Chapter VI

used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

having companions or an escort

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

anew

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

a person or thing that is a resource that helps make something easier or possible to do

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

past form of “allow” — make it possible through a specific action or lack of action for something to happen

From this reading As soon as quiet was restored every one went within-doors to find Shawe, who was resting under the strictest orders not to move, and who was allowed to remain quiet no longer.

in spite of the fact that

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

at all times; all the time and on every occasion

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

surrounded by; in the middle of a group

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together

From this reading CHRISTMAS DAY The day was several hours older when Humphrey and Elisabeth Shawe started for Thornby’s camp.

surrounding, or on every side of, something

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

at the same time that; because; in the way that

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

from a particular thing or place or position (“forth” is obsolete)

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

for the reason that

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

earlier than; in front of

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

processing that involves blowing a gas

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

the act of breaking something

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

temporary living quarters specially built by the army for soldiers

From this reading CHRISTMAS DAY The day was several hours older when Humphrey and Elisabeth Shawe started for Thornby’s camp.

period extending from Dec. 24 to Jan. 6

From this reading CHRISTMAS DAY The day was several hours older when Humphrey and Elisabeth Shawe started for Thornby’s camp.

a tract of land with few or no trees in the middle of a wooded area

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

demanding attention

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis

From this reading CHRISTMAS DAY The day was several hours older when Humphrey and Elisabeth Shawe started for Thornby’s camp.

past form of “die” — pass from physical life and lose all bodily attributes and functions necessary to sustain life

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

made less hopeful or enthusiastic

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

a swinging or sliding barrier that will close the entrance to a room or building or vehicle

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

having or showing keen interest or intense desire or impatient expectancy

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

plural of “effort” — earnest and conscientious activity intended to do or accomplish something

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading CHRISTMAS DAY The day was several hours older when Humphrey and Elisabeth Shawe started for Thornby’s camp.

a widespread outbreak of an infectious disease; many people are infected at the same time

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

all the members of a group, with none left out

From this reading As soon as quiet was restored every one went within-doors to find Shawe, who was resting under the strictest orders not to move, and who was allowed to remain quiet no longer.

considered likely or probable to happen or arrive

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

the front of the human head from the forehead to the chin and ear to ear

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

come upon, as if by accident; meet with

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading CHRISTMAS DAY The day was several hours older when Humphrey and Elisabeth Shawe started for Thornby’s camp.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

producing no result or effect

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

a state of partial or total darkness

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

relatively large in size or number or extent; larger than others of its kind

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

inflected form of “grow” — pass into a condition gradually, take on a specific property or attribute; become

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

past form of “happen” — come to pass

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

enjoying or showing or marked by joy or pleasure

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

a period of time assigned for work

From this reading CHRISTMAS DAY The day was several hours older when Humphrey and Elisabeth Shawe started for Thornby’s camp.

a dwelling that serves as living quarters for one or more families

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

used to add a contrasting statement

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading CHRISTMAS DAY The day was several hours older when Humphrey and Elisabeth Shawe started for Thornby’s camp.

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

inside something, or within a place, period, or state

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

an acute febrile highly contagious viral disease

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

plural of “inhabitant” — a person who inhabits a particular place

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

in place of, or as an alternative to

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

full of or producing joy

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

inflected form of “know” — be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

bestow a quality on

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

prefer or wish to do something

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

primarily temporal sense; being or indicating a relatively great or greater than average duration or passage of time or a duration as specified

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

for more time

From this reading As soon as quiet was restored every one went within-doors to find Shawe, who was resting under the strictest orders not to move, and who was allowed to remain quiet no longer.

the act of directing the eyes toward something and perceiving it visually

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

having or showing great strength or force or intensity

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically

From this reading As soon as quiet was restored every one went within-doors to find Shawe, who was resting under the strictest orders not to move, and who was allowed to remain quiet no longer.

used to say something is necessary, or almost certainly true

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

information about recent and important events

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

not any; not one

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

plural of “nose” — the organ of smell and entrance to the respiratory tract; the prominent part of the face of man or other mammals

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading As soon as quiet was restored every one went within-doors to find Shawe, who was resting under the strictest orders not to move, and who was allowed to remain quiet no longer.

the property possessed by a sum or total or indefinite quantity of units or individuals

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

(used especially of persons) having lived for a relatively long time or attained a specific age

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

advanced in years; (“aged” is pronounced as two syllables)

From this reading CHRISTMAS DAY The day was several hours older when Humphrey and Elisabeth Shawe started for Thornby’s camp.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

plural of “order” — (often plural) a command given by a superior (e.g., a military or law enforcement officer) that must be obeyed

From this reading As soon as quiet was restored every one went within-doors to find Shawe, who was resting under the strictest orders not to move, and who was allowed to remain quiet no longer.

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

deserving or inciting pity

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

be shown or be found to be

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

characterized by an absence or near absence of agitation or activity

From this reading As soon as quiet was restored every one went within-doors to find Shawe, who was resting under the strictest orders not to move, and who was allowed to remain quiet no longer.

in a radiant manner

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

characterized by violent and forceful activity or movement; very intense

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

inflected form of “run” — move fast by using one's feet, with one foot off the ground at any given time

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

reach a destination, either real or abstract

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

successfully completed or brought to an end

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

stay the same; remain in a certain state

From this reading As soon as quiet was restored every one went within-doors to find Shawe, who was resting under the strictest orders not to move, and who was allowed to remain quiet no longer.

-ing form of “rest” — not move; be in a resting position

From this reading As soon as quiet was restored every one went within-doors to find Shawe, who was resting under the strictest orders not to move, and who was allowed to remain quiet no longer.

past form of “restore” — return to its original or usable and functioning condition

From this reading As soon as quiet was restored every one went within-doors to find Shawe, who was resting under the strictest orders not to move, and who was allowed to remain quiet no longer.

past form of “return” — go or come back to place, condition, or activity where one has been before

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

try to locate or discover, or try to establish the existence of

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

past form of “seem” — give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

(used with count nouns) of an indefinite number more than 2 or 3 but not many

From this reading CHRISTMAS DAY The day was several hours older when Humphrey and Elisabeth Shawe started for Thornby’s camp.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading CHRISTMAS DAY The day was several hours older when Humphrey and Elisabeth Shawe started for Thornby’s camp.

utter in a loud voice; talk in a loud voice (usually denoting characteristic manner of speaking)

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

the atmosphere and outer space as viewed from the earth

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

in the near future

From this reading As soon as quiet was restored every one went within-doors to find Shawe, who was resting under the strictest orders not to move, and who was allowed to remain quiet no longer.

past form of “start” — take the first step or steps in carrying out an action

From this reading CHRISTMAS DAY The day was several hours older when Humphrey and Elisabeth Shawe started for Thornby’s camp.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

(of a nose) blocked

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

superlative of “strict” — rigidly accurate; allowing no deviation from a standard

From this reading As soon as quiet was restored every one went within-doors to find Shawe, who was resting under the strictest orders not to move, and who was allowed to remain quiet no longer.

happening unexpectedly

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind

From this reading CHRISTMAS DAY The day was several hours older when Humphrey and Elisabeth Shawe started for Thornby’s camp.

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

the people or things already mentioned, as the object

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

in or at that place or location

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading CHRISTMAS DAY The day was several hours older when Humphrey and Elisabeth Shawe started for Thornby’s camp.

plural of “throat” — the passage to the stomach and lungs; in the front part of the neck below the chin and above the collarbone

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

an instance or single occasion for some event

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

in the direction of

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

an urban area with a fixed boundary that is smaller than a city

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

producing no result or effect

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

the brother of your father or mother; the husband of your aunt

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

below or beneath something; less than

From this reading As soon as quiet was restored every one went within-doors to find Shawe, who was resting under the strictest orders not to move, and who was allowed to remain quiet no longer.

up to a particular time

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading CHRISTMAS DAY The day was several hours older when Humphrey and Elisabeth Shawe started for Thornby’s camp.

exhaust or get tired through overuse or great strain or stress

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

inflected form of “go” — change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

used to ask for information about something

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

at the time that

From this reading CHRISTMAS DAY The day was several hours older when Humphrey and Elisabeth Shawe started for Thornby’s camp.

during the time that

From this reading Then a mighty shout went up from the sleighs,--no one knew who started it, but it grew and grew, until it seemed to reach the sky, and when it died away--it was a long while before that happened, because it was always breaking out again--there was a great blowing of noses and clearing of throats, as if an epidemic of influenza was raging among them all.

which person or people

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Before that time, however, poor Uncle Steven, weary and disheartened and looking suddenly like an old, old man, had returned from his futile search in and around Wistar, accompanied by a number of the inhabitants of the little town who were eager to lend what aid they could, although they realized how unavailing their efforts must prove.

in the company of; together with

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading As soon as quiet was restored every one went within-doors to find Shawe, who was resting under the strictest orders not to move, and who was allowed to remain quiet no longer.

an adult female person (as opposed to a man)

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

covered with or as if with clothes or a wrap or cloak

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.

(used of living things especially persons) in an early period of life or development or growth

From this reading They had expected to find the house wrapped in gloom, but instead, as they stopped at its door, a young woman with a radiantly happy face ran toward them crying out the joyful news.