Chapter XI · A Great Man's Schoolfellow

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

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

any specific behavior

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

a sensitivity that is keen and highly developed

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

(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 Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

the form of “be” used with “I”

From this reading “Beattie tells me that this attack has inserted another life in my lease,” said he; “and I am glad of it.

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

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

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

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

one more of the same kind, or a different one

From this reading “Beattie tells me that this attack has inserted another life in my lease,” said he; “and I am glad of it.

one or some or every or all without specification

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

plural of “approach” — ideas or actions intended to deal with a problem or situation

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

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

From this reading We are surely not destined to a perpetuity of Pendletons and Fitzgibbons?”

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

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

(military) an offensive against an enemy (using weapons)

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

plural of “attack” — (military) an offensive against an enemy (using weapons)

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

a nobleman (in various countries) of varying rank

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses

From this reading It is right that the men who speculated on my death should be reminded of the uncertainty of life by the negative proof.

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

From this reading “Beattie tells me that this attack has inserted another life in my lease,” said he; “and I am glad of it.

the past participle of “be”

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

earlier than; in front of

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

a structure that allows people or vehicles to cross an obstacle such as a river or canal or railway etc.

From this reading It is well, too, that there should be men long-lived enough to bridge over periods of mediocrity, and connect the triumphs of the past with the coming glories of the future.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

inflected form of “come” — move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

events that provide the generative force that is the origin of something

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

a person who is in charge

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

the act of drawing spatially closer to something

From this reading It is well, too, that there should be men long-lived enough to bridge over periods of mediocrity, and connect the triumphs of the past with the coming glories of the future.

connect, fasten, or put together two or more pieces

From this reading It is well, too, that there should be men long-lived enough to bridge over periods of mediocrity, and connect the triumphs of the past with the coming glories of the future.

the event of dying or departure from life

From this reading It is right that the men who speculated on my death should be reminded of the uncertainty of life by the negative proof.

a position on a scale of intensity or amount or quality

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

headed or intending to head in a certain direction; often used as a combining form as in “college-bound students”

From this reading We are surely not destined to a perpetuity of Pendletons and Fitzgibbons?”

impaired by diminution

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

past form of “enjoy” — derive or receive pleasure from; get enjoyment from; take pleasure in

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

an adequate quantity; a quantity that is large enough to achieve a purpose

From this reading It is well, too, that there should be men long-lived enough to bridge over periods of mediocrity, and connect the triumphs of the past with the coming glories of the future.

a statement that makes something comprehensible by describing the relevant structure or operation or circumstances etc.

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

(of an idea or story) so exaggerated or ludicrous as to be improbable

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

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

From this reading We are surely not destined to a perpetuity of Pendletons and Fitzgibbons?”

plural of “foe” — an armed adversary (especially a member of an opposing military force)

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

plural of “friend” — a person you know well and regard with affection and trust

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

yet to be or coming

From this reading It is well, too, that there should be men long-lived enough to bridge over periods of mediocrity, and connect the triumphs of the past with the coming glories of the future.

showing or causing joy and pleasure; especially made happy

From this reading “Beattie tells me that this attack has inserted another life in my lease,” said he; “and I am glad of it.

plural of “glory” — a state of high honor

From this reading It is well, too, that there should be men long-lived enough to bridge over periods of mediocrity, and connect the triumphs of the past with the coming glories of the future.

in a gradual manner

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

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

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

the form of “have” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading “Beattie tells me that this attack has inserted another life in my lease,” said he; “and I am glad of it.

a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

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

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb

From this reading “Beattie tells me that this attack has inserted another life in my lease,” said he; “and I am glad of it.

impairment of normal physiological function affecting part or all of an organism

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

diminished in strength, quality, or utility

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

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

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

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

From this reading “Beattie tells me that this attack has inserted another life in my lease,” said he; “and I am glad of it.

past form of “insert” — put or introduce into something

From this reading “Beattie tells me that this attack has inserted another life in my lease,” said he; “and I am glad of it.

marked by casual disrespect

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

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

From this reading It is right that the men who speculated on my death should be reminded of the uncertainty of life by the negative proof.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

property that is leased or rented out or let

From this reading “Beattie tells me that this attack has inserted another life in my lease,” said he; “and I am glad of it.

a characteristic state or mode of living

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

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 Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

existing for a long time

From this reading It is well, too, that there should be men long-lived enough to bridge over periods of mediocrity, and connect the triumphs of the past with the coming glories of the future.

possessive form of “man” — an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

a quantifier that can be used with count nouns and is often preceded by “as” or “too” or “so” or “that”; amounting to a large but indefinite number

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

the person speaking, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading “Beattie tells me that this attack has inserted another life in my lease,” said he; “and I am glad of it.

thing or person that acts to produce a particular effect or achieve an end

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

ordinariness as a consequence of being average and not outstanding

From this reading It is well, too, that there should be men long-lived enough to bridge over periods of mediocrity, and connect the triumphs of the past with the coming glories of the future.

the force of workers available

From this reading It is right that the men who speculated on my death should be reminded of the uncertainty of life by the negative proof.

past form of “menace” — pose a threat to; present a danger to

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

involving the mind or an intellectual process

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

belonging to the person speaking

From this reading “Beattie tells me that this attack has inserted another life in my lease,” said he; “and I am glad of it.

characterized by or displaying negation or denial or opposition or resistance; having no positive features

From this reading It is right that the men who speculated on my death should be reminded of the uncertainty of life by the negative proof.

plural of “newspaper” — a daily or weekly publication on folded sheets; contains news and articles and advertisements

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

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

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

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

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading It is right that the men who speculated on my death should be reminded of the uncertainty of life by the negative proof.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

above and across; more than

From this reading It is well, too, that there should be men long-lived enough to bridge over periods of mediocrity, and connect the triumphs of the past with the coming glories of the future.

the time that has elapsed

From this reading It is well, too, that there should be men long-lived enough to bridge over periods of mediocrity, and connect the triumphs of the past with the coming glories of the future.

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

From this reading We are surely not destined to a perpetuity of Pendletons and Fitzgibbons?”

plural of “period” — an amount of time

From this reading It is well, too, that there should be men long-lived enough to bridge over periods of mediocrity, and connect the triumphs of the past with the coming glories of the future.

the property of being perpetual (seemingly ceaseless)

From this reading We are surely not destined to a perpetuity of Pendletons and Fitzgibbons?”

involving or characteristic of politics or parties or politicians

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

any factual evidence that helps to establish the truth of something

From this reading It is right that the men who speculated on my death should be reminded of the uncertainty of life by the negative proof.

past form of “remind” — put in the mind of someone

From this reading It is right that the men who speculated on my death should be reminded of the uncertainty of life by the negative proof.

restored to a new condition

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

precisely, exactly

From this reading It is right that the men who speculated on my death should be reminded of the uncertainty of life by the negative proof.

being the one previously mentioned or spoken of

From this reading “Beattie tells me that this attack has inserted another life in my lease,” said he; “and I am glad of it.

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading It is right that the men who speculated on my death should be reminded of the uncertainty of life by the negative proof.

plural of “sign” — a perceptible indication of something not immediately apparent (as a visible clue that something has happened)

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

not moving quickly; taking a comparatively long time

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

(quantifier) used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

past form of “speculate” — to believe especially on uncertain or tentative grounds

From this reading It is right that the men who speculated on my death should be reminded of the uncertainty of life by the negative proof.

the property of being physically or mentally strong

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

past form of “suggest” — make a proposal, declare a plan for something

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

definitely or positively (“sure” is sometimes used informally for “surely”)

From this reading We are surely not destined to a perpetuity of Pendletons and Fitzgibbons?”

plural of “tell” — a Swiss patriot who lived in the early 14th century and who was renowned for his skill as an archer

From this reading “Beattie tells me that this attack has inserted another life in my lease,” said he; “and I am glad of it.

the term during which some position is held

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

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

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

in or at that place or location

From this reading It is well, too, that there should be men long-lived enough to bridge over periods of mediocrity, and connect the triumphs of the past with the coming glories of the future.

used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned

From this reading “Beattie tells me that this attack has inserted another life in my lease,” said he; “and I am glad of it.

caused to fall to the ground

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

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

From this reading It is well, too, that there should be men long-lived enough to bridge over periods of mediocrity, and connect the triumphs of the past with the coming glories of the future.

to a degree exceeding normal or proper limits

From this reading It is well, too, that there should be men long-lived enough to bridge over periods of mediocrity, and connect the triumphs of the past with the coming glories of the future.

plural of “triumph” — a successful ending of a struggle or contest

From this reading It is well, too, that there should be men long-lived enough to bridge over periods of mediocrity, and connect the triumphs of the past with the coming glories of the future.

being unsettled or in doubt or dependent on chance

From this reading It is right that the men who speculated on my death should be reminded of the uncertainty of life by the negative proof.

forceful exertion

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

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

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading We are surely not destined to a perpetuity of Pendletons and Fitzgibbons?”

(often used as a combining form) in a good or proper or satisfactory manner or to a high standard (“good” is a nonstandard dialectal variant for “well”)

From this reading It is well, too, that there should be men long-lived enough to bridge over periods of mediocrity, and connect the triumphs of the past with the coming glories of the future.

any or all of a kind, it does not matter which

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

used to introduce two or more possibilities

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

which person or people

From this reading It is right that the men who speculated on my death should be reminded of the uncertainty of life by the negative proof.

belonging to which person

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

in the company of; together with

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.

a late time of life

From this reading Whether it was that the Chief Baron had thrown off an attack which had long menaced him, and whose slow approaches had gradually impaired his strength and diminished his mental activity, or whether, as some of his “friends” suggested, that the old man's tenure of life had been renewed by the impertinences of the newspapers and the insolent attacks of political foes,--an explanation not by any means far-fetched,--whatever the cause, he came out of his illness with all the signs of renewed vigor, and with a degree of mental acuteness that he had not enjoyed for many years before.