Chapter V · Chapter 5

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

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.

on the subject of; concerning

From this reading If they were relatives, they would be easy of explanation; but the only direct information you ever get about them is that they are not.

the mental attitude that something is believable and should be accepted as true

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

generally approved or compelling recognition

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

(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 OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

(of actions or states) slightly short of or not quite accomplished; all but

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

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

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

one or some or every or all without specification

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

any thing at all

From this reading Nobody ever called him anything but "the Major," and he would as soon have asked "Major what?" as called in question the title of the King of Hearts instead of playing him on the Queen, and taking the trick.

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

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

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

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

past form of “ask” — make a request or demand for something to somebody

From this reading Nobody ever called him anything but "the Major," and he would as soon have asked "Major what?" as called in question the title of the King of Hearts instead of playing him on the Queen, and taking the trick.

third-person singular of “ask” — make a request or demand for something to somebody

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

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

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

plural of “avenue” — a line of approach

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.

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

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

a solid piece of something (usually having flat rectangular sides)

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.

fighting with the fists

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading If they were relatives, they would be easy of explanation; but the only direct information you ever get about them is that they are not.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

past form of “call” — assign a specified (usually proper) proper name to

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

plural of “catch” — a drawback or difficulty that is not readily evident

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

to a complete degree or to the full or entire extent (“whole” is often used informally for “wholly”)

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

education imparted in a series of lessons or meetings

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.

plural of “creature” — a living organism characterized by voluntary movement

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

a flow of electricity through a conductor

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

dearly loved

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

identifying word or words by which someone or something is called and classified or distinguished from others

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

command with authority

From this reading If they were relatives, they would be easy of explanation; but the only direct information you ever get about them is that they are not.

posing no difficulty; requiring little effort

From this reading If they were relatives, they would be easy of explanation; but the only direct information you ever get about them is that they are not.

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

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

at any time

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

past form of “explain” — make plain and comprehensible

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

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

From this reading If they were relatives, they would be easy of explanation; but the only direct information you ever get about them is that they are not.

a social unit living together

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

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

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

come upon, as if by accident; meet with

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

in a forcible manner

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

someone whose style is out of fashion

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

plural of “fossil” — someone whose style is out of fashion

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

(used as intensives reflecting the speaker's attitude) it is sincerely the case that

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

come into the possession of something concrete or abstract

From this reading If they were relatives, they would be easy of explanation; but the only direct information you ever get about them is that they are not.

acknowledged as a supposition

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading Nobody ever called him anything but "the Major," and he would as soon have asked "Major what?" as called in question the title of the King of Hearts instead of playing him on the Queen, and taking the trick.

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

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

a form of whist in which players avoid winning tricks containing hearts or the queen of spades

From this reading Nobody ever called him anything but "the Major," and he would as soon have asked "Major what?" as called in question the title of the King of Hearts instead of playing him on the Queen, and taking the trick.

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

From this reading Nobody ever called him anything but "the Major," and he would as soon have asked "Major what?" as called in question the title of the King of Hearts instead of playing him on the Queen, and taking the trick.

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

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading If they were relatives, they would be easy of explanation; but the only direct information you ever get about them is that they are not.

an iconic mental representation

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.

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

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

the pathological state resulting from the invasion of the body by pathogenic microorganisms

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

a message received and understood

From this reading If they were relatives, they would be easy of explanation; but the only direct information you ever get about them is that they are not.

in place of, or as an alternative to

From this reading Nobody ever called him anything but "the Major," and he would as soon have asked "Major what?" as called in question the title of the King of Hearts instead of playing him on the Queen, and taking the trick.

an inquiry into unfamiliar or questionable activities

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.

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

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

a male sovereign; ruler of a kingdom

From this reading Nobody ever called him anything but "the Major," and he would as soon have asked "Major what?" as called in question the title of the King of Hearts instead of playing him on the Queen, and taking the trick.

a small volcanic island in Indonesia between Java and Sumatra; its violent eruption in 1883 was the greatest in recorded history

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

at risk of or subject to experiencing something usually unpleasant

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

prefer or wish to do something

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.

large gregarious predatory feline of Africa and India having a tawny coat with a shaggy mane in the male

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.

of greater importance or stature or rank

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

a vaguely specified concern

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.

used to say something is possible, or to give permission

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

come together

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

plural of “member” — one of the persons who compose a social group (especially individuals who have joined and participate in a group organization)

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

fail to perceive or to catch with the senses or the mind

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

a particular point in time

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

the time period between dawn and noon

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

assign a specified (usually proper) proper name to

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

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

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

not any; not one

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

no person; not anyone

From this reading Nobody ever called him anything but "the Major," and he would as soon have asked "Major what?" as called in question the title of the King of Hearts instead of playing him on the Queen, and taking the trick.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading If they were relatives, they would be easy of explanation; but the only direct information you ever get about them is that they are not.

paying close attention especially to details

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

plural of “occurrence” — an event that happens

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

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

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

and nothing more

From this reading If they were relatives, they would be easy of explanation; but the only direct information you ever get about them is that they are not.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

the act of playing a musical instrument

From this reading Nobody ever called him anything but "the Major," and he would as soon have asked "Major what?" as called in question the title of the King of Hearts instead of playing him on the Queen, and taking the trick.

in the near future

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.

the only fertile female in a colony of social insects such as bees and ants and termites; its function is to lay eggs

From this reading Nobody ever called him anything but "the Major," and he would as soon have asked "Major what?" as called in question the title of the King of Hearts instead of playing him on the Queen, and taking the trick.

challenge the accuracy, probity, or propriety of

From this reading Nobody ever called him anything but "the Major," and he would as soon have asked "Major what?" as called in question the title of the King of Hearts instead of playing him on the Queen, and taking the trick.

being or occurring in fact or actuality; having verified existence; not illusory

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

inflected form of “refer” — make reference to

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

plural of “relative” — a person related by blood or marriage

From this reading If they were relatives, they would be easy of explanation; but the only direct information you ever get about them is that they are not.

witty remark

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

third-person singular of “seem” — give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

in the near future

From this reading Nobody ever called him anything but "the Major," and he would as soon have asked "Major what?" as called in question the title of the King of Hearts instead of playing him on the Queen, and taking the trick.

walk heavily

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.

not in physical motion

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

a message that tells the particulars of an act or occurrence or course of events; presented in writing or drama or cinema or as a radio or television program

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

understood in a certain way; made sense of

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

the act of someone who picks up or takes something

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

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

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

the people or things already mentioned, as the object

From this reading If they were relatives, they would be easy of explanation; but the only direct information you ever get about them is that they are not.

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

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

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

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.

the plural of “that”: the people or things further away, or already known

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

a heading that names a statute or legislative bill; may give a brief summary of the matters it deals with

From this reading Nobody ever called him anything but "the Major," and he would as soon have asked "Major what?" as called in question the title of the King of Hearts instead of playing him on the Queen, and taking the trick.

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

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

a cunning or deceitful action or device

From this reading Nobody ever called him anything but "the Major," and he would as soon have asked "Major what?" as called in question the title of the King of Hearts instead of playing him on the Queen, and taking the trick.

lacking or indicating lack of confidence or assurance

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

below or beneath something; less than

From this reading Fenwick accepted "the Major," as the old fossil was called, so frankly and completely under that name that he was still uncertain about his real designation at the current moment of the story.

an imaginary creature represented as a white horse with a long horn growing from its forehead

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.

Mexican revolutionary leader (1877-1923)

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

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

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

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

From this reading If they were relatives, they would be easy of explanation; but the only direct information you ever get about them is that they are not.

used to ask for information about something

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

which person or people

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

the form of “who” used as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

in the company of; together with

From this reading OF BOXING DAY MORNING AT KRAKATOA VILLA, AND WHAT OBSERVANT CREATURES FOSSILS ARE The "dear old fossil" referred to by Miss Sally was one of those occurrences--auxiliaries or encumbrances, as may be--whom one is liable to meet with in almost any family, who are so forcibly taken for granted by all its members that the infection of their acceptance catches on, and no new-comer ever asks that they should be explained.

used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past

From this reading If they were relatives, they would be easy of explanation; but the only direct information you ever get about them is that they are not.

the person or people being spoken to

From this reading If they were relatives, they would be easy of explanation; but the only direct information you ever get about them is that they are not.

used when the person spoken to is also the object of the action

From this reading This seems to block all avenues of investigation, and presently you find yourself taking them as a matter of course, like the Lion and Unicorn, or the image on a stamp.