used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
abodenounUS /əˈboʊd/
any address at which you dwell more than temporarily
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
advancesnounUS /ədˈvænsəz/
plural of “advance” — a movement forward
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
adventurousadjectiveUS /ædˈventʃərəs/
willing to undertake or seeking out new and daring enterprises
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
Alberic
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
one more of the same kind, or a different one
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
outward or visible aspect of a person or thing
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
past form of “appear” — give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
from a particular thing or place or position (“forth” is obsolete)
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
beholdingnounUS /bɪˈhoʊldɪŋ/
perception by means of the eyes
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
beingauxiliary verbUS /ˈbiːɪŋ/
the -ing form of “be”
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
belowprepositionUS /bɪˈloʊ/
at or to a lower level than something
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
being of the achromatic color of maximum darkness; having little or no hue owing to absorption of almost all incident light
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
a woman who has recently been married
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
showing who or what does the action
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
inflected form of “come” — move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
past form of “cease” — put an end to a state or an activity
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
definite but not specified or identified
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
cleftnounUS /kleft/
a split or indentation in something (as the palate or chin)
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
DasnounUS /dæs/
any of several small ungulate mammals of Africa and Asia with rodent-like incisors and feet with hooflike toes
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
relatively deep or strong; affecting one deeply
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
(plural) the deepest and most remote part
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
the feeling that accompanies an unsatisfied state
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
duskyadjective
lighted by or as if by twilight
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
eageradjectiveUS /ˈiːɡər/
having or showing keen interest or intense desire or impatient expectancy
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
endeavoured
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
the latter part of the day (the period of decreasing daylight from late afternoon until nightfall)
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
at any time
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
drained of energy or effectiveness; extremely tired; completely exhausted
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
exploitsnounUS /ˈeksplɔɪts/
plural of “exploit” — a notable achievement
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
marked by extreme and violent energy
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
(usually followed by “with” or used as a combining form) generously supplied with
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
firstadjectiveUS /fɜːrst/
preceding all others in time or space or degree
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
Flosshildr
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
set up or found
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
recently made, produced, or harvested
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
characteristic of or befitting a friend
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
gambols
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
past form of “gaze” — look at with fixed eyes
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
gnomenounUS /noʊm/
a legendary creature resembling a tiny old man; lives in the depths of the earth and guards buried treasure
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
gnomesnounUS /noʊmz/
plural of “gnome” — a legendary creature resembling a tiny old man; lives in the depths of the earth and guards buried treasure
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
hold firmly
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
relatively large in size or number or extent; larger than others of its kind
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
greetingnounUS /ˈɡriːtɪŋ/
(usually plural) an acknowledgment or expression of good will (especially on meeting)
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
a person who keeps watch over something or someone
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
hideousadjectiveUS /ˈhɪdiəs/
grossly offensive to decency or morality; causing horror
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
used when the man or boy doing the action is also its object
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
hitheradverbUS /ˈhɪðər/
an old word meaning “to this place”
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
used to add a contrasting statement
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
incitedverbUS /ˌɪnˈsaɪtɪd/
past form of “incite” — give an incentive for action
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
ingratiateverbUS /ˌɪŋˈɡreɪʃieɪt/
gain favor with somebody by deliberate efforts
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
immediately past
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
showing or feeling mirth or pleasure or happiness
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
indicating the most important performer or role
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
of comparatively little physical weight or density
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
prolonged unfulfilled desire or need
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
appealing to the emotions as well as the eye
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
merrilyadverbUS /ˈmerəli/
in a joyous manner
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
the location of something surrounded by other things
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
having or showing great strength or force or intensity
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
Nibelheim
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
Nibelungnoun
(German mythology) a companion or follower of Siegfried
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
not any; not one
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
in the historical present; at this point in the narration of a series of past events
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
nymphsnounUS /nɪmfs/
plural of “nymph” — (classical mythology) a minor nature goddess usually depicted as a beautiful maiden
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
used to mean any person in general, including the speaker
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
have as an attribute, knowledge, or skill
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
to a degree (not used with a negative)
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
Rheingold
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
RhinenounUS /raɪn/
United States parapsychologist (1895-1980)
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
RHINEGOLD
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
a large natural stream of water (larger than a creek)
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
take something away by force or without the consent of the owner
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
a lump or mass of hard consolidated mineral matter
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
plural of “rock” — a lump or mass of hard consolidated mineral matter
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
rockyadjectiveUS /ˈrɑːki/
abounding in rocks or stones
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
scornedadjectiveUS /skɔːrnd/
treated with dislike or contempt
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
seizeverbUS /siːz/
take hold of; grab
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
sinceprepositionUS /sɪns/
from a time in the past until now
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
that is looked for
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
the vital principle or animating force within living things
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
anyone who does not belong in the environment in which they are found
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
happening unexpectedly
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
the astonishment you feel when something totally unexpected happens to you
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
swamverbUS /swæm/
inflected form of “swim” — travel through water
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
swimmingnounUS /ˈswɪmɪŋ/
the act of swimming
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
any piece of work that is undertaken or attempted
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
tauntsnounUS /tɔːnts/
plural of “taunt” — aggravation by deriding or mocking or criticizing
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
teasingnounUS /ˈtiːzɪŋ/
the act of harassing someone playfully or maliciously (especially by ridicule); provoking someone with persistent annoyances
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
belonging to the people or things already mentioned
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
the people or things already mentioned, as the object
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
thitheradverbUS /ˈðɪθɜːr/
an old word meaning “to that place”
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
in spite of the fact that
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one and one
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
accumulated wealth in the form of money or jewels etc.
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
tested and proved useful or correct
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
twilightnounUS /ˈtwaɪlaɪt/
the time of day immediately following sunset
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
displeasing to the senses
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
undergroundadjectiveUS /ˈʌndərɡraʊnd/
under the level of the ground
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
untilprepositionUS /ənˈtɪl/
up to a particular time
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/
a formal word for “on”
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
upwardsadverbUS /ˈʌpwərdz/
spatially or metaphorically from a lower to a higher position
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
utteringverbUS /ˈʌtərɪŋ/
-ing form of “utter” — articulate; either verbally or with a cry, shout, or noise
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
vainlyadverbUS /ˈveɪnli/
to no avail
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
someone who visits
From this reading This evening, however, a visitor came to them at last; and suddenly the Rhine nymphs ceased their gambols in great surprise, on beholding a stranger in their midst.
past form of “wander” — move about aimlessly or without any destination, often in search of food or employment
From this reading From a deep cleft in the rocks below a hideous black gnome had appeared; for Alberic the Nibelung, being of an adventurous spirit, had wandered upwards from Nibelheim, the underground abode of the gnomes, eager for fresh exploits.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
water-maidens
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
water-nymphs
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
Wellgunda
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/
the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
at the time that
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
marked by extreme lack of restraint or control
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
in the company of; together with
From this reading As he now gazed upon the lovely Rhine nymphs, he was suddenly filled with a longing desire to possess one of them as a bride, and uttering a friendly greeting, he endeavoured to ingratiate himself with them.
inside; before a period of time has passed
From this reading The water-maidens, however, scorned his advances, laughing at his ugly appearance; and when, incited by the fierce desire within him, he vainly tried to seize first one and then another in his grasp, they swam away merrily, leading him on with teasing taunts from rock to rock, until he was quite exhausted.
Woglinda
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading THE RHINEGOLD (_Das Rheingold_) In the rocky depths of the wild Rhine river three lovely water-nymphs--Flosshildr, Woglinda, and Wellgunda--were merrily swimming hither and thither one dusky twilight; for though it was their duty to guard a certain mighty treasure, they found their task a light one, since no one had ever sought to rob them of it.
