Chapter VI · Chapter 6

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

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

on the subject of; concerning

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

later than; following

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

(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 _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

the form of “be” used with “I”

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

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

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

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

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

plural of “apricot” — Asian tree having clusters of usually white blossoms and edible fruit resembling the peach

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

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

From this reading But only mark what calamities may fall upon earwigs before they are aware of them!

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

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

the sister of your father or mother; the wife of your uncle

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

(sometimes followed by “of”) having or showing knowledge or understanding or realization or perception

From this reading But only mark what calamities may fall upon earwigs before they are aware of them!

tough protective covering of the woody stems and roots of trees and other woody plants

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

beaklike mouth of animals other than birds (e.g., turtles)

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

the past participle of “be”

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

earlier than; in front of

From this reading But only mark what calamities may fall upon earwigs before they are aware of them!

warm-blooded egg-laying vertebrates characterized by feathers and forelimbs modified as wings

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading But only mark what calamities may fall upon earwigs before they are aware of them!

showing who or what does the action

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

a degree on the centigrade scale of temperature

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

plural of “calamity” — an event resulting in great loss and misfortune

From this reading But only mark what calamities may fall upon earwigs before they are aware of them!

an event resulting in great loss and misfortune

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

assign a specified (usually proper) proper name to

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

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

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

to be able to, or to be allowed to

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

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

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

the work of providing treatment for or attending to someone or something

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

plural of “carry” — the act of carrying something

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

plural of “child” — a young person of either sex

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

free from dirt or impurities; or having clean habits

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

a state of being relaxed and feeling no pain

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

providing or experiencing physical well-being or relief (“comfy” is informal)

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

plural of “complaint” — an often persistent bodily disorder or disease; a cause for complaining

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

(usually plural) a polite expression of desire for someone's welfare

From this reading Yours, with compliments, as usual.

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

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

overlaid or spread or topped with or enclosed within something; sometimes used as a combining form

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

become fractured; break or crack on the surface only

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

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

From this reading I am surrounded by woodpeckers, jackdaws, magpies, and other devouring creatures, and think myself very unfortunate.

inflected form of “creep” — move slowly; in the case of people or animals with the body near the ground

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

placed crosswise

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

the condition of being susceptible to harm or injury

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

take upon oneself; act presumptuously, without permission

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

dearly loved

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

the event of dying or departure from life

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

greatly pleasing or entertaining

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

-ing form of “deplore” — express strong disapproval of

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

a small fast lightly armored but heavily armed warship

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

past form of “devour” — destroy completely

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

(often followed by “for”) ardently or excessively desirous

From this reading I am surrounded by woodpeckers, jackdaws, magpies, and other devouring creatures, and think myself very unfortunate.

a feeling of dissatisfaction that results when your expectations are not realized

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

facing or experiencing financial trouble or difficulty

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

being or moving lower in position or less in some value

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

free from liquid or moisture; lacking natural or normal moisture or depleted of water; or no longer wet

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

any of numerous insects of the order Dermaptera having elongate bodies and slender many-jointed antennae and a pair of large pincers at the rear of the abdomen

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

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

From this reading But only mark what calamities may fall upon earwigs before they are aware of them!

any of various trees of the genus Ulmus: important timber or shade trees

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

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

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

having escaped, especially from confinement

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

descend in free fall under the influence of gravity

From this reading But only mark what calamities may fall upon earwigs before they are aware of them!

a social unit living together

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

to a considerable degree; very much

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

quickly or rapidly (often used as a combining form)

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

a ceremonial dinner party for many people

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

without good sense or judgment

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

the ripened reproductive body of a seed plant

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

plural of “fruit” — the ripened reproductive body of a seed plant

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

having desirable or positive qualities especially those suitable for a thing specified

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

inflected form of “get” — come into the possession of something concrete or abstract

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

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

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

the native habitat or home of an animal or plant

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

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

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

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

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

the -ing form of “have”

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

of comparatively great physical weight or density

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

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

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

greater than normal in degree or intensity or amount

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

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

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

plural of “hole” — an opening into or through something

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

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

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

unusually great in size or amount or degree or especially extent or scope

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

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

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

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

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

moving to the inside of something

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

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

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

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

From this reading I am surrounded by woodpeckers, jackdaws, magpies, and other devouring creatures, and think myself very unfortunate.

and nothing more

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

cause to continue in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g., “keep clean”

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

above average in size or number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

large or big relative to something else

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

a characteristic state or mode of living

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

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

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

past form of “look” — perceive with attention; direct one's gaze towards

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

something that is lost

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

plural of “magpie” — long-tailed black-and-white crow that utters a raucous chattering call

From this reading I am surrounded by woodpeckers, jackdaws, magpies, and other devouring creatures, and think myself very unfortunate.

engage in

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

attach a tag or label to

From this reading But only mark what calamities may fall upon earwigs before they are aware of them!

used to say something is possible, or to give permission

From this reading But only mark what calamities may fall upon earwigs before they are aware of them!

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

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

mean or intend to express or convey

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

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

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

(comparative of “much” used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning greater in size or amount or extent or degree

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

used to form the superlative

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

belonging to the person speaking

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

used when the speaker is also the object of the action

From this reading I am surrounded by woodpeckers, jackdaws, magpies, and other devouring creatures, and think myself very unfortunate.

near in time or place or relationship

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

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

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

not ever; at no time in the past or future

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

not any; not one

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

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

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

and nothing more

From this reading But only mark what calamities may fall upon earwigs before they are aware of them!

To move from a closed position.

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading I am surrounded by woodpeckers, jackdaws, magpies, and other devouring creatures, and think myself very unfortunate.

belonging to the speaker and others

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

have ownership or possession of

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

something determined in relation to something that includes it

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

to a distinctly greater extent or degree than is common

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

a course of conduct

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

plural of “peach” — cultivated in temperate regions

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

by chance

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

a legal document giving official permission to do something

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

situated in a particular spot or position

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

deserving or inciting pity

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

move down on as if in an attack

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

showing possibility of achievement or excellence

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

determined

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

coming to full development; becoming mature

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

a protective covering that covers or forms the top of a building

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

(of fluids) moving or issuing in a stream

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

free from danger or the risk of harm

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

express in words

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

get by special effort

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

used with I and we for the future, or to offer and suggest

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

-ing form of “shelter” — provide shelter for

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

move so that an opening or passage is obstructed; make shut

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

a place within a region identified relative to a center or reference location

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

the general state of things; the combination of circumstances at a given time

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

characterized by good substantial quality

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

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

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

a state of extreme hunger resulting from lack of essential nutrients over a prolonged period

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

not in physical motion

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

Maintained an upright posture.

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

bright and pleasant; promoting a feeling of cheer

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

confined on all sides

From this reading I am surrounded by woodpeckers, jackdaws, magpies, and other devouring creatures, and think myself very unfortunate.

carry out

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

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

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

the people or things already mentioned, as the object

From this reading But only mark what calamities may fall upon earwigs before they are aware of them!

subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

in or at that place or location

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

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

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

any movable possession (especially articles of clothing)

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

judge or regard; look upon; judge

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

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

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

a sharp hand gesture (resembling a blow)

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

(used to introduce a logical conclusion) from that fact or reason or as a result

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

the wood of trees cut and prepared for use as building material

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

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

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

put down or press the foot, place the foot

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

a tall perennial woody plant having a main trunk and branches forming a distinct elevated crown; includes both gymnosperms and angiosperms

From this reading For my own part, I crept into a crack in the solid tree, where I have thus far escaped; but as this bird can make large holes into solid timber, I am by no means safe.

below or beneath something; less than

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

not favored by fortune; marked or accompanied by or resulting in ill fortune

From this reading I am surrounded by woodpeckers, jackdaws, magpies, and other devouring creatures, and think myself very unfortunate.

a formal word for “on”

From this reading But only mark what calamities may fall upon earwigs before they are aware of them!

occurring or encountered or experienced or observed frequently or in accordance with regular practice or procedure

From this reading Yours, with compliments, as usual.

precisely as stated

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

an architectural partition with a height and length greater than its thickness; used to divide or enclose an area or to support another structure

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

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

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

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

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

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

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

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

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

used to ask for information about something

From this reading But only mark what calamities may fall upon earwigs before they are aware of them!

at the time that

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

in or at the place that

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

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

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

during the time that

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

a Caucasian

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

including all components without exception; being one unit or constituting the full amount or extent or duration; complete

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

used to talk about the future, or about willingness

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.

in the company of; together with

From this reading This calamity is the more heavy, as it carries with it a great disappointment; for very near our habitation was a high wall, the sunny side of which was covered with the most delicious fruits--peaches, apricots, nectarines, &c.--all just then ripening; and I thought of having such a feast with my children as I had never enjoyed in my life.

bird with strong claws and a stiff tail adapted for climbing and a hard chisel-like bill for boring into wood for insects

From this reading I had just got my family about me, all white, clean, and promising children, when pounce came down that bird they call a woodpecker; when, thrusting his huge beak under the bark where we lay, down went our whole sheltering roof! and my children, poor things, running, as they thought, from danger, were devoured as fast as the destroyer could open his beak and shut it.

plural of “woodpecker” — bird with strong claws and a stiff tail adapted for climbing and a hard chisel-like bill for boring into wood for insects

From this reading I am surrounded by woodpeckers, jackdaws, magpies, and other devouring creatures, and think myself very unfortunate.

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

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

but in spite of that

From this reading Yet, perhaps, if I could know the situation of some larger creatures--I mean particularly such as would tread me to death if I crossed their path--they may have complaints to make as well as I.

the person or people being spoken to

From this reading _FROM AN EARWIG, DEPLORING THE LOSS OF ALL HER CHILDREN._ DEAR AUNT, You cannot think how distressed I have been, and still am; for, under the bark of a large elm, which, I dare say, has stood there a great while, I had placed my whole family, where they were dry, comfortable, and, as I foolishly thought, secure.

the one or ones belonging to the person spoken to

From this reading Yours, with compliments, as usual.

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

From this reading Take care of yourself, my good old aunt, and I shall keep in my hiding-place as long as starvation will permit, And, after all, perhaps the fruit was not so delicious as it looked--I am resolved to think so, just to comfort myself.