Chapter VI

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

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

gotten through environmental forces

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

in actual fact

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

a mixture of gases (especially oxygen) required for breathing; the stuff that the wind consists of

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

(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 The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

in addition

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

providing enjoyment; pleasantly entertaining

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

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

From this reading The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

one more of the same kind, or a different one

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

react verbally

From this reading The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

any thing at all

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

clearly revealed to the mind or the senses or judgment

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

from appearances alone

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

outward or visible aspect of a person or thing

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

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

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

studies intended to provide general knowledge and intellectual skills (rather than occupational or professional skills)

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

large tough nonrigid bag filled with gas or heated air

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

a small piece or quantity of something

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

plural of “body” — the entire physical structure of an organism (an animal, plant, or human being)

From this reading The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

the lower side of anything

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

water containing salts

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

the property resulting from being or relating to the greater in number of two parts; the main part

From this reading The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

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

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

to be able to, or to be allowed to

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

a low-lying region in central France

From this reading The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

belonging to or participated in by a community as a whole; public

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

under normal conditions

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

past form of “compare” — examine and note the similarities or differences of

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

the act of examining resemblances

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

get the meaning of something

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

carefully weighed

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

without variation or change, in every case

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

-ing form of “contain” — include or contain; have as a component

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

in an accurate manner

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

education imparted in a series of lessons or meetings

From this reading The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

beyond or deviating from the usual or expected

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

having the form of a cylinder

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

English chemist who was a pioneer in electrochemistry and who used it to isolate elements sodium and potassium and barium and boron and calcium and magnesium and chlorine (1778-1829)

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

superlative of “deep” — relatively deep or strong; affecting one deeply

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

formed or developed from something else; not original

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for normal reproduction; an important antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals in the body

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

animal reproductive body consisting of an ovum or embryo together with nutritive and protective envelopes; especially the thin-shelled reproductive body laid by e.g. female birds

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

oval reproductive body of a fowl (especially a hen) used as food

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

being one more than seventeen

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

be identical or equivalent to

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

a document appraising the value of something (as for insurance or taxation)

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

all the members of a group, with none left out

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

past form of “exclaim” — utter aloud; often with surprise, horror, or joy

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

plural of “experiment” — the act of conducting a controlled test or investigation

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

a quantifier that can be used with count nouns and is often preceded by “a”; a small but indefinite number

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

(usually followed by “with” or used as a combining form) generously supplied with

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

start firing a weapon

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

(of a number) having a fixed and unchanging value

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

be in motion due to some air or water current

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

plural of “float” — the time interval between the deposit of a check in a bank and its payment

From this reading The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

a brittle transparent solid with irregular atomic structure

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

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

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

(physics) the force of attraction between all masses in the universe; especially the attraction of the earth's mass for bodies near its surface

From this reading SPECIFIC GRAVITY.

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

greater in size or importance or degree

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

to an extraordinary extent or degree

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

an established custom

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

consisting of one of two equivalent parts in value or quantity

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

the (prehensile) extremity of the superior limb

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

manual (or mechanical) carrying or moving or delivering or working with something

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

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

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

comparative of “heavy” — of comparatively great physical weight or density

From this reading The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

of comparatively great physical weight or density

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

give help or assistance; be of service

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

for this reason

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

in or at this place; where the speaker or writer is

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

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

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

without delay or hesitation; with no time intervening

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

the quality of being important and worthy of note

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

plural of “inch” — a unit of length equal to one twelfth of a foot

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

a search for knowledge

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

having or showing a tender and considerate and helpful nature; used especially of persons and their behavior

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

of or relating to the ancient Latins or the Latin language

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

the cognitive process of acquiring skill or knowledge

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

of comparatively little physical weight or density

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

prefer or wish to do something

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

plural of “liquid” — a substance that is liquid at room temperature and pressure

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

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 A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

produced by a manufacturing process

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

attraction for iron; associated with electric currents as well as magnets; characterized by fields of force

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

the message that is intended or expressed or signified

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

and nothing more

From this reading The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

any of several chemical elements that are usually shiny solids that conduct heat or electricity and can be formed into sheets etc.

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

used to form the superlative

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

an artistic form of auditory communication incorporating instrumental or vocal tones in a structured and continuous manner

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

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

From this reading The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

not of long duration; having just (or relatively recently) come into being or been made or acquired or discovered

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

not one thing; not anything

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

the act of obeying; dutiful or submissive behavior with respect to another person

From this reading The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

place of business where professional or clerical duties are performed

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

on one occasion

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

and nothing more

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

a judge of a probate court

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

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

From this reading The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

one side of one leaf (of a book or magazine or newspaper or letter etc.) or the written or pictorial matter it contains

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

graphic art consisting of an artistic composition made by applying paints to a surface

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

unique or specific to a person or thing or category

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

the state of being without a flaw or defect

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

a specialist in philosophy

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

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

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

situated in a particular spot or position

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

-ing form of “possess” — have as an attribute, knowledge, or skill

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

a light soft silver-white metallic element of the alkali metal group; oxidizes rapidly in air and reacts violently with water; is abundant in nature in combined forms occurring in sea water and in carnallite and kainite and sylvite

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

plural of “present” — the period of time that is happening now; any continuous stretch of time including the moment of speech

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

pleasing by delicacy or grace; not imposing

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct

From this reading The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

something owned; any tangible or intangible possession that is owned by someone

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

third-person singular of “provoke” — call forth (emotions, feelings, and responses)

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

plural of “reach” — the limits within which something can be effective

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

set down or registered in a permanent form especially on film or tape for reproduction

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

inflected form of “refer” — make reference to

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

a person related by blood or marriage

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

a compound formed by replacing hydrogen in an acid by a metal (or a radical that acts like a metal)

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

Identical; not different.

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

being the most concentrated solution possible at a given temperature; unable to dissolve still more of a substance

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

express in words

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

of or relating to the practice of science

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

an area in which something acts or operates or has power or control: "the range of a supersonic jet"

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

a three-dimensional work of plastic art

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

1/60 of a minute; the basic unit of time adopted under the Systeme International d'Unites

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

perceive by sight or have the power to perceive by sight

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

appearing as such but not necessarily so

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

a general conscious awareness

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

the display of a motion picture

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

plural of “sink” — plumbing fixture consisting of a water basin fixed to a wall or floor and having a drainpipe

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

term of address for a man

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

the physical magnitude of something (how big it is)

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

plural of “solid” — matter that is solid at room temperature and pressure

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

a homogeneous mixture of two or more substances; frequently (but not necessarily) a liquid solution

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

a category of things distinguished by some common characteristic or quality

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

(biology) taxonomic group whose members can interbreed

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

(sometimes followed by “to”) applying to or characterized by or distinguishing something particular or special or unique

From this reading SPECIFIC GRAVITY.

conforming to or constituting a standard of measurement or value; or of the usual or regularized or accepted kind

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

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

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

the territory occupied by one of the constituent administrative districts of a nation

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

having strength or power greater than average or expected

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

the real physical matter of which a person or thing consists

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

the outer boundary of an artifact or a material layer constituting or resembling such a boundary

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

taken unawares or suddenly and feeling wonder or astonishment

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

(of undissolved particles in a fluid) supported or kept from sinking or falling by buoyancy and without apparent attachment

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

carry out

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

a word or expression used for some particular thing

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

past form of “term” — name formally or designate with a term

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

used when the people doing the action are also its object

From this reading The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

for that reason; as a result

From this reading The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

inflected form of “throw” — propel through the air

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

from one end or side of something to the other

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

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

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

up to a particular time

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

inflected form of “tell” — express in words

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

make physical contact with, come in contact with

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one or a numeral representing this number

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

(usually followed by “to”) not having the necessary means or skill or know-how

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

any division of quantity accepted as a standard of measurement or exchange

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

a formal word for “on”

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

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

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

binary compound that occurs at room temperature as a clear colorless odorless tasteless liquid; freezes into ice below 0 degrees centigrade and boils above 100 degrees centigrade; widely used as a solvent

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

the vertical force exerted by a mass as a result of gravity

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

plural of “weight” — the vertical force exerted by a mass as a result of gravity

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

used to ask for information about something

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

at the time that

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

in or at the place that

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

used to introduce two or more possibilities

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

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

From this reading The answer, of course, is in the negative, it merely floats in the centre, in obedience to the common principle, that all bodies float in others which are heavier than themselves; the brine has, therefore, a greater weight than an equal bulk of water, and is also heavier than the egg.

having great (or a certain) extent from one side to the other

From this reading A good idea of the scope and meaning of the term specific gravity, is acquired by a few simple experiments, thus: if a cylindrical [Page 49] glass, say eighteen inches long, and two and a half wide, is filled with water, and another of the same size is also filled, one half with water and the other half with a saturated solution of common salt, or what is commonly termed brine, a most amusing comparison of the relative weights of equal bulks of water and brine, can be made with the help of two eggs; when one of the eggs is placed in the glass containing water, it immediately sinks to the bottom, showing that it has a greater specific gravity than water; but when the other egg is placed in the second glass containing the brine, it sinks through the water till it reaches the strong solution of salt, where it is suspended, and presents a most curious and pretty appearance; seeming to float like a balloon in air, and apparently suspended upon nothing, it provokes the inquiry, "whether magnetism has anything to do with it?"

used to talk about the future, or about willingness

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.

in the company of; together with

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

English chemist and physicist who discovered palladium and rhodium and demonstrated that static and current electricity are the same (1766-1828)

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

the feeling aroused by something strange and surprising

From this reading It is recorded of the great Dr. Wollaston, that when Sir Humphry Davy placed in his hand, what was then considered to be _the_ scientific wonder of the day--viz., a small bit of the metal potassium, he exclaimed at once, "How heavy it is," and was greatly surprised, when Sir Humphry threw the metal on water, to see it not only take fire, but actually _float_ upon the surface; here, then, was a philosopher possessing the deepest learning, unable, by the sense of touch and by ordinary handling, to state correctly whether the new substance (and that a metal), was heavy or light; hence it is apparent that the property of specific gravity is one of importance, and being derived from the Latin, means _species_, a particular sort or kind; and _gravis_, heavy or weight--i.e., the particular weight of every substance compared with a fixed standard of water.

superlative of “young” — (used of living things especially persons) in an early period of life or development or growth

From this reading We are so constantly in the habit of referring to a standard of perfection in music and the arts of painting and sculpture, that the youngest will comprehend the office of water when told that it is the philosopher's unit or starting-point for the estimation of the relative weights of solids and liquids.