used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
absorbedadjectiveUS /əbˈzɔːrbd/
giving or marked by complete attention to
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
AccountsnounUS /əˈkaʊnts/
plural of “account” — a record or narrative description of past events
From this reading "Accounts made up, sir."
addingverbUS /ˈædɪŋ/
-ing form of “add” — make an addition (to); join or combine or unite with others; increase the quality, quantity, size or scope of
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
additionnounUS /əˈdɪʃən/
a component that is added to something to improve it
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
a quantity of money
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
amusingadjectiveUS /əˈmjuːzɪŋ/
providing enjoyment; pleasantly entertaining
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
past form of “arrive” — reach a destination; arrive by movement or progress
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
assiduouslyadverbUS /əˈsɪdwəsli/
with care and persistence
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
a relatively permanent inclination to react in a particular way
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
showing who or what does the action
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
calculationnounUS /ˌkælkjəˈleɪʃən/
the procedure of calculating; determining something by mathematical or logical methods
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
an employee who performs clerical work (e.g., keeps records or accounts)
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
columnsnounUS /ˈkɑːləmz/
plural of “column” — a line of units following one after another
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
confidentialadjectiveUS /ˌkɑːnfəˈdenʃəl/
entrusted with private information and the confidence of another
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
unvarying in nature
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
crampedadjectiveUS /kræmpt/
constricted in size
From this reading With a profound sigh of relief, he laid down his pen, and rubbing his cramped fingers, quietly remarked:
accepted or habitual practice
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
unlike in nature or quality or form or degree
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
being or moving lower in position or less in some value
From this reading With a profound sigh of relief, he laid down his pen, and rubbing his cramped fingers, quietly remarked:
every one of two or more people or things, taken separately
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
employmentnounUS /emˈplɔɪmənt/
the state of being employed or having a job
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
enabledverbUS /eˈneɪbəld/
past form of “enable” — render capable or able for some task
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
establishmentnounUS /ɪˈstæblɪʃmənt/
the act of forming or establishing something
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
emotional or moral sensitivity (especially in relation to personal principles or dignity)
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
figuringnounUS /ˈfɪɡjərɪŋ/
problem solving that involves numbers or quantities
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
plural of “finger” — any of the terminal members of the hand (sometimes excepting the thumb)
From this reading With a profound sigh of relief, he laid down his pen, and rubbing his cramped fingers, quietly remarked:
first-classadjectiveUS /ˌfɜːrstˈklæs/
very good; of the highest quality
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
fructifying
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
of behavior that is impressive and ambitious in scale or scope
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
GranitenounUS /ˈɡrænət/
plutonic igneous rock having visibly crystalline texture; generally composed of feldspar and mica and quartz
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
relatively large in size or number or extent; larger than others of its kind
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
havingauxiliary verbUS /ˈhævɪŋ/
the -ing form of “have”
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading With a profound sigh of relief, he laid down his pen, and rubbing his cramped fingers, quietly remarked:
the upper part of the human body or the front part of the body in animals; contains the face and brains
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
used when the man or boy doing the action is also its object
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
hourlyadjectiveUS /ˈaʊrli/
occurring every hour or payable by the hour
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
individualsnounUS /ˌɪndəˈvɪdʒəwəlz/
plural of “individual” — a human being
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
set down according to a plan
From this reading With a profound sigh of relief, he laid down his pen, and rubbing his cramped fingers, quietly remarked:
the superlative of “little” that can be used with mass nouns and is usually preceded by “the”; a quantifier meaning smallest in amount or extent or degree
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
ledgernounUS /ˈledʒər/
a record in which commercial accounts are recorded
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
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 One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
produced by a manufacturing process
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
mechanicallyadverbUS /məˈkænɪkli/
in a mechanical manner; by a mechanism
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
merchantnounUS /ˈmɜːr.tʃənt/
A person or company involved in wholesale trade, especially with foreign countries.
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
MERCHANT-PRINCE
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading THE MERCHANT-PRINCE.
millionairenounUS /ˌmɪljəˈner/
a person whose material wealth is valued at more than a million dollars
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
a wrong action attributable to bad judgment or ignorance or inattention
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
a form of address for a man
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
place of business where professional or clerical duties are performed
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
(used especially of persons) having lived for a relatively long time or attained a specific age
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
on one occasion
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
used to mean any person in general, including the speaker
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
overprepositionUS /ˈoʊvər/
above and across; more than
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
a writing implement with a point from which ink flows
From this reading With a profound sigh of relief, he laid down his pen, and rubbing his cramped fingers, quietly remarked:
a geometric element that has position but no extension
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
possessionsnounUS /pəˈzeʃənz/
plural of “possession” — the act of having and controlling property
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
a future prospect or potential
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
possession of controlling influence
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
give an exhibition of to an interested audience
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
confined to particular persons or groups or providing privacy
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
probableadjectiveUS /ˈprɑːbəbəl/
likely but not certain to be or become true or real
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
showing intellectual penetration or emotional depth
From this reading With a profound sigh of relief, he laid down his pen, and rubbing his cramped fingers, quietly remarked:
with low volume
From this reading With a profound sigh of relief, he laid down his pen, and rubbing his cramped fingers, quietly remarked:
the feeling that comes when something burdensome is removed or reduced
From this reading With a profound sigh of relief, he laid down his pen, and rubbing his cramped fingers, quietly remarked:
past form of “remark” — make mention of
From this reading With a profound sigh of relief, he laid down his pen, and rubbing his cramped fingers, quietly remarked:
having or caused by an irregular surface
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
rubbingnounUS /ˈrʌbɪŋ/
the resistance encountered when one body is moved in contact with another
From this reading With a profound sigh of relief, he laid down his pen, and rubbing his cramped fingers, quietly remarked:
the seventh and last day of the week; observed as the Sabbath by Jews and some Christians
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
heave or utter a sigh; breathe deeply and heavily
From this reading With a profound sigh of relief, he laid down his pen, and rubbing his cramped fingers, quietly remarked:
and nothing more
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
term of address for a man
From this reading "Accounts made up, sir."
SterlingadjectiveUS /ˈstɜːrlɪŋ/
highest in quality
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
a mercantile establishment for the retail sale of goods or services
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading THE MERCHANT-PRINCE.
the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
in an exhaustive manner
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
totalverbUS /ˈtoʊtəl/
add up in number or quantity
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one or a numeral representing this number
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
the act of using
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
usualadjectiveUS /ˈjuːʒəwəl/
occurring or encountered or experienced or observed frequently or in accordance with regular practice or procedure
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
precisely as stated
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
the state of being rich and affluent; having a plentiful supply of material goods and money
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
at the time that
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
whileconjunctionUS /waɪl/
during the time that
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
in the company of; together with
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
not having, not using, or not accompanied by
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
exert oneself by doing mental or physical work for a purpose or out of necessity
From this reading In the private office of a first-class store sat two individuals, each thoroughly absorbed in his present employment, but with very different feelings for the work.
worldlyadjectiveUS /ˈwɜːrldli/
characteristic of or devoted to the temporal world as opposed to the spiritual world
From this reading One--it was the head of the establishment, the great Mr. Granite, the millionaire merchant--was simply amusing himself, as was his usual custom at least once a day, figuring up, by rough calculation, the probable amount of his worldly possessions, they having arrived at that point when the fructifying power of wealth made hourly addition to the grand total; while the other, his old and confidential clerk, Sterling, bent assiduously over a great ledger, mechanically adding up its long columns, which constant use had enabled him to do without the possibility of mistake.
