Chapter XXI · A Difficult Question

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

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

a vaguely specified concern

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

touching and pressing; in opposition to

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

(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 There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

in the middle of; surrounded by

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

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

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

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

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

an old form of “are”, used with “thou”

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

relating to or characteristic of art or artists

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

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

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

in a state of sleep

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

not in a state of sleep; completely conscious

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

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

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

inflected form of “behold” — see with attention

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

present

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

-ing form of “bewilder” — be a mystery or bewildering to

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

uttered without voice

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

make calm or still

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

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

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

definitely or positively (“sure” is sometimes used informally for “surely”)

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

an imaginary person represented in a work of fiction (play or film or story)

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

a society in an advanced state of social development (e.g., with complex legal and political and religious organizations)

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

a movement in literature and art during the 17th and 18th centuries in Europe that favored rationality and restraint and strict forms

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

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

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

an intense desire for some particular thing

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

past form of “create” — make or cause to be or to become

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

no longer having or seeming to have or expecting to have life

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

reach, make, or come to a decision about something

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

the act of making up your mind about something

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

inflected form of “defy” — resist or confront with resistance

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

inflected form of “deny” — declare untrue; contradict

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

dreamy in mood or nature

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

hard to deal with; especially causing pain or embarrassment

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

an adequate quantity; a quantity that is large enough to achieve a purpose

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

to a distinctly greater extent or degree than is common

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

a piece of information about circumstances that exist or events that have occurred

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

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

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

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

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

mat together and make felt-like

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

promote the growth of

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

yet to be or coming

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

someone who has exceptional intellectual ability and originality

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

something acquired without compensation

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

past form of “grasp” — hold firmly

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

a resentment strong enough to justify retaliation

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

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

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

only a very short time before

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

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

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

(law) a proceeding (usually by a court) where evidence is taken for the purpose of determining an issue of fact and reaching a decision based on that evidence

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

relating to or characteristic of the classical Greek civilization

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

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

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

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

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

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

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

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

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

set up for use

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

a land mass (smaller than a continent) that is surrounded by water

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

used when the thing doing the action is also its object

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

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

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

a male sovereign; ruler of a kingdom

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

inflected form of “know” — be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

take somebody somewhere

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

departing or being caused to depart from the true vertical or horizontal

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

a characteristic state or mode of living

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

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

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

engage in

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

a vaguely specified concern

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

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

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

used to say something is possible, or to give permission

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

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

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

painting or drawing included in a book (especially in illuminated medieval manuscripts)

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

used to form the superlative

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

absolutely essential

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

make available or accessible, provide or furnish

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

a fundamental principle or practice

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

a fundamental feeling that is hard to define but that people desire to experience

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

the particular portion of space occupied by something

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

plural of “power” — possession of controlling influence

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

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

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

past form of “propose” — make a proposal, declare a plan for something

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

challenge the accuracy, probity, or propriety of

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

all of your experiences that determine how things appear to you

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

thinking that is coherent and logical

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

past form of “rejuvenate” — cause (a stream or river) to erode, as by an uplift of the land

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

past form of “remain” — stay the same; remain in a certain state

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

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

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

a division of an ocean or a large body of salt water partially enclosed by land

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

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

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

the quality of being secluded from the presence or view of others

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

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

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

The state of being calm, peaceful, and untroubled by external storms.

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

in a singular manner or to a singular degree

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

a thing, without saying which

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

to a small degree or extent

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

the immaterial part of a person; the actuating cause of an individual life

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

being definitely out of the ordinary and unexpected; slightly odd or even a bit weird

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

definitely or positively (“sure” is sometimes used informally for “surely”)

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

your usual mood

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

highly attractive and able to arouse hope or desire

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

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

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

in or at that place or location

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

(formal) in or into that thing or place

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

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

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

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

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

a more or less definite period of time now or previously present

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

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

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

accumulated wealth in the form of money or jewels etc.

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

not expected or anticipated

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

radically distinctive and without equal

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

not known

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

disturb the composure of

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

precisely as stated

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

a vivid mental image

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

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

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

used to ask for information about something

From this reading Certainly Maurice felt in a somewhat embarrassing position, on hearing of Justinian’s offer to instal him as future King of Melnos, and he hardly knew what decision to make in the matter.

at the time that

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

in or at the place that

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

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

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

which person or people

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.

showing curiosity

From this reading At present the affair was so unexpected and bewildering that he hardly grasped the fact of its reality, and remained where he was, leaning against a pillar, wondering if he was asleep or awake.

exert oneself by doing mental or physical work for a purpose or out of necessity

From this reading There was something singularly tempting in this offer, especially to a man of Roylands’ artistic temperament; for here, in this sea-girt island, he could lead a life of dreamy seclusion, and work at his art amid these rejuvenated Hellenic times, which breathed all the serenity and calm necessary to foster the craving soul of genius.

the person or people being spoken to

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

belonging to the person or people being spoken to

From this reading If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure, It surely cannot be denied, If you this question strange decide, That Fate’s prerogative’s defied, And thus may grudge your self-won treasure, If you this question strange decide, This way, that way, at your pleasure.

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

From this reading He had come to an unknown island of the Ægean Sea, and therein had beheld a miniature civilization of a most unique character, which in itself by its very fancifulness was enough to unsettle his calm reasoning powers, when lo! the man who had created this vision of dead classicism proposed to bestow it on him as a gift.