Chapter I

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

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

later than; following

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

make it possible through a specific action or lack of action for something to happen

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

in spite of the fact that

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

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

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

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

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

one more of the same kind, or a different one

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

one or some or every or all without specification

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

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

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

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

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

plural of “assertion” — a declaration that is made emphatically (as if no supporting evidence were necessary)

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

having a base

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

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

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

inflected form of “become” — enter or assume a certain state or condition

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

a hollow device made of metal that makes a ringing sound when struck

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

in a blatant manner

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

Scottish author noted for his biography of Samuel Johnson (1740-1795)

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

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

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

British statesman famous for his oratory; pleaded the cause of the American colonists in British Parliament and defended the parliamentary system (1729-1797)

From this reading Edmund Burke laughed, understanding the meaning of the twinkle in Goldsmith's eye.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

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

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

an institution created to conduct business

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

characteristic of false pride; having an exaggerated sense of self-importance

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

an unshakable belief in something without need for proof or evidence

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

inflected form of “cry” — utter a sudden loud cry

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

a show or display; the act of presenting something to sight or view

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

an effort that is inconvenient

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

the act of eating dinner

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

the main meal of the day served in the evening or at midday

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

a line leading to a place or point

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

the state of being unsure of something

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

being or moving lower in position or less in some value

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

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

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

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

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

inflected form of “eat” — take in solid food

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

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

From this reading Edmund Burke laughed, understanding the meaning of the twinkle in Goldsmith's eye.

divisible by two

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

at any time

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

very good; of the highest quality

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

undergo or live through a difficult experience

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

the organ of sight

From this reading Edmund Burke laughed, understanding the meaning of the twinkle in Goldsmith's eye.

plural of “face” — the front of the human head from the forehead to the chin and ear to ear

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

referring to the first of two things or persons mentioned (or the earlier one or ones of several)

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

English actor and theater manager who was the foremost Shakespearean actor of his day (1717-1779)

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

an artisan who makes jewelry and other objects out of gold

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

possessive form of “goldsmith” — an artisan who makes jewelry and other objects out of gold

From this reading Edmund Burke laughed, understanding the meaning of the twinkle in Goldsmith's eye.

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

the -ing form of “have”

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

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

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

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

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

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

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

the lack of knowledge or education

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

deeply or markedly affected or influenced

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

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

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

of or characteristic of low rank or importance

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

knowledge and intellectual ability

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

having the capacity for thought and reason especially to a high degree

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

past form of “interfere” — come between so as to be hindrance or obstacle

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

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

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

English writer and lexicographer (1709-1784)

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

(Old Testament) Moses' successor who led the Israelites into the Promised Land; best remembered for his destruction of Jericho

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

apprehended with certainty

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

referring to the second of two things or persons mentioned (or the last one or ones of several)

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

past form of “laugh” — produce laughter

From this reading Edmund Burke laughed, understanding the meaning of the twinkle in Goldsmith's eye.

kept in good condition

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

the act that results in something coming to be

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

all of the living human inhabitants of the earth

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

make imperfect

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

the message that is intended or expressed or signified

From this reading Edmund Burke laughed, understanding the meaning of the twinkle in Goldsmith's eye.

the force of workers available

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

the act of mimicking; imitative behavior

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

a particular point in time

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

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

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

used to form the superlative

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

used when the speaker is also the object of the action

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

in the historical present; at this point in the narration of a series of past events

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

something determined in relation to something that includes it

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

detected by instinct or inference rather than by recognized perceptual cues

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

address a deity, a prophet, a saint or an object of worship; say a prayer

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

-ing form of “prove” — be shown or be found to be

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

past form of “reproduce” — make a copy or equivalent of

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

English portrait painter and first president of the Royal Academy (1723-1792)

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

being the one previously mentioned or spoken of

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

the seventh and last day of the week; observed as the Sabbath by Jews and some Christians

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

a native or inhabitant of Scotland

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

the feeling you have when you are satisfied with yourself

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

past form of “show” — give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

term of address for a man

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

change one's facial expression by spreading the lips, often to signal pleasure

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

dignified and somber in manner or character and committed to keeping promises

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

a trait of dignified seriousness

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

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

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

a deliberately invalid argument displaying ingenuity in reasoning in the hope of deceiving someone

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

carry out

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

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

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

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

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

moved around an axis or center

From this reading Sir Joshua Reynolds, having reproduced--with some care--that twinkle, turned the bell of his ear-trumpet with a smile in the direction of Johnson; but Boswell and Garrick sat with solemn faces.

gleam or glow intermittently

From this reading Edmund Burke laughed, understanding the meaning of the twinkle in Goldsmith's eye.

the cognitive condition of someone who understands

From this reading Edmund Burke laughed, understanding the meaning of the twinkle in Goldsmith's eye.

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

From this reading The former showed that he was more impressed than ever with the conviction that Goldsmith was the most blatantly conceited of mankind, and the latter--as Burke perceived in a moment--was solemn in mimicry of Boswell's solemnity.

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

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

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”

the form of “who” used as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

the cause or intention underlying an action or situation, especially in the phrase “the whys and wherefores”

From this reading “Why, sir,” cried Goldsmith, “I doubt if the self-satisfaction of even the most intelligent of men--whom I take to be myself--is interfered with by any demonstration of an inferior intellect on the part of another.”

in the company of; together with

From this reading Sir,” said Dr. Johnson, “we have eaten an excellent dinner, we are a company of intelligent men--although I allow that we should have difficulty in proving that we are so if it became known that we sat down with a Scotchman--and now pray do not mar the self-satisfaction which intelligent men experience after dining, by making assertions based on ignorance and maintained by sophistry.”