Chapter I · Chapter 1

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

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

later than; following

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

plural of “age” — how long something has existed

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

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

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

one more of the same kind, or a different one

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

the historic period preceding the Middle Ages in Europe

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

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

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

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

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

the past participle of “be”

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

(comparative of “good”) superior to another (of the same class or set or kind) in excellence or quality or desirability or suitability; more highly skilled than another

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

on the far side of; further than

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

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

From this reading UNIVERSITY PRESS: WELCH, BIGELOW, & CO.

a written work or composition that has been published (printed on pages bound together)

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

Bound written or printed works.

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

a period of 100 years

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

definite but not specified or identified

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

King of France from 1560 to 1574 whose reign was dominated by his mother Catherine de Medicis (1550-1574)

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

the dissemination of copies of periodicals (as newspapers or magazines)

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

an odorless very poisonous gas that is a product of incomplete combustion of carbon

From this reading UNIVERSITY PRESS: WELCH, BIGELOW, & CO.

a person who compiles information (as for reference purposes)

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

serenely self-possessed and free from agitation especially in times of stress

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

past form of “consume” — eat up completely, as with great appetite

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

seemingly without interruption

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

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

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

education imparted in a series of lessons or meetings

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

a flow of electricity through a conductor

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

English natural scientist who formulated a theory of evolution by natural selection (1809-1882)

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

having or expressing desire for something

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

having the power or quality of deciding

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

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

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

put into service; make work or employ for a particular purpose or for its inherent or natural purpose

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

come upon, as if by accident; meet with

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

brought together in one place

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

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

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

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

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

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

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

gossip (usually a mixture of truth and untruth) passed around by word of mouth

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

used when the man or boy doing the action is also its object

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

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

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

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

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

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

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

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

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

a person who inhabits a particular place

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

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

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

a humorous anecdote or remark intended to provoke laughter

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

plural of “jest” — a humorous anecdote or remark intended to provoke laughter

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

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

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

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

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

a humorous anecdote or remark intended to provoke laughter

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

plural of “joke” — a humorous anecdote or remark intended to provoke laughter

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

apprehended with certainty

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

showing or characterized by broad-mindedness

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

no longer in your possession or control; unable to be found or recovered

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

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

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

for the most part

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

engage in

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

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

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

a quantifier that can be used with count nouns and is often preceded by “as” or “too” or “so” or “that”; amounting to a large but indefinite number

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

United States bandleader of a popular big band (1909-1944)

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

plural of “mind” — that which is responsible for one's thoughts, feelings, and conscious brain functions; the seat of the faculty of reason

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

become covered with mist

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

based on or told of in traditional stories; lacking factual basis or historical validity

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

not ever; at no time in the past or future

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

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

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

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

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

advanced in years; (“aged” is pronounced as two syllables)

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

superlative of “old” — (used especially of persons) having lived for a relatively long time or attained a specific age

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

the place where something begins, where it springs into being

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

preceding all others in time or being as first made or performed

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

past form of “pass” — go across or through

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

another word for person; a person not meriting identification

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

a short introductory essay preceding the text of a book

From this reading PREFACE.

exert pressure or force to or upon

From this reading UNIVERSITY PRESS: WELCH, BIGELOW, & CO.

not widely known; especially valued for its uncommonness

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

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

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

the ability to recall past occurrences

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

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

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

past form of “repute” — look on as or consider

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

plural of “research” — systematic investigation to establish facts

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

-ing form of “resemble” — appear like; be similar or bear a likeness to

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

filled with satisfaction

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

term of address for a man

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

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

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

(biology) taxonomic group whose members can interbreed

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

not financially safe or secure

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

a small number (of something) dispersed haphazardly

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

taken unawares or suddenly and feeling wonder or astonishment

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

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

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

used when the people doing the action are also its object

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

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

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

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

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

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

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

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

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.

inflected form of “transfer” — transfer somebody to a different position or location of work

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

the body of faculty and students at a university

From this reading UNIVERSITY PRESS: WELCH, BIGELOW, & CO.

up to a particular time

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

an organism that can utter vocal sounds

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

impressive by reason of age

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

cheat by avoiding payment of a gambling debt

From this reading UNIVERSITY PRESS: WELCH, BIGELOW, & CO.

at the time that

From this reading Dr. Darwin and Sir Charles Lyell, when they have satisfied themselves as to the _Origin of Species_ and the _Antiquity of Man_, could not better employ their speculative minds than in determining the origin and antiquity of the venerable "joes" which have been in circulation beyond the remembrance of that mythical personage, "the Oldest Inhabitant."

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

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

plural of “wine” — fermented juice (of grapes especially)

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

a message whose ingenuity or verbal skill or incongruity has the power to evoke laughter

From this reading In the course of his researches he has been surprised to find how many Jests, Impromptus, and Repartees have passed current, century after century, until their original utterer is lost in the "mist of ages"; a Good Joke being transferred from one reputed Wit to another, thus resembling certain rare Wines which are continually being rebottled but are never consumed.

in the company of; together with

From this reading The Compiler of this new JEST BOOK is desirous to make known that it is composed mainly of old jokes,--some older than Joe Miller himself,--with a liberal sprinkling of new jests gathered from books and hearsay.