Chapter XIV · Chapter 14

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

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

higher than, or over, something

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

(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 From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

(of actions or states) slightly short of or not quite accomplished; all but

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

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

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

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

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

completing its life cycle within a year

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

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

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

plural of “arcade” — a covered passageway with shops and stalls on either side

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

surrounding, or on every side of, something

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

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

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

plural of “bear” — massive plantigrade carnivorous or omnivorous mammals with long shaggy coats and strong claws

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

plural of “beast” — a living organism characterized by voluntary movement

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

a landlocked principality in the Himalayas to the northeast of India

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

plural of “bishop” — a senior member of the Christian clergy having spiritual and administrative authority; appointed in Christian churches to oversee priests or ministers; considered in some churches to be successors of the twelve Apostles of Christ

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

being of the achromatic color of maximum darkness; having little or no hue owing to absorption of almost all incident light

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

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

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

founder of Buddhism (c 563-483 BC)

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

one who follows the teachings of Buddha

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

a structure that has a roof and walls and stands more or less permanently in one place

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

plural of “building” — a structure that has a roof and walls and stands more or less permanently in one place

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

obstinate and stupid

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

a formal event performed on a special occasion

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

An unroofed area that is completely or partially enclosed by the walls of a house.

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

overlaid or spread or topped with or enclosed within something; sometimes used as a combining form

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

plural of “creature” — a living organism characterized by voluntary movement

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

plural of “crowd” — a large number of things or people considered together

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

plural of “cymbal” — a percussion instrument consisting of a concave brass disk; makes a loud crashing sound when hit with a drumstick or when two are struck together

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

an artistic form of nonverbal communication

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

plural of “dancer” — a performer who dances professionally

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

caused to hear poorly or not at all

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

past form of “degenerate” — grow worse

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

plural of “demon” — an evil supernatural being

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

(Judeo-Christian and Islamic religions) chief spirit of evil and adversary of God; tempter of mankind; master of Hell

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

-ing form of “divide” — separate into parts or portions

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

plural of “dragon” — a creature of Teutonic mythology; usually represented as breathing fire and having a reptilian body and sometimes wings

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

plural of “ear” — the sense organ for hearing and equilibrium

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

divisible by two

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

a strong belief in a supernatural power or powers that control human destiny

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

steadfast in affection or allegiance

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

widely known and esteemed

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

ludicrously odd

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

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

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

a day or period of time set aside for feasting and celebration

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

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

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

plural of “flagstone” — stratified stone that splits into pieces suitable as paving stones

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

having a surface without slope, tilt in which no part is higher or lower than another

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

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

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

plural of “function” — (mathematics) a mathematical relation such that each element of a given set (the domain of the function) is associated with an element of another set (the range of the function)

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

in a gay manner

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

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

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

founder of Buddhism (c 563-483 BC)

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

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

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

plural of “gong” — a percussion instrument consisting of a metal plate that is struck with a softheaded drumstick

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

in an impressively beautiful manner

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

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

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

a facial expression characterized by turning up the corners of the mouth; usually shows pleasure or amusement

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

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

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

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

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

plural of “head” — the upper part of the human body or the front part of the body in animals; contains the face and brains

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

not accessible to view

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

grossly offensive to decency or morality; causing horror

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

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

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

conforming to an ultimate standard of perfection or excellence; embodying an ideal

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

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

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

not in harmony

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

plural of “instrument” — a device that requires skill for proper use

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

moving to the inside of something

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

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

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

(especially of promises or contracts) not violated or disregarded

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

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

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

plural of “lama” — a Tibetan or Mongolian priest of Lamaism

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

the land on which real estate is located

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

immediately past

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

having a pattern of fretwork or latticework

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

a formation of people or things one beside another

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

primarily temporal sense; being or indicating a relatively great or greater than average duration or passage of time or a duration as specified

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

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

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

produced by a manufacturing process

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

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

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

having no meaning or direction or purpose

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

plural of “member” — one of the persons who compose a social group (especially individuals who have joined and participate in a group organization)

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

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

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

the residence of a religious community

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

used to form the superlative

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

a land mass that projects well above its surroundings; higher than a hill

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

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

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

something that baffles understanding and cannot be explained

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

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

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

a musical organization consisting of a group of instrumentalists including string players

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

(often plural) a command given by a superior (e.g., a military or law enforcement officer) that must be obeyed

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

coated with paint

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

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

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

the local environment

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

covered with a firm surface

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

a journey to a sacred place

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

plural of “play” — a dramatic work intended for performance by actors on a stage

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

past form of “preach” — deliver a sermon

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

plural of “priest” — a clergyman in Christian churches who has the authority to perform or administer various religious rites; one of the Holy Orders

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

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

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

a disputant who advocates reform

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

plural of “roof” — a protective covering that covers or forms the top of a building

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

having or caused by an irregular surface

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

concerned with religion or religious purposes

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

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

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

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

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

continuously varying

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

a soft white precious univalent metallic element having the highest electrical and thermal conductivity of any metal; occurs in argentite and in free form; used in coins and jewelry and tableware and photography

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

plural of “skeleton” — something reduced to its minimal form

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

plural of “skull” — the bony skeleton of the head of vertebrates

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

plural of “spectator” — a close observer; someone who looks at something (such as an exhibition of some kind)

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

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

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

anyone who does not belong in the environment in which they are found

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

confined on all sides

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

past form of “terrace” — provide (a house) with a terrace

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

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

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

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

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

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

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

filled with great numbers crowded together

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

plural of “throng” — a large gathering of people

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

an autonomous region of the Peoples Republic of China; located in the Himalayas

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

a terrorist organization in Sri Lanka that began in 1970 as a student protest over the limited university access for Tamil students

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

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

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

pitcher plant of southeastern United States having erect yellow trumpet-shaped pitchers with wide mouths and erect lids

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

tropical American prickly pear of Jamaica

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

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

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

dressed in ceremonial garments especially clerical vestment

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

plural of “wall” — an architectural partition with a height and length greater than its thickness; used to divide or enclose an area or to support another structure

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

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

From this reading It was the annual ceremony of the Devil Dance of the great Buddhist monastery of Tuna, one of the fantastic Mystery Plays, the now almost meaningless functions into which the ideal faith preached by Gautama, the Buddha, the high-souled reformer, has degenerated.

suggesting the operation of supernatural influences

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

the countries of (originally) Europe and (now including) North America and South America

From this reading From all parts of Bhutan west of the dividing line of the great Black Mountain Range, from Tibet, even from far-distant Ladak, the faithful had made pilgrimage to be present at the great festival in this most famous and sacred _gompa_ of the land.

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

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

plural of “whip” — an instrument with a handle and a flexible lash that is used for whipping

From this reading Crowds of gaily-clad spectators covered the flat roofs of the building and arcades, thronged the verandahs, filled the windows and squatted around the courtyard--these last kept in order by bullet-headed lamas with whips.

marked by extreme lack of restraint or control

From this reading Wild but not inharmonious music from shaven-headed members of an orchestra of weird instruments--gongs, shawns, cymbals, long silver trumpets--deafened the ears.

(trademark) an operating system with a graphical user interface

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

in the company of; together with

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.

made or consisting of (entirely or in part) or employing wood

From this reading THE DEVIL DANCERS OF TUNA Flat-roofed, arcaded buildings terraced one above the other, with gaily painted walls from which covered wooden verandahs and box-like, latticed windows jutted out, surrounded a paved courtyard, its rough flagstones hidden by shifting, many-coloured throngs of gorgeously vestmented priests, mitred bishops, hideous demons, skeletons with grinning skulls and weird creatures with _papier maché_ heads of bears, tigers, dragons and even stranger beasts.