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 Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

plural of “ability” — the quality of being able to perform; a quality that permits or facilitates achievement or accomplishment

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

on the subject of; concerning

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

choose and follow; as of theories, ideas, policies, strategies or plans

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

matters of personal concern

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

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

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

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

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

short account of an incident (especially a biographical one)

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

plural of “answer” — a statement (either spoken or written) that is made to reply to a question or request or criticism or accusation

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

one or some or every or all without specification

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

the act of bringing something to bear; using it for a particular purpose

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

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

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

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

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

enter or assume a certain state or condition

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

earlier than; in front of

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

plural of “begin” — Israeli statesman (born in Russia) who (as prime minister of Israel) negotiated a peace treaty with Anwar Sadat (then the president of Egypt) (1913-1992)

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

the supreme effort one can make

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

plural of “boat” — a small vessel for travel on water

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

(plural) the lay members of a male religious order

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

a commercial or industrial enterprise and the people who constitute it

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

plural of “cabin” — small room on a ship or boat where people sleep

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

to be able to, or to be allowed to

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

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

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

plural of “captain” — an officer holding a rank below a major but above a lieutenant

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

the particular occupation for which you are trained

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

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

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

a person who is in charge

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

plural of “cockpit” — compartment where the pilot sits while flying the aircraft

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

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

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

the opposition or dissimilarity of things that are compared

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

without question and beyond doubt

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

the act of determining the properties of something, usually by research or calculation

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

not easy; requiring great physical or mental effort to accomplish or comprehend or endure

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

the state of being unsure of something

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

at or near the beginning of a period of time or course of events or before the usual or expected time

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

in or to another place

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

divisible by two

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

all the members of a group, with none left out

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

indicating exactness or preciseness

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

an event (or a course of events) that will inevitably happen in the future

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

a diagram or picture illustrating textual material

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

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

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

in harmony with the spirit of particular persons or occasion

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

the rising of a body of water and its overflowing onto normally dry land

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

set up or found

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

do one's shopping at; do business with; be a customer or client of

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

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

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

feeling or showing gratitude

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

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

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

show one's unhappiness or critical attitude

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

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

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

repeated too often; overfamiliar through overuse

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

secretly shelter (as of fugitives or criminals)

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

not easy; requiring great physical or mental effort to accomplish or comprehend or endure

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

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

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

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

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

plural of “help” — the activity of contributing to the fulfillment of a need or furtherance of an effort or purpose

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

advanced in complexity or elaboration

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

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

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

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

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

a very large person; impressive in size or qualities

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

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

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

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

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

a sense of concern with and curiosity about someone or something

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

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

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

term of address for a disrespectful and annoying male

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

the act of departing

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

used to form the comparative of some adjectives and adverbs

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

a characteristic state or mode of living

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

prefer or wish to do something

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

a formation of people or things one beside another

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

plural of “line” — a formation of people or things one beside another

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

terms referring to the Judeo-Christian God

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

your overall circumstances or condition in life (including everything that happens to you)

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

produced by a manufacturing process

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

engage in

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

possessive form of “man” — an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

used to say something is possible, or to give permission

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

the force of workers available

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

(nautical) an associate with whom you share meals in the same mess (as on a ship)

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

a figure of speech in which an expression is used to refer to something that it does not literally denote in order to suggest a similarity

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

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

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

as might be expected

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

an organization of military vessels belonging to a country and available for sea warfare

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

absolutely essential

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

English admiral who defeated the French fleets of Napoleon but was mortally wounded at Trafalgar (1758-1805)

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

amounting to a large indefinite number

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

possessive form of “officer” — any person in the armed services who holds a position of authority or command

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

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

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

belonging to the speaker and others

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

have ownership or possession of

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

graphic art consisting of an artistic composition made by applying paints to a surface

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

by chance

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

an amount of time

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

a plan of action adopted by an individual or social group

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

influenced or controlled by a powerful force such as a strong emotion

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

engaged in a profession or engaging in as a profession or means of livelihood

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

the excess of revenues over outlays in a given period of time (including depreciation and other non-cash expenses)

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

gradual improvement or growth or development

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

favoring or promoting progress

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

being or occurring in fact or actuality; having verified existence; not illusory

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

in accordance with fixed order or procedure or principle

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

anything indispensable

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

gear consisting of ropes etc. supporting a ship's masts and sails

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

the work of a sailor

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

express in words

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

the act of cleaning a surface by rubbing it with a brush and soap and water

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

work done by one person or group that benefits another

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

transport commercially

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

plural of “ship” — a vessel that carries passengers or freight

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

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

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

any distinct time period in a sequence of events

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

plural of “stage” — any distinct time period in a sequence of events

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

not in physical motion

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

plural of “store” — a mercantile establishment for the retail sale of goods or services

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

the charge for stowing goods

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

an event that accomplishes its intended purpose

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

express a supposition

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

instrumentality that combines interrelated interacting artifacts designed to work as a coherent entity

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

carry out

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

understood in a certain way; made sense of

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

the act of someone who picks up or takes something

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

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

From this reading Fitting out--Progress of rigging--The figure-head--Progressive rigging--The boats--Fitting out--Stowage of ships' stores--System requisite--Painting the ship--Policy of a good chief--Anecdote of Lord Nelson--Scrubbing the hulk--Leaving the harbour--Sailing TAKING A LINE IN THE SERVICE.

in or at that place or location

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

the plural of “that”: the people or things further away, or already known

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

in spite of the fact that

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

the periodic rise and fall of the sea level under the gravitational pull of the moon

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

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

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

not expected or anticipated

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

the act of using

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

a company that performs a public service; subject to government regulation

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

precisely as stated

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

plural of “vessel” — a tube in which a body fluid circulates

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

the waging of armed conflict against an enemy

From this reading That there is a tide in the affairs of men, has very naturally become a figure of frequent and almost hackneyed use in the cockpits, gun-rooms, and even the captains' cabins of our ships and vessels of war.

used to ask for information about something

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.

at the time that

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

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

From this reading Still, the metaphor may have its grateful use; for certainly in the Navy, and I suppose elsewhere, there is a period in the early stages of every man's professional life at which it is necessary that he should, more or less decidedly, "take his line," in order best to profit by the tide when the flood begins to make.

used to talk about the future, or about willingness

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

air moving (sometimes with considerable force) from an area of high pressure to an area of low pressure

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

in the company of; together with

From this reading Like its numerous brethren of common-places, it will be found, perhaps, but of small application to the real business of life; though it answers capitally to wind up a regular grumble at the unexpected success of some junior messmate possessed of higher interest or abilities, and helps to contrast the growler's own hard fate with the good luck of those about him.

(used of living things especially persons) in an early period of life or development or growth

From this reading It is difficult to say exactly at what stage of a young officer's career the determination to adopt any one of the numerous lines before him should be taken: but there can be little doubt as to the utility of that determination being made early in life.