used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
activitynounUS /ækˈtɪvəti/
any specific behavior
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
adversarynounUS /ˈædvərseri/
someone who offers opposition
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
adversary's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
touching and pressing; in opposition to
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
(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 While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
past form of “allow” — make it possible through a specific action or lack of action for something to happen
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
(of actions or states) slightly short of or not quite accomplished; all but
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
Archimbald
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
armournounUS /ˈɑːrmər/
a military unit consisting of armored fighting vehicles
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
weapons considered collectively
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
marked by assurance; exhibiting confidence
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
asunderadjectiveUS /əˈsʌndər/
widely separated especially in space
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
the process whereby a person concentrates on some features of the environment to the (relative) exclusion of others
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
past form of “attract” — direct toward itself or oneself by means of some psychological power or physical attributes
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
battle-axenoun
a sharp-tongued domineering wife
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
inflected form of “behold” — see with attention
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
betwixtprepositionUS /biˈtwɪkst/
an old word for “between”
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
exhale hard
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
the two together, not just one
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
brazenadjectiveUS /ˈbreɪzən/
unrestrained by convention or propriety
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
the front of the trunk from the neck to the abdomen
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
physically and forcibly separated into pieces or cracked or split
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
showing who or what does the action
From this reading How Sir Kolbein of Norway came by his death-wound.
inflected form of “come” — move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody
From this reading How Sir Kolbein of Norway came by his death-wound.
one who is the object of choice; who is given preference
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
clashingadjectiveUS /ˈklæʃɪŋ/
sharply and harshly discordant
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
a steep high face of rock
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
combatnounUS /ˈkɑːmbæt/
an engagement fought between two military forces
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
determine the number or amount of
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
death-wound
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading How Sir Kolbein of Norway came by his death-wound.
delusionnounUS /dɪˈluːʒən/
(psychology) an erroneous belief that is held in the face of evidence to the contrary
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
didauxiliary verbUS /dɪd/
the past form of “do”, used in questions and negatives
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
enchantmentnounUS /enˈtʃæntmənt/
a feeling of great liking for something wonderful and unusual
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
having ones attention or mind or energy engaged
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
extraordinarily large in size or extent or amount or power or degree
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
opinion or judgment
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
having dropped by the force of gravity
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
fataladjectiveUS /ˈfeɪtəl/
bringing death
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
undergo an emotional sensation or be in a particular state of mind
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
cause to fall by or as if by delivering a blow
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
flownverbUS /floʊn/
inflected form of “fly” — travel through the air; be airborne
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
produced by or subjected to forcing
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
the part of the face above the eyes
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
fragmentsnounUS /ˈfræɡmənts/
plural of “fragment” — a piece broken off or cut off of something else
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
used when the man or boy doing the action is also its object
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading How Sir Kolbein of Norway came by his death-wound.
How
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading How Sir Kolbein of Norway came by his death-wound.
used to add a contrasting statement
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
inflictverbUS /ˌɪnˈflɪkt/
impose something unpleasant
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
interposed
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/
moving to the inside of something
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
and nothing more
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
originally a person of noble birth trained to arms and chivalry; today in Great Britain a person honored by the sovereign for personal merit
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
Kolbein
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading How Sir Kolbein of Norway came by his death-wound.
immediately past
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
set afire or burning
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
the act of directing the eyes toward something and perceiving it visually
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
characterized by or producing sound of great volume or intensity
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
being nothing more than specified
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
a particular point in time
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
subject to death
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
an old word for “no”
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
and not; used after a negative to add a second negative
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
NormannounUS /ˈnɔːrmən/
United States operatic soprano (born in 1945)
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
NorwaynounUS /ˈnɔːrweɪ/
a constitutional monarchy in northern Europe on the western side of the Scandinavian Peninsula; achieved independence from Sweden in 1905
From this reading How Sir Kolbein of Norway came by his death-wound.
used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
in the historical present; at this point in the narration of a series of past events
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
held or filled or in use
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading How Sir Kolbein of Norway came by his death-wound.
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
used to join alternatives or possibilities
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
Otto
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
win a victory over
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
perceiveverbUS /pərˈsiːv/
to become aware of through the senses
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
ponderousadjectiveUS /ˈpɑːndərəs/
slow and laborious because of weight
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
capable of happening or existing
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
having great power or force or potency or effect
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
prostrateverbUS /ˈprɑːstreɪt/
get into a prostrate position, as in submission
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
to a degree (not used with a negative)
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
rapiditynounUS /rəˈpɪdəti/
a rate that is rapid
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
reach a destination, either real or abstract
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
completely prepared or in condition for immediate action or use or progress
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
reflectverbUS /rɪˈflekt/
manifest or bring back
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
ringingnounUS /ˈrɪŋɪŋ/
the sound of a bell ringing
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
a lump or mass of hard consolidated mineral matter
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
rockyadjectiveUS /ˈrɑːki/
abounding in rocks or stones
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
except for; apart from
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
only a very short time before
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
sea-monarch
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
shieldnounUS /ʃiːld/
a protective covering or structure
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
being or characteristic of a single thing or person
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
term of address for a man
From this reading How Sir Kolbein of Norway came by his death-wound.
for that reason; with the result that
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
a point located with respect to surface features of some region
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
past form of “start” — take the first step or steps in carrying out an action
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
having a sharp inclination
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
stranger'snounUS /ˈstreɪndʒərz/
possessive form of “stranger” — anyone who does not belong in the environment in which they are found
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
happening without warning or in a short space of time
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
of a quantity that can fulfill a need or requirement but without being abundant
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
summitnounUS /ˈsʌmət/
the highest level or degree attainable; the highest stage of development
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
Swerker
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
a cutting or thrusting weapon that has a long metal blade and a hilt with a hand guard
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
great in vertical dimension; high in stature
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
belonging to the people or things already mentioned
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
(used to introduce a logical conclusion) from that fact or reason or as a result
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
up to a particular time
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
an instance or single occasion for some event
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
consistent with fact or reality; not false
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
warriornounUS /ˈwɔːriər/
someone engaged in or experienced in warfare
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
watch-tower
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
weaponsnounUS /ˈwepənz/
plural of “weapon” — any instrument or instrumentality used in fighting or hunting
From this reading Swerker, however, had not allowed himself time to reflect;--with the activity of a true Norman, he had in a moment flown to the fatal spot, and now interposed his sword betwixt the fallen knight and his adversary’s battle-axe, so that both weapons started asunder, and were broken into fragments.
wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/
the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
at the time that
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
WhileconjunctionUS /waɪl/
during the time that
From this reading While they were thus occupied, all of a sudden their attention was attracted by a loud ringing of armour and clashing of arms from the rocky cliff which Sir Archimbald had chosen for a watch-tower.
wieldedverbUS /ˈwiːldɪd/
past form of “wield” — have and exercise
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
in the company of; together with
From this reading Looking up, they all beheld how the count had engaged in single combat with a tall powerful warrior; nay, their eyes lighted on him just at the moment when he was almost quite overcome;--when the stranger’s enormous brazen shield was forced against his breast and forehead, till at last he fell prostrate on the cliff, and his adversary wielded a ponderous battle-axe ready to inflict a mortal blow.
used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past
From this reading Scarcely could they feel assured that all this was not a mere delusion of enchantment; nor did Sir Otto or the sea-monarch perceive how it would be possible to reach the summit of that steep rock with sufficient rapidity to save the count.
