Chapter XII

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

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

(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 But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

Having no one else present.

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

following the length of something from one end toward the other

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

prior to a specified or implied time

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

in addition

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

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

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

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

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

Roman general under Julius Caesar in the Gallic wars; repudiated his wife for the Egyptian queen Cleopatra; they were defeated by Octavian at Actium (83-30 BC)

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

one or some or every or all without specification

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

take a court case to a higher court for review

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

move towards

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

past form of “approach” — move towards

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

the month following March and preceding May

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

inflected form of “arise” — come into existence; take on form or shape

From this reading When Anthony knocked at the door and entered her room, she arose, with a smile, to greet him; and he found himself mute.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

a particular environment or surrounding influence

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

past form of “balk” — refuse to comply

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

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

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

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

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

marked by strong resentment or cynicism

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

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

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

past form of “blunder” — commit a faux pas or a fault or make a serious mistake

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

plural of “blunder” — an embarrassing mistake

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

-ing form of “brighten” — make more cheerful through the use of color

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

a decorative pin worn by women

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

inflected form of “bring” — take something or somebody with oneself somewhere

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

the trait of extreme cruelty

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

capability to perform or produce

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

of or relating to the life and times of kings Charles I or Charles II of England

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

an occurrence of something

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

indicating a lack of maturity

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

in a clumsy manner

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

the act of drawing spatially closer to something

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

perform an act, usually with a negative connotation

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

the total spent for goods or services including money and time and labor

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

delicately beautiful

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

the time during which someone's life continues

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

the event of dying or departure from life

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

recognizable; marked

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

exquisitely fine and subtle and pleasing; susceptible to injury

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

the past form of “do”, used in questions and negatives

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

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

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

a swinging or sliding barrier that will close the entrance to a room or building or vehicle

From this reading When Anthony knocked at the door and entered her room, she arose, with a smile, to greet him; and he found himself mute.

to double the degree

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

plural of “drag” — the phenomenon of resistance to motion through a fluid

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

in or associated with the process of passing from life or ceasing to be

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

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

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

a hostile meeting of opposing military forces in the course of a war

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

deeply involved especially in something complicated

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

past form of “enter” — to come or go into

From this reading When Anthony knocked at the door and entered her room, she arose, with a smile, to greet him; and he found himself mute.

divisible by two

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

intense or sharp

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

opinion or judgment

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

bringing death

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

a diagram or picture illustrating textual material

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

the trait of acting stupidly or rashly

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

set up or found

From this reading When Anthony knocked at the door and entered her room, she arose, with a smile, to greet him; and he found himself mute.

a distinctive odor that is pleasant

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

worry unnecessarily or excessively

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

having frets

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

inflected form of “fret” — worry unnecessarily or excessively

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

to or at a greater extent or degree or a more advanced stage (“further” is used more often than “farther” in this abstract sense)

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

the act of acquiring something

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

long and light rowing boat; especially for racing

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

a young female

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

a woman's dress, usually with a close-fitting bodice and a long flared skirt, often worn on formal occasions

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

(physics) the force of attraction between all masses in the universe; especially the attraction of the earth's mass for bodies near its surface

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

express greetings upon meeting someone

From this reading When Anthony knocked at the door and entered her room, she arose, with a smile, to greet him; and he found himself mute.

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

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

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

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned

From this reading When Anthony knocked at the door and entered her room, she arose, with a smile, to greet him; and he found himself mute.

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

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

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

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

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

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

with impatience; in an impatient manner

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

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

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

not in keeping with accepted standards of what is right or proper in polite society

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

doubt concerning two or more possible alternatives or courses of action

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

an anticipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned actions

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

moving to the inside of something

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

having or demonstrating ability to recognize or draw fine distinctions

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

past form of “knock” — deliver a sharp blow or push

From this reading When Anthony knocked at the door and entered her room, she arose, with a smile, to greet him; and he found himself mute.

possessive form of “lady” — a polite name for any woman

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

immediately past

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

the act of departing

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

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

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

produced by a manufacturing process

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

of greater importance or stature or rank

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

the act that results in something coming to be

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

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

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

march in a procession

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

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

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

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

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

used to form the superlative

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

expressed without speech

From this reading When Anthony knocked at the door and entered her room, she arose, with a smile, to greet him; and he found himself mute.

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

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

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

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

and nothing more

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

very light colored; highly diluted with white

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

detected by instinct or inference rather than by recognized perceptual cues

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

the property of sound that varies with variation in the frequency of vibration

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

plural of “prospect” — the possibility of future success

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

a message issued in behalf of some product or cause or idea or person or institution

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

hitting a golf ball that is on the green using a putter

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

an area within a building enclosed by walls and floor and ceiling

From this reading When Anthony knocked at the door and entered her room, she arose, with a smile, to greet him; and he found himself mute.

an elaborate and systematic plan of action

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

perception by means of the eyes

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

limited to or caring only about yourself and your own needs

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

established or decided beyond dispute or doubt

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

a painful emotion resulting from an awareness of inadequacy or guilt

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading When Anthony knocked at the door and entered her room, she arose, with a smile, to greet him; and he found himself mute.

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

plural of “skirt” — cloth covering that forms the part of a garment below the waist

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

being of delicate or slender build

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

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

From this reading When Anthony knocked at the door and entered her room, she arose, with a smile, to greet him; and he found himself mute.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

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

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

the act of delivering a formal spoken communication to an audience

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

make a mess of, destroy or ruin

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

being definitely out of the ordinary and unexpected; slightly odd or even a bit weird

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

the subject matter of a conversation or discussion

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

difficult to detect or grasp by the mind or analyze

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

happening unexpectedly

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

understood in a certain way; made sense of

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

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

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

the process of using your mind to consider something carefully

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

from one end or side of something to the other

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

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

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

an instance or single occasion for some event

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

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

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

male cat

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

a formal word for “on”

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

compelling immediate action

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

(often used as a combining form) in a good or proper or satisfactory manner or to a high standard (“good” is a nonstandard dialectal variant for “well”)

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

used to ask for information about something

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

change directions as if revolving on a pivot

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

at the time that

From this reading When Anthony knocked at the door and entered her room, she arose, with a smile, to greet him; and he found himself mute.

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

From this reading _Wherein Tom Folly blunders along in his Self-centred Gig--and drags a Dainty Little Lady’s Skirts into the Wheel_ Anthony fretted at the death of the Major--fretted at the publicity--fretted at the time of the man’s dying, and the manner; for he had decided to appeal to Betty not to spoil Noll’s prospects, now so suddenly brightening, by getting him entangled in a childish engagement.

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

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

to a complete degree or to the full or entire extent (“whole” is often used informally for “wholly”)

From this reading But Modeyne’s death made it wholly indecent to approach the already so indecent subject for some time; made it in any case the more difficult to broach at all; made it also more urgent that it should be approached.

used to talk about the future, or about willingness

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

plural of “wind” — air moving (sometimes with considerable force) from an area of high pressure to an area of low pressure

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.

in the company of; together with

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

the state of being an adult woman

From this reading And, to fret the will with further indecision, Anthony, his eyes intent upon the pale girl in the simple black gown, and balked by the strange gravity that had settled upon the slim dainty figure, perceived the exquisite approach, the delicate fragrance and most subtle atmosphere of the coming of womanhood--an atmosphere which made it doubly difficult for him to commit himself to putting into the brutality of speech what cost him shame even in the thinking.

used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past

From this reading Had he only taken Caroline into his scheme, he would not have blundered thus clumsily into a brutality; but he did not--and, with his fatal capacity for not leaving well alone, fretting impatiently through the keen bitter winds of March and the early days of April, he at last brought himself to the pitch of seeing the girl alone and making his appeal.