Every word is available to listen to. Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.
adeterminerUS /ə/
used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
abundant
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
acknowledged
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
all
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
andeterminerUS /æn/
the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
andconjunctionUS /ənd/
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
any
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
aristocracy
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
asconjunctionUS /æz/
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
aside
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
atprepositionUS /æt/
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
attached
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
attendant
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
black
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
brilliancy
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
brilliant
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
BrokennounUS /broken/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
ButconjunctionUS /bʌt/
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
byprepositionUS /baɪ/
showing who or what does the action
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
came
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
caps
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
cards
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
commercial
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
condescending
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
conservatory
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
cool
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
couples
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
crape
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
dance
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
danced
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
dancing
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
drawing-room
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
dress
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
duly
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
eachdeterminerUS /iːtʃ/
every one of two or more people or things, taken separately
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
end
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
evennounUS /even/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
excuse
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
extreme
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
figures
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
firstnounUS /first/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
flowers
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
focus
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
forprepositionUS /fɔːr/
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
forgottenadjectiveUS /fərˈɡɑːt.n̩/
Not remembered; lapsed from memory.
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
forwardnounUS /forward/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
gentility
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
glad
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
grand
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
guardians
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
Guests
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/
used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
heart
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
heavy
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
herdeterminerUS /hɜːr/
belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
higher
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
horrible
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
House
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
ill
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
illumination
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
inprepositionUS /ɪn/
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
including
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
inspiration
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/
moving to the inside of something
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/
the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
itpronounUS /ɪt/
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
laid
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
leftnounUS /left/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
lengthnounUS /leŋθ/
a period of time or extent
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
library
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
lights
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
limbs
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
limits
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
longnounUS /long/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
longing
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
lookednounUS /looked/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
Lucy
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
Maggie
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
many
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
maturity
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
member
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
Miss
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
more
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
music
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
nodeterminerUS /noʊ/
not any; not one
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
occasion
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
occasional
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
ofprepositionUS /ʌv/
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
off
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
Ogg's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
onepronounUS /wʌn/
used to mean any person in general, including the speaker
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
opened
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
opening
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
other
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
parents
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
Park
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
parties
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
personal
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
persuade
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
piano
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
pretty
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
professional
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
queen
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
refused
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
retreat
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
rooms
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
saying
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
school
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
second
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
Seems
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From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
set
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
shepronounUS /ʃiː/
a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
sinceprepositionUS /sɪns/
from a time in the past until now
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
sitting-room
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
sixteen
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
slimness
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
soconjunctionUS /soʊ/
for that reason; with the result that
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
soberadjectiveUS /ˈsoʊbər/
not affected by alcohol
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
Spell
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
splendorsplural nounUS /ˈsplendərz/
impressive and beautiful signs of wealth or importance
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
St
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
stretching
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
suite
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
thanconjunctionUS /ðæn/
used to introduce the second part of a comparison
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
ThedeterminerUS /ðə/
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/
used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
thoroughly
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
thoughconjunctionUS /ðoʊ/
in spite of the fact that
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
timenounUS /time/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
toparticleUS /tuː/
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
Torry
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
try
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
underprepositionUS /ˈʌndər/
below or beneath something; less than
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
up
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
walked
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
wentnounUS /went/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
whereconjunctionUS /wer/
in or at the place that
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading The focus of brilliancy was the long drawing-room, where the dancing went forward, under the inspiration of the grand piano; the library, into which it opened at one end, had the more sober illumination of maturity, with caps and cards; and at the other end the pretty sitting-room, with a conservatory attached, was left as an occasional cool retreat.
white
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
whopronounUS /huː/
which person or people
From this reading Lucy, who had laid aside her black for the first time, and had her pretty slimness set off by an abundant dress of white crape, was the acknowledged queen of the occasion; for this was one of the Miss Guests’ thoroughly condescending parties, including no member of any aristocracy higher than that of St Ogg’s, and stretching to the extreme limits of commercial and professional gentility.
withprepositionUS /wɪð/
in the company of; together with
From this reading The Spell Seems Broken The suite of rooms opening into each other at Park House looked duly brilliant with lights and flowers and the personal splendors of sixteen couples, with attendant parents and guardians.
wrought
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
years
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Maggie at first refused to dance, saying that she had forgotten all the figures—it was so many years since she had danced at school; and she was glad to have that excuse, for it is ill dancing with a heavy heart.
young
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But at length the music wrought in her young limbs, and the longing came; even though it was the horrible young Torry, who walked up a second time to try and persuade her.
