AdeterminerUS /ə/
used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
aboutprepositionUS /əˈbaʊt/
on the subject of; concerning
From this reading Captain Poke no longer deliberated about the course we were to steer.
affirmednounUS /əˈfɜːrmd/
thoroughbred that won the triple crown in 1978
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
AfterprepositionUS /ˈæftər/
later than; following
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
andeterminerUS /æn/
the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
ANDconjunctionUS /ənd/
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
appearedverbUS /əˈpɪrd/
past form of “appear” — give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
asconjunctionUS /æz/
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
atprepositionUS /æt/
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
beauxiliary verbUS /biː/
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
beforeprepositionUS /bɪˈfɔːr/
earlier than; in front of
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
billowsnounUS /ˈbɪloʊz/
plural of “billow” — a large sea wave
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
boldlyadverbUS /ˈboʊldli/
with boldness, in a bold manner
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
bornadjectiveUS /bɔːrn/
brought into existence
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
bredverbUS /bred/
inflected form of “breed” — call forth
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
byprepositionUS /baɪ/
showing who or what does the action
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
Canadas
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
CaptainnounUS /ˈkæptən/
an officer holding a rank below a major but above a lieutenant
From this reading Captain Poke no longer deliberated about the course we were to steer.
CERTAINadjectiveUS /ˈsɜːrtən/
definite but not specified or identified
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
chartnounUS /tʃɑːrt/
a visual display of information
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
CLEARverbUS /klɪr/
rid of obstructions
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
compassnounUS /ˈkʌmpəs/
navigational instrument for finding directions
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
contractedadjectiveUS /ˈkɑːntræktəd/
reduced in size or pulled together
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
coursenounUS /kɔːrs/
education imparted in a series of lessons or meetings
From this reading Captain Poke no longer deliberated about the course we were to steer.
coursingnounUS /ˈkɔːrsɪŋ/
hunting with dogs (usually greyhounds) that are trained to chase game (such as hares) by sight instead of by scent
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
daynounUS /deɪ/
time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
deadadjectiveUS /ded/
no longer having or seeming to have or expecting to have life
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
decknounUS /dek/
any of various platforms built into a vessel
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
deliberatedverbUS /dɪˈlɪbəreɪtɪd/
past form of “deliberate” — think about carefully; weigh
From this reading Captain Poke no longer deliberated about the course we were to steer.
deliveredverbUS /dɪˈlɪvərd/
past form of “deliver” — deliver (a speech, oration, or idea)
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
DOCKnounUS /dɑːk/
an enclosure in a court of law where the defendant sits during the trial
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
earlyadjectiveUS /ˈɜːrli/
at or near the beginning of a period of time or course of events or before the usual or expected time
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
facenounUS /feɪs/
the front of the human head from the forehead to the chin and ear to ear
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
forprepositionUS /fɔːr/
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
galenounUS /ɡeɪl/
a strong wind moving 45-90 knots; force 7 to 10 on Beaufort scale
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
GAUNTLETnounUS /ˈɡɔːntlət/
to offer or accept a challenge
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
GOverbUS /ɡoʊ/
change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
habitnounUS /ˈhæbət/
an established custom
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
hepronounUS /hiː/
a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
himselfpronounUS /hɪmˈself/
used when the man or boy doing the action is also its object
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
hitchingverbUS /ˈhɪtʃɪŋ/
-ing form of “hitch” — to hook or entangle
From this reading “We shall soon know, Sir John,” he observed, hitching the sea-lion skin into symmetry, “whether it is sink or swim!”
HOW
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
ifconjunctionUS /ɪf/
on condition that; in the event that
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
inprepositionUS /ɪn/
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
instinctnounUS /ˈɪnstɪŋkt/
inborn pattern of behavior often responsive to specific stimuli
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/
moving to the inside of something
From this reading “We shall soon know, Sir John,” he observed, hitching the sea-lion skin into symmetry, “whether it is sink or swim!”
inveterateadjectiveUS /ˌɪnˈvetərət/
habitual
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/
the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading “We shall soon know, Sir John,” he observed, hitching the sea-lion skin into symmetry, “whether it is sink or swim!”
itpronounUS /ɪt/
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
itsdeterminerUS /ɪts/
belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
JohnnounUS /dʒɑːn/
a room or building equipped with one or more toilets
From this reading “We shall soon know, Sir John,” he observed, hitching the sea-lion skin into symmetry, “whether it is sink or swim!”
knowverbUS /noʊ/
be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about
From this reading “We shall soon know, Sir John,” he observed, hitching the sea-lion skin into symmetry, “whether it is sink or swim!”
knowinglyadverbUS /ˈnoʊɪŋli/
with full knowledge and deliberation
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
leastadjectiveUS /liːst/
the superlative of “little” that can be used with mass nouns and is usually preceded by “the”; a quantifier meaning smallest in amount or extent or degree
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
loadedadjectiveUS /ˈloʊdɪd/
filled with a great quantity
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
longeradverbUS /ˈlɔːŋɡər/
for more time
From this reading Captain Poke no longer deliberated about the course we were to steer.
meaningnounUS /ˈmiːnɪŋ/
the message that is intended or expressed or signified
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
MILE-STONES
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
mindnounUS /maɪnd/
The element of a person that enables awareness and thought.
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
moreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/
(comparative of “much” used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning greater in size or amount or extent or degree
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
mostadverbUS /moʊst/
used to form the superlative
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
NEW-FASHIONED
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
nightnounUS /naɪt/
the time after sunset and before sunrise while it is dark outside
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
nodeterminerUS /noʊ/
not any; not one
From this reading Captain Poke no longer deliberated about the course we were to steer.
northernounUS /ˈnɔːrðər/
a wind that blows from the north
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
nosenounUS /noʊz/
the organ of smell and entrance to the respiratory tract; the prominent part of the face of man or other mammals
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
observationnounUS /ˌɑːbzərˈveɪʃən/
the act of making and recording a measurement
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
observedadjectiveUS /əbˈzɜːrvd/
discovered or determined by scientific observation
From this reading “We shall soon know, Sir John,” he observed, hitching the sea-lion skin into symmetry, “whether it is sink or swim!”
ofprepositionUS /ʌv/
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
onprepositionUS /ɑːn/
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
onceadverbUS /wʌns/
on one occasion
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/
used to join alternatives or possibilities
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
overprepositionUS /ˈoʊvər/
above and across; more than
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
ownverbUS /oʊn/
have ownership or possession of
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
PokeverbUS /poʊk/
poke or thrust abruptly
From this reading Captain Poke no longer deliberated about the course we were to steer.
probablyadverbUS /ˈprɑːbəbliː/
with considerable certainty; without much doubt
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
provedadjectiveUS /pruːvd/
established beyond doubt
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
pumpkinnounUS /ˈpʌmpkɪn/
a coarse vine widely cultivated for its large pulpy round orange fruit with firm orange skin and numerous seeds; subspecies of Cucurbita pepo include the summer squashes and a few autumn squashes
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
quiteadverbUS /kwaɪt/
to a degree (not used with a negative)
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
ranverbUS /ræn/
inflected form of “run” — move fast by using one's feet, with one foot off the ground at any given time
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
ratenounUS /reɪt/
a magnitude or frequency relative to a time unit
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
reflectionsnounUS /rɪˈflekʃənz/
plural of “reflection” — a calm, lengthy, intent consideration
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
RUNverbUS /rʌn/
move fast by using one's feet, with one foot off the ground at any given time
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
SCREWnounUS /skruː/
someone who guards prisoners
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
sea-lion
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading “We shall soon know, Sir John,” he observed, hitching the sea-lion skin into symmetry, “whether it is sink or swim!”
sealernounUS /ˈsiːlər/
a kind of sealing material that is used to form a hard coating on a porous surface (as a coat of paint or varnish used to size a surface)
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
seemedverbUS /siːmd/
past form of “seem” — give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
sentimentnounUS /ˈsentəmənt/
tender, romantic, or nostalgic feeling or emotion
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
shallmodal verbUS /ʃæl/
used with I and we for the future, or to offer and suggest
From this reading “We shall soon know, Sir John,” he observed, hitching the sea-lion skin into symmetry, “whether it is sink or swim!”
SHIPverbUS /ʃɪp/
transport commercially
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
sinkverbUS /sɪŋk/
fall or descend to a lower place or level
From this reading “We shall soon know, Sir John,” he observed, hitching the sea-lion skin into symmetry, “whether it is sink or swim!”
SirnounUS /sɜːr/
term of address for a man
From this reading “We shall soon know, Sir John,” he observed, hitching the sea-lion skin into symmetry, “whether it is sink or swim!”
skinnounUS /skɪn/
a natural protective body covering and site of the sense of touch
From this reading “We shall soon know, Sir John,” he observed, hitching the sea-lion skin into symmetry, “whether it is sink or swim!”
SMALLadjectiveUS /smɔːl/
limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
soonadverbUS /suːn/
in the near future
From this reading “We shall soon know, Sir John,” he observed, hitching the sea-lion skin into symmetry, “whether it is sink or swim!”
southwardadverbUS /ˈsaʊθwərd/
toward the south
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
STEERverbUS /stɪr/
direct the course; determine the direction of travelling
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
stiffadjectiveUS /stɪf/
not moving or operating freely
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
stoodverbUS /stʊd/
Maintained an upright posture.
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
Stunin'tun
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
sturdyadjectiveUS /ˈstɜːrdi/
having rugged physical strength; inured to fatigue or hardships
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
swimverbUS /swɪm/
travel through water
From this reading “We shall soon know, Sir John,” he observed, hitching the sea-lion skin into symmetry, “whether it is sink or swim!”
symmetrynounUS /ˈsɪmətri/
(mathematics) an attribute of a shape or relation; exact reflection of form on opposite sides of a dividing line or plane
From this reading “We shall soon know, Sir John,” he observed, hitching the sea-lion skin into symmetry, “whether it is sink or swim!”
thanconjunctionUS /ðæn/
used to introduce the second part of a comparison
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
THEdeterminerUS /ðə/
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
thoroughbrednounUS /ˈθɜːroʊˈbred/
a well-bred person
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
TOparticleUS /tuː/
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
tremendousadjectiveUS /trəˈmendəs/
extraordinarily large in size or extent or amount or power or degree
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
trueadjectiveUS /truː/
consistent with fact or reality; not false
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
unusualadjectiveUS /əˈnjuːʒuːəl/
not usual or common or ordinary
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
wepronounUS /wiː/
the speaker together with one or more other people
From this reading Captain Poke no longer deliberated about the course we were to steer.
wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/
the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading Captain Poke no longer deliberated about the course we were to steer.
wheneverconjunctionUS /weˈnevər/
at any time that; every time that
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
whetherconjunctionUS /ˈweðər/
used to introduce two or more possibilities
From this reading “We shall soon know, Sir John,” he observed, hitching the sea-lion skin into symmetry, “whether it is sink or swim!”
whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading With his pumpkin for a chart, his instinct for an observation, and his nose for a compass, the sturdy sealer stood boldly to the southward; or, at least, he ran dead before a stiff gale, which, as he more than once affirmed, was as true a norther as if bred and born in the Canadas.
winkingnounUS /ˈwɪŋkɪŋ/
a reflex that closes and opens the eyes rapidly
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.
WITHprepositionUS /wɪð/
in the company of; together with
From this reading HOW TO STEER SMALL—HOW TO RUN THE GAUNTLET WITH A SHIP—HOW TO GO CLEAR—A NEW-FASHIONED SCREW—DOCK, AND CERTAIN MILE-STONES.
youthnounUS /juːθ/
a young person (especially a young man or boy)
From this reading After coursing over the billows at a tremendous rate for a day and a night, the captain appeared on deck, with a face of unusual meaning, and a mind loaded with its own reflections, as was proved by his winking knowingly whenever he delivered himself of a sentiment; a habit that he had most probably contracted, in early youth, at Stunin’tun, for it seemed to be quite as inveterate as it was thoroughbred.