10
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
15
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
20
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
25
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
30
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
35
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
5
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
abideverbUS /əˈbaɪd/
dwell
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
adown
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
aerynoun
the lofty nest of a bird of prey (such as a hawk or eagle)
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
anew
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
Ah
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
alliedadjectiveUS /əˈlaɪd/
related by common characteristics or ancestry
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
answersnounUS /ˈænsərz/
plural of “answer” — a statement (either spoken or written) that is made to reply to a question or request or criticism or accusation
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/
the form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
attirenounUS /əˈtaɪər/
clothing of a distinctive style or for a particular occasion
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
AttunedverbUS /əˈtuːnd/
past form of “attune” — adjust or accustom to; bring into harmony with
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
have
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
beguiledadjectiveUS /bɪˈɡaɪld/
filled with wonder and delight
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
Belovèd
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
bestowverbUS /bɪˈstoʊ/
present
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
the time when something begins (especially life)
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
blazingadjectiveUS /ˈbleɪzɪŋ/
shining intensely
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
blissnounUS /blɪs/
a state of extreme happiness
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
blossomsnounUS /ˈblɑːsəmz/
plural of “blossom” — reproductive organ of angiosperm plants especially one having showy or colorful parts
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
brought into existence
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
bowernounUS /ˈbaʊər/
a framework that supports climbing plants
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
bowersnounUS /ˈbaʊərz/
plural of “bower” — a framework that supports climbing plants
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
possessing or displaying courage; able to face and deal with danger or fear without flinching
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
the bodily process of inhalation and exhalation; the process of taking in oxygen from inhaled air and releasing carbon dioxide by exhalation
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
showing who or what does the action
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
inflected form of “catch” — discover or come upon accidentally, suddenly, or unexpectedly; catch somebody doing something or in a certain state
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
past form of “cease” — put an end to a state or an activity
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
CellnounUS /sel/
A small stone room in a prison where an inmate is locked behind iron bars.
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
cause to change; make different; cause a transformation
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
give encouragement to
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
clusteringnounUS /ˈklʌstərɪŋ/
a grouping of a number of similar things
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
plural of “come” — the thick white fluid containing spermatozoa that is ejaculated by the male genital tract
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
compassionnounUS /kəmˈpæʃən/
a deep awareness of and sympathy for another's suffering
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
(usually plural) everything that is included in a collection and that is held or included in something
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
a flow of electricity through a conductor
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
dartverbUS /dɑːrt/
move along rapidly and lightly; skim or dart
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
dearly loved
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
DEDICATORY
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
defencenounUS /dɪˈfens/
(psychiatry) an unconscious process that tries to reduce the anxiety associated with instinctive desires
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
dellnounUS /del/
a small wooded hollow
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
the feeling that accompanies an unsatisfied state
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
Didauxiliary verbUS /dɪd/
the past form of “do”, used in questions and negatives
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
dissolveverbUS /dɪˈzɑːlv/
become weaker
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
drearyadjectiveUS /ˈdrɪri/
lacking in liveliness or charm or surprise
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
every one of two or more people or things, taken separately
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
the 3rd planet from the sun; the planet we live on
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
EmblemnounUS /ˈembləm/
special design or visual object representing a quality, type, group, etc.
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
EPISTLEnounUS /ɪˈpɪsəl/
a specially long, formal letter
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
faerynoun
a small being, human in form, playful and having magical powers
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
past form of “fail” — fail to do something; leave something undone
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
free from favoritism or self-interest or bias or deception; conforming with established standards or rules
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
steadfast in affection or allegiance
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
fanciesnounUS /ˈfænsiz/
plural of “fancy” — something many people believe that is false
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
something many people believe that is false
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
fictionnounUS /ˈfɪkʃən/
a literary work based on the imagination and not necessarily on fact
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
fineradjectiveUS /ˈfaɪnər/
(comparative of “fine”) greater in quality or excellence
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
start firing a weapon
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
flownounUS /floʊ/
the motion characteristic of fluids (liquids or gases)
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
fraughtadjectiveUS /frɔːt/
marked by distress
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
grant freedom to; free from confinement
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
the ripened reproductive body of a seed plant
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
galesnounUS /ɡeɪlz/
plural of “gale” — a strong wind moving 45-90 knots; force 7 to 10 on Beaufort scale
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
bright and pleasant; promoting a feeling of cheer
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
soft and mild; not harsh or stern or severe
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
cause to have, in the abstract sense or physical sense
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
green color or pigment; resembling the color of growing grass
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
griefs
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
haplyadverb
by accident
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
perceive (sound) via the auditory sense
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
the locus of feelings and intuitions
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
heart'snounUS /hɑːrts/
possessive form of “heart” — the locus of feelings and intuitions
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
Heaven'snounUS /ˈhevənz/
possessive form of “heaven” — any place of complete bliss and delight and peace
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
heavenlyadjectiveUS /ˈhevənli/
relating to or inhabiting a divine heaven
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
herbagenoun
succulent herbaceous vegetation of pasture land
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
greater than normal in degree or intensity or amount
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
a local and well-defined elevation of the land
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
How
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
a power to affect persons or events especially power based on prestige etc
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
innocencenounUS /ˈɪnəsəns/
the quality of innocent naivete
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
free from evil or guilt
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
inspirationnounUS /ˌɪnspərˈeɪʃən/
arousal of the mind to special unusual activity or creativity
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
the emotion of great happiness
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
originally a person of noble birth trained to arms and chivalry; today in Great Britain a person honored by the sovereign for personal merit
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
LambnounUS /læm/
young sheep
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
lamentableadjectiveUS /ləˈmentəbəl/
bad; unfortunate
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
put into a certain place or abstract location
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
go away from a place
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
diode such that light emitted at a p-n junction is proportional to the bias current; color depends on the material used
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
a characteristic state or mode of living
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
prefer or wish to do something
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
a formation of people or things one beside another
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
large gregarious predatory feline of Africa and India having a tawny coat with a shaggy mane in the male
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
Lord'snounUS /lɔːrdz/
possessive form of “lord” — terms referring to the Judeo-Christian God
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
less than normal in degree or intensity or amount
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
lowlyadjectiveUS /ˈloʊli/
low or inferior in station or quality
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
loyaladjectiveUS /ˈlɔɪəl/
steadfast in allegiance or duty
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
any art that invokes supernatural powers
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
used to say something is possible, or to give permission
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
MeekadjectiveUS /miːk/
humble in spirit or manner; suggesting retiring mildness or even cowed submissiveness
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
meeklyadverbUS /ˈmiːkli/
in a submissive or spiritless manner
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
melodynounUS /ˈmelədi/
a succession of notes forming a distinctive sequence
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
MidadjectiveUS /mɪd/
used in combination to denote the middle
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
mildadjectiveUS /maɪld/
moderate in type or degree or effect or force; far from extreme
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
milk-whiteadjective
of a white the color of fresh milk
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
miraclenounUS /ˈmɪrəkəl/
any amazing or wonderful occurrence
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
(comparative of “much” used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning greater in size or amount or extent or degree
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
subject to death
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
the use of movements (especially of the hands) to communicate familiar or prearranged signals
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
muteadjectiveUS /mjuːt/
expressed without speech
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
near in time or place or relationship
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
(of actions or states) slightly short of or not quite accomplished; all but
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
plural of “note” — a brief written record
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
o'eradverb
throughout a period of time
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
OftadverbUS /ɔːft/
many times at short intervals
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
on one occasion
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
used to join alternatives or possibilities
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
belonging to the speaker and others
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
overprepositionUS /ˈoʊvər/
above and across; more than
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
pangnounUS /pæŋ/
a sudden sharp feeling
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
pangsnounUS /pæŋz/
plural of “pang” — a sudden sharp feeling
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
partakeverbUS /pɑːrˈteɪk/
have some of the qualities or attributes of something
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
pensiveadjectiveUS /ˈpensɪv/
deeply or seriously thoughtful
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
piercedadjectiveUS /pɪrst/
having a hole cut through
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
pleasingadjectiveUS /ˈpliːzɪŋ/
giving pleasure and satisfaction
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
a fundamental feeling that is hard to define but that people desire to experience
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
characterized by feeling or showing fond affection for
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
prizedverbUS /praɪzd/
past form of “prize” — hold dear
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
promisingadjectiveUS /ˈprɑːməsɪŋ/
showing possibility of achievement or excellence
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
interpret something that is written or printed
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
rebelnounUS /ˈrebəl/
“Johnny” was applied as a nickname for Confederate soldiers by the Federal soldiers in the American Civil War; “greyback” derived from their grey Confederate uniforms
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
plural of “rose” — any of many shrubs of the genus Rosa that bear roses
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
rusticadjectiveUS /ˈrʌstɪk/
characteristic of rural life
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
1/60 of a minute; the basic unit of time adopted under the Systeme International d'Unites
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
concerned with religion or religious purposes
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
experiencing or showing sorrow or unhappiness
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
a reason for wanting something done
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
try to get or reach
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
sereneadjectiveUS /sərˈiːn/
not agitated; without losing self-possession
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
get rid of
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
shellnounUS /ʃel/
ammunition consisting of a cylindrical metal casing containing an explosive charge and a projectile; fired from a large gun
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
hit with a missile from a weapon
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
slainnounUS /sleɪn/
people who have been slain (as in battle)
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
smartadjectiveUS /smɑːrt/
showing mental alertness and calculation and resourcefulness
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
precipitation falling from clouds in the form of ice crystals
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
soberadjectiveUS /ˈsoʊbər/
not affected by a chemical substance (especially alcohol)
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
yielding readily to pressure or weight
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
(quantifier) used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
soothedverbUS /suːðd/
past form of “soothe” — give moral or emotional strength to
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
an emotion of great sadness associated with loss or bereavement
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
sorrow's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
the immaterial part of a person; the actuating cause of an individual life
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
speciousadjectiveUS /ˈspiːʃəs/
plausible but false
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
orally recite the letters of or give the spelling of
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
Spenser'snounUS /ˈspensərz/
possessive form of “spenser” — English poet who wrote an allegorical romance celebrating Elizabeth I in the Spenserian stanza (1552-1599)
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
the vital principle or animating force within living things
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
a natural body of running water flowing on or under the earth
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
past form of “suffer” — undergo or be subjected to
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
inflected form of “teach” — impart skills or knowledge to
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
separate or cause to separate abruptly
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
temptverbUS /tempt/
dispose or incline or entice to
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
thrillingadjectiveUS /ˈθrɪlɪŋ/
causing a surge of emotion or excitement
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
up to a particular time
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
timelyadjectiveUS /ˈtaɪmli/
before a time limit expires
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
timidadjectiveUS /ˈtɪmɪd/
showing fear and lack of confidence
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
in contact with each other or in proximity
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
plural of “trouble” — a source of difficulty
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
Una
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
unmeritedadjective
not merited or deserved
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
the speaker and others, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
the distinctive quality or pitch or condition of a person's speech
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
past form of “wander” — move about aimlessly or without any destination, often in search of food or employment
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
migratory
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
the speaker together with one or more other people
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
weddedadjectiveUS /ˈwedɪd/
having been taken in marriage
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
inflected form of “go” — change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/
the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
at the time that
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
which person or people
From this reading Ah, then, Belovèd, pleasing was the smart, And the tear precious in compassion shed 10 For Her, who, pierced by sorrow's thrilling dart, Did meekly bear the pang unmerited; Meek as that Emblem of her lowly heart The milk-white Lamb, which in a line she led, And faithful, loyal in her innocence, 15 Like the brave Lion slain in her defence.
belonging to which person
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
marked by extreme lack of restraint or control
From this reading For us the stream of fiction ceased to flow, 25 For us the voice of melody was mute: But as soft gales dissolve the dreary snow, And give the timid herbage leave to shoot, Heaven's breathing spirit failed not to bestow Its timely influence--promising fair fruit 30 Of pensive pleasure and serene content, From blossoms wild of fancies innocent.
disposed or inclined toward
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
the coldest season of the year; in the northern hemisphere it extends from the winter solstice to the vernal equinox
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
accumulated knowledge or erudition or enlightenment
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
in the company of; together with
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
the words that are spoken
From this reading Notes could we hear as of a faery shell Attuned to words with sacred wisdom fraught; Free fancy prized each specious miracle, And all its finer inspiration caught 20 Mid the green bower, and in our rustic Cell; Till we by lamentable change were taught That bliss with mortal man may not abide, How nearly joy and sorrow are allied![S]
wroughtadjectiveUS /rɔːt/
shaped to fit by or as if by altering the contours of a pliable mass (as by work or effort)
From this reading It soothed us--it beguiled us--then, to hear Once more of troubles wrought by magic spell, And griefs whose aery motion comes not near 35 The pangs that tempt the spirit to rebel; Then, with mild Una in her sober cheer, High over hill and low adown the dell Again we wandered, willing to partake All that she suffered for her dear Lord's sake.
a late time of life
From this reading EPISTLE DEDICATORY When years of wedded life were as a day Whose current answers to the heart's desire, Oft in some bowers, with clustering roses gay, Or haply by the blazing winter fire, Did we together read in Spenser's Lay 5 How Una, sad of soul, in sad attire, The gentle Una, born of heavenly birth, To seek her knight went wandering o'er the earth.
