Every word is available to listen to. Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.
adeterminerUS /ə/
used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
admits
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From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
ago
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
allowed
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From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
amusement
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From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
andeterminerUS /æn/
the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound
From this reading Murray, we are told, might have been an Ovid, but he preferred to be Lord Chief Justice, and to wear ermine instead of bays.
ancientadjectiveUS /ˈeɪn.ʃənt/
Belonging to the very distant past and no longer in existence or deeply revered.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
andconjunctionUS /ənd/
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/
the form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading Murray, we are told, might have been an Ovid, but he preferred to be Lord Chief Justice, and to wear ermine instead of bays.
asconjunctionUS /æz/
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
atprepositionUS /æt/
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
attention
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
bays
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Murray, we are told, might have been an Ovid, but he preferred to be Lord Chief Justice, and to wear ermine instead of bays.
beauxiliary verbUS /biː/
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
become
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/
the past participle of “be”
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
belonged
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
butconjunctionUS /bʌt/
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
byprepositionUS /baɪ/
showing who or what does the action
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
Chief
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Murray, we are told, might have been an Ovid, but he preferred to be Lord Chief Justice, and to wear ermine instead of bays.
coffee-houses
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
comfort
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
complied
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
considered
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
couldmodal verbUS /kʊd/
the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
country
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
crowd
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
demanded
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
desired
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
dinner
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
disciples
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
down
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
drudge
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
enough
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
ermine
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Murray, we are told, might have been an Ovid, but he preferred to be Lord Chief Justice, and to wear ermine instead of bays.
Esmond
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From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
exacting
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
exclusive
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
file
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
firstnounUS /first/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
forprepositionUS /fɔːr/
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
frequenting
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
gentlemannounUS /ˈgentleman/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
gentlemennounUS /gentlemen/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
George
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
gives
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
gown
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
hall-commons
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
hasauxiliary verbUS /hæz/
the form of “have” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/
used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
hepronounUS /hiː/
a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
health
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
heard
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
herdeterminerUS /hɜːr/
belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
himpronounUS /hɪm/
the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
himselfpronounUS /hɪmˈself/
used when the man or boy doing the action is also its object
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
holiday-making
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
home
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
hundred
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
inprepositionUS /ɪn/
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
injunction
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
instead
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Murray, we are told, might have been an Ovid, but he preferred to be Lord Chief Justice, and to wear ermine instead of bays.
instruction
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
interfere
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
jealous
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
just
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
Justice
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Murray, we are told, might have been an Ovid, but he preferred to be Lord Chief Justice, and to wear ermine instead of bays.
law
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
legal
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
leisure
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
letters
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
like
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
Lord
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Murray, we are told, might have been an Ovid, but he preferred to be Lord Chief Justice, and to wear ermine instead of bays.
Madam
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
man
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
maymodal verbUS /meɪ/
used to say something is possible, or to give permission
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
means
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
mere
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
mightmodal verbUS /maɪt/
used to say something is possible but not certain
From this reading Murray, we are told, might have been an Ovid, but he preferred to be Lord Chief Justice, and to wear ermine instead of bays.
mistress
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
more
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
much
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
Murray
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Murray, we are told, might have been an Ovid, but he preferred to be Lord Chief Justice, and to wear ermine instead of bays.
namenounUS /name/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
namelessadjectiveUS /ˈneɪm.ləs/
Having no name, or having a name that is kept secret or unknown.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
nodeterminerUS /noʊ/
not any; not one
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
notadverbUS /nɑːt/
used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
nowadays
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From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
obediently
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
obstruct
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From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
ofprepositionUS /ʌv/
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
onepronounUS /wʌn/
used to mean any person in general, including the speaker
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/
used to join alternatives or possibilities
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
out
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From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
Ovid
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From this reading Murray, we are told, might have been an Ovid, but he preferred to be Lord Chief Justice, and to wear ermine instead of bays.
own
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
people
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From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
persons
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From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
pleasure
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From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
pleasures
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
pointed
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From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
preciousadjectiveUS /ˈpreʃəs/
rare and worth a great deal
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
preferred
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Murray, we are told, might have been an Ovid, but he preferred to be Lord Chief Justice, and to wear ermine instead of bays.
pretty
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
professional
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
punch
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From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
rank
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From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
recreation
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From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
said
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
sate
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From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
scarceadjectiveUS /skɛrs/
hard to find or in short supply
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
service
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
shepronounUS /ʃiː/
a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
sinceprepositionUS /sɪns/
from a time in the past until now
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
sleep
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
soconjunctionUS /soʊ/
for that reason; with the result that
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
some
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
stillnounUS /still/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
student's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
studies
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
study
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
supportverbUS /səˈpɔːrt/
to provide what someone needs in order to live
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
takenounUS /take/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
thanconjunctionUS /ðæn/
used to introduce the second part of a comparison
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
thedeterminerUS /ðə/
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/
used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
thoughconjunctionUS /ðoʊ/
in spite of the fact that
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
timenounUS /time/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
toparticleUS /tuː/
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
toldnounUS /told/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Murray, we are told, might have been an Ovid, but he preferred to be Lord Chief Justice, and to wear ermine instead of bays.
very
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
volunteer
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
votaries
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
Warrington
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
wepronounUS /wiː/
the speaker together with one or more other people
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
wear
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Murray, we are told, might have been an Ovid, but he preferred to be Lord Chief Justice, and to wear ermine instead of bays.
whenconjunctionUS /wen/
at the time that
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
whompronounUS /huːm/
the form of “who” used as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
withprepositionUS /wɪð/
in the company of; together with
From this reading George Warrington by no means allowed his legal studies to obstruct his comfort and pleasures, or interfere with his precious health.
wore
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/
used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past
From this reading Madam Esmond had pointed out to him in her letters that though he wore a student's gown, and sate down with a crowd of nameless people to hall-commons, he had himself a name, and a very ancient one, to support, and could take rank with the first persons at home or in his own country; and desired that he would study as a gentleman, not a mere professional drudge.
years
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Though not so exacting as she since has become--though she allowed her disciples much more leisure, much more pleasure, much more punch, much more frequenting of coffee-houses and holiday-making, than she admits nowadays, when she scarce gives her votaries time for amusement, recreation, instruction, sleep, or dinner--the law a hundred years ago was still a jealous mistress, and demanded a pretty exclusive attention.
young
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading With this injunction the young man complied obediently enough: so that he may be said not to have belonged to the rank and file of the law, but may be considered to have been a volunteer in her service, like some young gentlemen of whom we have just heard.
