Chapter II · Chapter 2

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

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

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

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

(of actions or states) slightly short of or not quite accomplished; all but

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

in spite of the fact that

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

consider in detail and subject to an analysis in order to discover essential features or meaning

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

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

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

the form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

plural of “article” — nonfictional prose forming an independent part of a publication

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

at the same time that; because; in the way that

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

having undesirable or negative qualities

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

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

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

for the reason that

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

take the first step or steps in carrying out an action

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

the organic process of bearing flowers

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

Bound written or printed works.

From this reading Even from the humor of women found in books it is hard to quote--not because there is so little, but because there is so much.

of surpassing excellence

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

rub with a brush, or as if with a brush

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

plural of “call” — a telephone connection

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

move while supporting, either in a vehicle or in one's hands or on one's body

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

definite but not specified or identified

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

persuaded of; very sure

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

(of something seen or heard) clearly defined

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

a person who is professionally engaged in the analysis and interpretation of works of art

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

a cynical feeling of distrust

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

a position on a scale of intensity or amount or quality

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

carefully thought out in advance

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

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

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

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

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

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

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

absolutely necessary; vitally necessary

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

divisible by two

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

plural of “example” — an item of information that is typical of a class or group

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

have an existence, be extant

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

third-person singular of “exist” — have an existence, be extant

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

mat together and make felt-like

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

for a limitless time

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

from a particular thing or place or position (“forth” is obsolete)

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

set up or found

From this reading Even from the humor of women found in books it is hard to quote--not because there is so little, but because there is so much.

the Romance language spoken in France and in countries colonized by France

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

productive or conducive to producing in abundance

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

plural of “ghost” — a mental representation of some haunting experience

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

an alert and refreshed state

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

having desirable or positive qualities especially those suitable for a thing specified

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

let have

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

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

From this reading Even from the humor of women found in books it is hard to quote--not because there is so little, but because there is so much.

continually recurring to the mind

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

superlative of “high” — greater than normal in degree or intensity or amount

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

a person who invites guests to a social event (such as a party in his or her own home) and who is responsible for them while they are there

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

a message whose ingenuity or verbal skill or incongruity has the power to evoke laughter

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

not capable of occurring or being accomplished or dealt with

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

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

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

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

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

prefer or wish to do something

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

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

From this reading Even from the humor of women found in books it is hard to quote--not because there is so little, but because there is so much.

come into being; become reality

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

the person speaking, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

a feeling of thoughtful sadness

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

used to say something is possible but not certain

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

used to form the superlative

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

to a great degree or extent

From this reading Even from the humor of women found in books it is hard to quote--not because there is so little, but because there is so much.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

an event that occurs at a critical time

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

and nothing more

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

literature in metrical form

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

have as an attribute, knowledge, or skill

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

indicating exactness or preciseness

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

plural of “pun” — a humorous play on words

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

plural of “quality” — an essential and distinguishing attribute of something or someone

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

an essential and distinguishing attribute of something or someone

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

to a degree (not used with a negative)

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

repeat a passage from

From this reading Even from the humor of women found in books it is hard to quote--not because there is so little, but because there is so much.

superlative of “rare” — not widely known; especially valued for its uncommonness

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

plural of “recollection” — the ability to recall past occurrences

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

plural of “result” — a phenomenon that follows and is caused by some previous phenomenon

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

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

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

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

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

past form of “rouse” — become active

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

try to locate or discover, or try to establish the existence of

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

third-person singular of “seem” — give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

of superior grade

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

a general conscious awareness

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

plural of “sentence” — a string of words satisfying the grammatical rules of a language

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

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

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading Even from the humor of women found in books it is hard to quote--not because there is so little, but because there is so much.

shining with brilliant points of light like stars

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

a message that is stated or declared; a communication (oral or written) setting forth particulars or facts etc

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

an impression that something might be the case

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

any piece of work that is undertaken or attempted

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

something that seduces or has the quality to seduce

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

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

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

in or at that place or location

From this reading Even from the humor of women found in books it is hard to quote--not because there is so little, but because there is so much.

the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

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

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

the quality of a person's voice

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

make an effort or attempt

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

hard to endure

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one or a numeral representing this number

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

not prepared or planned in advance

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

British general and statesman; he defeated Napoleon at Waterloo; subsequently served as Prime Minister (1769-1852)

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

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

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

a Caucasian

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

a message whose ingenuity or verbal skill or incongruity has the power to evoke laughter

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

in the company of; together with

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

combining clever conception and facetious expression

From this reading To begin a deliberate search for wit seems almost like trying to be witty: a task quite certain to brush the bloom from even the most fruitful results.

an adult female person (as opposed to a man)

From this reading But the statement of Richard Grant White, that humor is the "rarest of qualities in woman," roused such a host of brilliant recollections that it was a temptation to try to materialize the ghosts that were haunting me; to lay forever the suspicion that they did not exist.

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

From this reading Two articles by Alice Wellington Rollins in the _Critic_, on "Woman's Sense of Humor" and "The Humor of Women," convinced me that the deliberate task might not be impossible to carry out, although I felt, as she did, that the humor and wit of women are difficult to analyze, and select examples, precisely because they possess in the highest degree that almost essential quality of wit, the unpremeditated glow which exists only with the occasion that calls it forth.

plural of “woman” — an adult female person (as opposed to a man)

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.

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

From this reading THE MELANCHOLY TONE OF WOMEN'S POETRY--PUNS, GOOD AND BAD--EPIGRAMS AND LACONICS--CYNICISM OF FRENCH WOMEN--SENTENCES CRISP AND SPARKLING.