Chapter XXVII · Chapter 27

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

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

the state of being absent

From this reading But this could not continue indefinitely; at least he must speak to Ho-Pin in order to obtain leave of absence.

matters of personal concern

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

at all times; all the time and on every occasion

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

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

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

one or some or every or all without specification

From this reading “Excuse me, sir,” he said, confusedly, “but would there be any objection to my going out on Friday evening for an hour?”

from appearances alone

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

move towards

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

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

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading But this could not continue indefinitely; at least he must speak to Ho-Pin in order to obtain leave of absence.

approximating the statistical norm or average or expected value

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

stay clear from; keep away from; keep out of the way of someone or something

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

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

From this reading “Excuse me, sir,” he said, confusedly, “but would there be any objection to my going out on Friday evening for an hour?”

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

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

inflected form of “begin” — take the first step or steps in carrying out an action

From this reading For, since that unforgettable night, he had lived the life of a cave-man indeed, and now began to pine for the wider vault of heaven.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

plural of “catacomb” — an underground tunnel with recesses where bodies were buried (as in ancient Rome)

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

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

From this reading For, since that unforgettable night, he had lived the life of a cave-man indeed, and now began to pine for the wider vault of heaven.

(ethnic slur) offensive term for a person of Chinese descent

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

in a confused manner

From this reading “Excuse me, sir,” he said, confusedly, “but would there be any objection to my going out on Friday evening for an hour?”

continue a certain state, condition, or activity

From this reading But this could not continue indefinitely; at least he must speak to Ho-Pin in order to obtain leave of absence.

an enclosed passageway; rooms usually open onto it

From this reading Meeting the impassive Chinaman in the corridor one morning, on his way to valet one of the living dead, Soames ventured to stop him.

the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests

From this reading But this could not continue indefinitely; at least he must speak to Ho-Pin in order to obtain leave of absence.

the time during which someone's life continues

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

no longer having or seeming to have or expecting to have life

From this reading Meeting the impassive Chinaman in the corridor one morning, on his way to valet one of the living dead, Soames ventured to stop him.

plural of “employer” — a person or firm that employs workers

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

the latter part of the day (the period of decreasing daylight from late afternoon until nightfall)

From this reading “Excuse me, sir,” he said, confusedly, “but would there be any objection to my going out on Friday evening for an hour?”

at any time

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

accept an excuse for

From this reading “Excuse me, sir,” he said, confusedly, “but would there be any objection to my going out on Friday evening for an hour?”

past form of “fear” — be afraid or feel anxious or apprehensive about a possible or probable situation or event

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

experiencing or showing fear

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

plural of “fear” — an emotion experienced in anticipation of some specific pain or danger (usually accompanied by a desire to flee or fight)

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

the act of determining the properties of something, usually by research or calculation

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading For, since that unforgettable night, he had lived the life of a cave-man indeed, and now began to pine for the wider vault of heaven.

the sixth day of the week; the fifth working day

From this reading “Excuse me, sir,” he said, confusedly, “but would there be any objection to my going out on Friday evening for an hour?”

the act of departing

From this reading “Excuse me, sir,” he said, confusedly, “but would there be any objection to my going out on Friday evening for an hour?”

the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect

From this reading For, since that unforgettable night, he had lived the life of a cave-man indeed, and now began to pine for the wider vault of heaven.

enjoying or showing or marked by joy or pleasure

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

any place of complete bliss and delight and peace

From this reading For, since that unforgettable night, he had lived the life of a cave-man indeed, and now began to pine for the wider vault of heaven.

lacking decisiveness of character; unable to act or decide quickly or firmly

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading Meeting the impassive Chinaman in the corridor one morning, on his way to valet one of the living dead, Soames ventured to stop him.

used when the man or boy doing the action is also its object

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

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

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

a period of time equal to 1/24th of a day

From this reading “Excuse me, sir,” he said, confusedly, “but would there be any objection to my going out on Friday evening for an hour?”

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

having or revealing little emotion or sensibility; not easily aroused or excited

From this reading Meeting the impassive Chinaman in the corridor one morning, on his way to valet one of the living dead, Soames ventured to stop him.

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

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

in truth (often tends to intensify)

From this reading For, since that unforgettable night, he had lived the life of a cave-man indeed, and now began to pine for the wider vault of heaven.

to an indefinite extent; for an indefinite time

From this reading But this could not continue indefinitely; at least he must speak to Ho-Pin in order to obtain leave of absence.

a message received and understood

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

(especially of promises or contracts) not violated or disregarded

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

the superlative of “little” that can be used with mass nouns and is usually preceded by “the”; a quantifier meaning smallest in amount or extent or degree

From this reading But this could not continue indefinitely; at least he must speak to Ho-Pin in order to obtain leave of absence.

go away from a place

From this reading But this could not continue indefinitely; at least he must speak to Ho-Pin in order to obtain leave of absence.

a characteristic state or mode of living

From this reading For, since that unforgettable night, he had lived the life of a cave-man indeed, and now began to pine for the wider vault of heaven.

past form of “live” — be an inhabitant of or reside in

From this reading For, since that unforgettable night, he had lived the life of a cave-man indeed, and now began to pine for the wider vault of heaven.

the experience of being alive; the course of human events and activities

From this reading Meeting the impassive Chinaman in the corridor one morning, on his way to valet one of the living dead, Soames ventured to stop him.

an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

a vaguely specified concern

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

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

From this reading “Excuse me, sir,” he said, confusedly, “but would there be any objection to my going out on Friday evening for an hour?”

a formally arranged gathering

From this reading Meeting the impassive Chinaman in the corridor one morning, on his way to valet one of the living dead, Soames ventured to stop him.

the time period between dawn and noon

From this reading Meeting the impassive Chinaman in the corridor one morning, on his way to valet one of the living dead, Soames ventured to stop him.

used to say something is necessary, or almost certainly true

From this reading But this could not continue indefinitely; at least he must speak to Ho-Pin in order to obtain leave of absence.

belonging to the person speaking

From this reading “Excuse me, sir,” he said, confusedly, “but would there be any objection to my going out on Friday evening for an hour?”

the time after sunset and before sunrise while it is dark outside

From this reading For, since that unforgettable night, he had lived the life of a cave-man indeed, and now began to pine for the wider vault of heaven.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading But this could not continue indefinitely; at least he must speak to Ho-Pin in order to obtain leave of absence.

in the historical present; at this point in the narration of a series of past events

From this reading For, since that unforgettable night, he had lived the life of a cave-man indeed, and now began to pine for the wider vault of heaven.

the act of expressing earnest opposition or protest

From this reading “Excuse me, sir,” he said, confusedly, “but would there be any objection to my going out on Friday evening for an hour?”

come into possession of

From this reading But this could not continue indefinitely; at least he must speak to Ho-Pin in order to obtain leave of absence.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading Meeting the impassive Chinaman in the corridor one morning, on his way to valet one of the living dead, Soames ventured to stop him.

and nothing more

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

(often plural) a command given by a superior (e.g., a military or law enforcement officer) that must be obeyed

From this reading But this could not continue indefinitely; at least he must speak to Ho-Pin in order to obtain leave of absence.

in other respects or ways

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading “Excuse me, sir,” he said, confusedly, “but would there be any objection to my going out on Friday evening for an hour?”

past form of “pass” — go across or through

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

a coniferous tree

From this reading For, since that unforgettable night, he had lived the life of a cave-man indeed, and now began to pine for the wider vault of heaven.

(law) the institution of a sequence of steps by which legal judgments are invoked

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

being the one previously mentioned or spoken of

From this reading “Excuse me, sir,” he said, confusedly, “but would there be any objection to my going out on Friday evening for an hour?”

Identical; not different.

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

have in common; held or experienced in common

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

from a time in the past until now

From this reading For, since that unforgettable night, he had lived the life of a cave-man indeed, and now began to pine for the wider vault of heaven.

term of address for a man

From this reading “Excuse me, sir,” he said, confusedly, “but would there be any objection to my going out on Friday evening for an hour?”

a facial expression characterized by turning up the corners of the mouth; usually shows pleasure or amusement

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

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

From this reading Meeting the impassive Chinaman in the corridor one morning, on his way to valet one of the living dead, Soames ventured to stop him.

express in speech

From this reading But this could not continue indefinitely; at least he must speak to Ho-Pin in order to obtain leave of absence.

come to a halt, stop moving

From this reading Meeting the impassive Chinaman in the corridor one morning, on his way to valet one of the living dead, Soames ventured to stop him.

large southern European spider once thought to be the cause of tarantism (uncontrollable bodily movement)

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

trying something to find out about it

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

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

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

in or at that place or location

From this reading “Excuse me, sir,” he said, confusedly, “but would there be any objection to my going out on Friday evening for an hour?”

used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned

From this reading But this could not continue indefinitely; at least he must speak to Ho-Pin in order to obtain leave of absence.

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

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

to a degree exceeding normal or proper limits

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

lacking or indicating lack of confidence or assurance

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

impossible to forget

From this reading For, since that unforgettable night, he had lived the life of a cave-man indeed, and now began to pine for the wider vault of heaven.

not interfered with, disturbed, or harmed

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

occurring or encountered or experienced or observed frequently or in accordance with regular practice or procedure

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

a manservant who acts as a personal attendant to his employer

From this reading Meeting the impassive Chinaman in the corridor one morning, on his way to valet one of the living dead, Soames ventured to stop him.

An arched structure of masonry forming a ceiling, or a secure subterranean storage room.

From this reading For, since that unforgettable night, he had lived the life of a cave-man indeed, and now began to pine for the wider vault of heaven.

past form of “venture” — proceed somewhere despite the risk of possible dangers

From this reading Meeting the impassive Chinaman in the corridor one morning, on his way to valet one of the living dead, Soames ventured to stop him.

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

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

comparative of “wide” — having great (or a certain) extent from one side to the other

From this reading For, since that unforgettable night, he had lived the life of a cave-man indeed, and now began to pine for the wider vault of heaven.

in the company of; together with

From this reading He feared Ho-Pin in the same way that an average man fears a tarantula, and he was only too happy to avoid the ever smiling Chinaman; so that the days passed on, and, finding himself unmolested and the affairs of the catacombs proceeding apparently as usual, he kept his information to himself, uncertain if he shared it with his employers or otherwise, but hesitating to put the matter to the test--always fearful to approach Ho-Pin, the beetlesque.

used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past

From this reading “Excuse me, sir,” he said, confusedly, “but would there be any objection to my going out on Friday evening for an hour?”