Chapter VI · Chapter 6

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

a record or narrative description of past events

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

farther along in physical or mental development

From this reading However he entered on his course with spirit; and for some time advanced without much difficulty.

(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

Having no one else present.

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

prior to a specified or implied time

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

regard something as probable or likely

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

one or some or every or all without specification

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

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

From this reading Wher dwellen ye, if it to tellen be?

for the reason that

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

earlier than; in front of

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

at or toward the back of something

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

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

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

(comparative of “good”) superior to another (of the same class or set or kind) in excellence or quality or desirability or suitability; more highly skilled than another

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

people who have severe visual impairments, considered as a group

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

a committee having supervisory powers

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

an officer holding a rank below a major but above a lieutenant

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

inflected form of “carry” — move while supporting, either in a vehicle or in one's hands or on one's body

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

English poet remembered as author of the Canterbury Tales (1340-1400)

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

your overall circumstances or condition in life (including everything that happens to you)

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

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

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

a politically organized body of people under a single government

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

education imparted in a series of lessons or meetings

From this reading However he entered on his course with spirit; and for some time advanced without much difficulty.

the condition of being susceptible to harm or injury

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

take upon oneself; act presumptuously, without permission

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

an effort that is inconvenient

From this reading However he entered on his course with spirit; and for some time advanced without much difficulty.

increase twofold

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

the time of day immediately following sunset

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading Wher dwellen ye, if it to tellen be?

a division of the United Kingdom

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

past form of “enter” — to come or go into

From this reading However he entered on his course with spirit; and for some time advanced without much difficulty.

undergo or live through a difficult experience

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

preceding all others in time or space or degree

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

the part of the leg of a human being below the ankle joint

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

set up or found

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

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

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

plural of “hill” — a local and well-defined elevation of the land

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

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

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

used to add a contrasting statement

From this reading However he entered on his course with spirit; and for some time advanced without much difficulty.

characteristic of humanity

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading Wher dwellen ye, if it to tellen be?

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading Wher dwellen ye, if it to tellen be?

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

complex system of paths or tunnels in which it is easy to get lost

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

plural of “lane” — a narrow way or road

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

a chronic inflammatory collagen disease affecting connective tissue (skin or joints)

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

has a good chance of being the case or of coming about

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

structures collectively in which people are housed

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

-ing form of “lurk” — lie in wait, lie in ambush, behave in a sneaky and secretive manner

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

engage in

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

(comparative of “much” used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning greater in size or amount or extent or degree

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

having hills and crags

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

to a great degree or extent

From this reading However he entered on his course with spirit; and for some time advanced without much difficulty.

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

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

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

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

have ownership or possession of

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

furnished with people

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

completely and without qualification; used informally as intensifiers

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

trouble or confusion resulting from complexity

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

a new word formed by joining two others and combining their meanings

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

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

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

the state of being present; current existence

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

a measure of how likely it is that some event will occur; a number expressing the ratio of favorable cases to the whole number of cases possible

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

a search for an alternative that meets cognitive criteria

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

interpret something that is written or printed

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

the extended spatial location of something

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

any address at which you dwell more than temporarily

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

characterized by socially or conventionally acceptable morals

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

a protective covering that covers or forms the top of a building

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

express in words

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

only a very short time before

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

in the second place

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

get by special effort

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

plural of “shape” — any spatial attributes (especially as defined by outline)

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

the general state of things; the combination of circumstances at a given time

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

(quantifier) used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

the vital principle or animating force within living things

From this reading However he entered on his course with spirit; and for some time advanced without much difficulty.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

inflected form of “teach” — impart skills or knowledge to

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

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

From this reading Wher dwellen ye, if it to tellen be?

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

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

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

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

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

from one end or side of something to the other

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

an instance or single occasion for some event

From this reading However he entered on his course with spirit; and for some time advanced without much difficulty.

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

From this reading Wher dwellen ye, if it to tellen be?

plural of “torrent” — a heavy rain

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

an urban area with a fixed boundary that is smaller than a city

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

not knowledgeable about something specified

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

below or beneath something; less than

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

any venturesome undertaking especially one with an uncertain outcome

From this reading Under these circumstances he had to go in quest of a lodging for the night; and this, from all that he had read of England, on a double account he could scarcely venture to anticipate under any respectable roof; first because he was on foot, and secondly because he carried his own portmanteau.

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

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

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

From this reading Wher dwellen ye, if it to tellen be?

in contrast with the fact that

From this reading In the subarbes of a town, quod he, Lurking in bernes and in lanes blind Whereas thise robbours and thise theves by kinde Holden hir privee fereful residence As they that dare not shewen hir presence,-- So faren we, if I shal say the sothe.--_Chaucer._

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

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

in the company of; together with

From this reading Bertram now found himself in a situation of some perplexity: he was alone; perfectly unacquainted with the country; it was already dusk, and he had to make his way through a labyrinth of hills which was likely to present danger in more shapes than one: his experience on board Captain le Harnois had taught him that he was not perfectly secure from behind; and before him was a mountainous region--better peopled in all probability with precipices and torrents than with human habitations.

not having, not using, or not accompanied by

From this reading However he entered on his course with spirit; and for some time advanced without much difficulty.

an old word for “you”, speaking to more than one person

From this reading Wher dwellen ye, if it to tellen be?