Every word is available to listen to. Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.
adeterminerUS /ə/
used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
account
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From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
adequate
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From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
afterprepositionUS /ˈæftər/
later than; following
From this reading At that early day, and for a long while after, the boy had no preference for any particular kind of book.
all
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
almost
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
alreadynounUS /already/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
andeterminerUS /æn/
the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
ANDconjunctionUS /ənd/
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
any
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
architect
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
asconjunctionUS /æz/
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
atprepositionUS /æt/
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
beauxiliary verbUS /biː/
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
beforeprepositionUS /bɪˈfɔːr/
earlier than; in front of
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
beingauxiliary verbUS /ˈbiːɪŋ/
the -ing form of “be”
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
book
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
booksnounUS /bʊks/
Bound written or printed works.
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
boy
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading At that early day, and for a long while after, the boy had no preference for any particular kind of book.
butconjunctionUS /bʌt/
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
byprepositionUS /baɪ/
showing who or what does the action
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
character
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
child
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
choice
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
CHOOSEnounUS /choose/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
comenounUS /come/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
couldmodal verbUS /kʊd/
the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
curious
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
day
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading At that early day, and for a long while after, the boy had no preference for any particular kind of book.
desirable
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
distinction
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
distinctions
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
doauxiliary verbUS /duː/
used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
donenounUS /done/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
doubtless
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
early
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading At that early day, and for a long while after, the boy had no preference for any particular kind of book.
earthly
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
eitherdeterminerUS /ˈiːðər/
one or the other of two
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
engineer
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
evidently
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
explanation
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
face
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
fact
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
fascinations
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
fathers
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
field
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
firstnounUS /first/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
forprepositionUS /fɔːr/
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
form
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
fromprepositionUS /frʌm/
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
gilt
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
glamour
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
hardly
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/
used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
hepronounUS /hiː/
a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
Henry
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
himpronounUS /hɪm/
the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
hint
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
honours
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
HoweveradverbUS /ˌhaʊˈevər/
used to add a contrasting statement
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
hungers
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
ignorantnounUS /ˈignorant/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
inprepositionUS /ɪn/
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
inheritance
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
instinct
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/
moving to the inside of something
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/
the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
itpronounUS /ɪt/
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
itsdeterminerUS /ɪts/
belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
James
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
kind
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading At that early day, and for a long while after, the boy had no preference for any particular kind of book.
LAFLIN
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
letters
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
life's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
longnounUS /long/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading At that early day, and for a long while after, the boy had no preference for any particular kind of book.
loved
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
makenounUS /make/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
many
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
Mary
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
maymodal verbUS /meɪ/
used to say something is possible, or to give permission
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
Mesurier
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
MIKE
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
mindnounUS /mind/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
most
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
mothers
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
namenounUS /name/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
nodeterminerUS /noʊ/
not any; not one
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
nothingpronounUS /ˈnʌθɪŋ/
not one thing; not anything
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
occupations
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
OFprepositionUS /ʌv/
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
onepronounUS /wʌn/
used to mean any person in general, including the speaker
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
one's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/
used to join alternatives or possibilities
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
out
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
outsidenounUS /ˈoutside/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
particular
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading At that early day, and for a long while after, the boy had no preference for any particular kind of book.
peculiar
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
poetry
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
preference
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading At that early day, and for a long while after, the boy had no preference for any particular kind of book.
print
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
printednounUS /printed/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
PROFESSIONS
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
read
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
real
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
remains
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
result
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
romance
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
sailor
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
samenounUS /same/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
seems
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
select
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
self
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
sermons
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
soconjunctionUS /soʊ/
for that reason; with the result that
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
soldier
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
special
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
splendid
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
stillnounUS /still/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
suchdeterminerUS /sʌtʃ/
of the kind already mentioned
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
suggestion
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
THATconjunctionUS /ðæt/
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
THEdeterminerUS /ðə/
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
theories
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
there
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
toparticleUS /tuː/
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
unaccountably
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
unerring
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
wepronounUS /wiː/
the speaker together with one or more other people
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
well
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/
the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
whatpronounUS /wʌt/
used to ask for information about something
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
whenconjunctionUS /wen/
at the time that
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading That Mary Mesurier loved poetry, and James Mesurier sermons, in face of the fact that so many mothers and fathers have done the same with no such result, hardly seems adequate to account for the peculiar glamour which, almost before he could read, there was for Henry Mesurier in any form of print.
WhileconjunctionUS /waɪl/
during the time that
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
willmodal verbUS /wɪl/
used to talk about the future, or about willingness
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
withprepositionUS /wɪð/
in the company of; together with
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
work
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading OF THE PROFESSIONS THAT CHOOSE, AND MIKE LAFLIN However we may hint at its explanation by theories of inheritance, it still remains curious with what unerring instinct a child of character will from the first, and when it is so evidently ignorant of the field of choice, select, out of all life's occupations and distinctions, one special work it hungers to do, one special distinction that to it seems the most desirable of earthly honours.
world
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/
used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
write
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading While books were still being read to him, there had already come into his mind, unaccountably, as by outside suggestion, that there could be nothing so splendid in the world as to write a book for one's self.
yourdeterminerUS /jɔːr/
belonging to the person or people being spoken to
From this reading To be either a soldier, a sailor, an architect, or an engineer, would, doubtless, have its fascinations as well; but to make a real printed book, with your name in gilt letters outside, was real romance.
