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 It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
aboutprepositionUS /əˈbaʊt/
on the subject of; concerning
From this reading The only sign of comfort about me was a tray that stood on the table, containing a couple of bottles of wine and two glasses.
add
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
andeterminerUS /æn/
the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
andconjunctionUS /ənd/
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
anothernounUS /ˈanother/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
appearancenounUS /ˈappearance/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
asconjunctionUS /æz/
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
AstonishedadjectiveUS /əˈstɑːnɪʃt/
very surprised
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
atprepositionUS /æt/
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
back
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
beauxiliary verbUS /biː/
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
beforeprepositionUS /bɪˈfɔːr/
earlier than; in front of
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
best
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
better
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
black-walnut
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
blank
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
boast
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
bottles
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The only sign of comfort about me was a tray that stood on the table, containing a couple of bottles of wine and two glasses.
box
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
brand
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
burning
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
butconjunctionUS /bʌt/
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
byprepositionUS /baɪ/
showing who or what does the action
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
ceiling
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
chairs
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
cigars
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
clean
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
comfort
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The only sign of comfort about me was a tray that stood on the table, containing a couple of bottles of wine and two glasses.
communication
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
confoundedadjectiveUS /kənˈfaʊndɪd/
annoying or confusing
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
consideration
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
containing
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The only sign of comfort about me was a tray that stood on the table, containing a couple of bottles of wine and two glasses.
couldmodal verbUS /kʊd/
the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
couplenounUS /ˈkʌpəl/
two people or things considered together
From this reading The only sign of comfort about me was a tray that stood on the table, containing a couple of bottles of wine and two glasses.
cushioned
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
dilapidated
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
evennounUS /even/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
expanse
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
eye
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
fail
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
firstnounUS /first/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
fixture
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
forprepositionUS /fɔːr/
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
foreboding
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
forget
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
four
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
fromprepositionUS /frʌm/
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
full
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
furniture
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
gas
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
gave
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
generally
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
given
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
glance
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
glasses
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The only sign of comfort about me was a tray that stood on the table, containing a couple of bottles of wine and two glasses.
greatnounUS /great/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
hanging
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
helpnounUS /help/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
hospitality
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
IpronounUS /aɪ/
the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
impossible
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
inprepositionUS /ɪn/
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
invitingly
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
ItpronounUS /ɪt/
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
itsdeterminerUS /ɪts/
belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
jet
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
latter
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
lengthy
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
literally
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
mepronounUS /miː/
the person speaking, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
more
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
mydeterminerUS /maɪ/
belonging to the person speaking
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
near
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
nodeterminerUS /noʊ/
not any; not one
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
notadverbUS /nɑːt/
used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
nothingpronounUS /ˈnʌθɪŋ/
not one thing; not anything
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
observed
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
ofprepositionUS /ʌv/
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
offered
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
old-fashioned
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
onprepositionUS /ɑːn/
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading The only sign of comfort about me was a tray that stood on the table, containing a couple of bottles of wine and two glasses.
only
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
outsidenounUS /ˈoutside/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
perceive
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
place
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
prospect
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
purpose
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
reliefnounUS /rɪˈliːf/
a feeling of comfort after worry or pain
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
rested
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
room
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
shallmodal verbUS /ʃæl/
used with I and we for the future, or to offer and suggest
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
shout
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
shudder
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
sign
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The only sign of comfort about me was a tray that stood on the table, containing a couple of bottles of wine and two glasses.
single
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
small
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
soon
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
square
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
stay
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
stiff
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
stoodnounUS /stood/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading The only sign of comfort about me was a tray that stood on the table, containing a couple of bottles of wine and two glasses.
street
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
summon
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
surrounded
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
table
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
thanconjunctionUS /ðæn/
used to introduce the second part of a comparison
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
thedeterminerUS /ðə/
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
thesedeterminerUS /ðiːz/
the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
theypronounUS /ðeɪ/
the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/
used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
toparticleUS /tuː/
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
tokens
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
toldnounUS /told/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
tray
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The only sign of comfort about me was a tray that stood on the table, containing a couple of bottles of wine and two glasses.
two
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
unbroken
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
very
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
wall
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
walls
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
welfare
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Astonished at these tokens of consideration for my welfare, and confounded by the prospect which they offered of a lengthy stay in this place, I gave another great shout; but to no better purpose than before.
wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/
the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
whatpronounUS /wʌt/
used to ask for information about something
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading The bottles were full and the glasses clean, and to add to this appearance of hospitality a box of cigars rested invitingly near, which I could not fail to perceive, even at the first glance, were of the very best brand.
whileconjunctionUS /waɪl/
during the time that
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
white
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The single gas jet burning in a fixture hanging from the ceiling was the only relief given to the eye in the blank expanse of white wall that surrounded me; while as to furniture, the room could boast of nothing more than an old-fashioned black-walnut table and two chairs, the latter cushioned, but stiff in the back and generally dilapidated in appearance.
window
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
wine
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The only sign of comfort about me was a tray that stood on the table, containing a couple of bottles of wine and two glasses.
withprepositionUS /wɪð/
in the company of; together with
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
world
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/
used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past
From this reading It was a small square room, and I shall not soon forget with what a foreboding shudder I observed that its four blank walls were literally unbroken by a single window, for this told me that I was in no communication with the street, and that it would be impossible for me to summon help from the outside world.
