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 A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
aboutprepositionUS /əˈbaʊt/
on the subject of; concerning
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
andconjunctionUS /ənd/
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
anxiety
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/
the form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
asconjunctionUS /æz/
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
asks
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
begin
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
belief
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
break
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
breakfast-table
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
butconjunctionUS /bʌt/
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
cannot
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From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
caused
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
chill
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
cleared
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
closes
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From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
consoling
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
daughter
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
day's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
daylight
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
distressnounUS /dɪˈstrɛs/
extreme sadness or suffering
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
enow
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
exclamation
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
exhausted
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
eyes
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
fain
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
firm
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
footstep
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
forprepositionUS /fɔːr/
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
forgive
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
fruitless
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
gleams
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
greatnounUS /great/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
hangs
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
hasauxiliary verbUS /hæz/
the form of “have” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/
used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
heard
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
heart
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
heavy
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
herdeterminerUS /hɜːr/
belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
herselfpronounUS /hərˈself/
used when the woman or girl doing the action is also its object
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
ifconjunctionUS /ɪf/
on condition that; in the event that
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
ill
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
inprepositionUS /ɪn/
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/
the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
itpronounUS /ɪt/
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
itsdeterminerUS /ɪts/
belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
Jenny
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
kirk
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
languor
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
lastnounUS /last/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
Laurie
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
lightened
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
like
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
littlenounUS /little/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
London
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
looks
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
man
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
melancholy
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
Menie
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
Menie's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
mindnounUS /mind/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
morningnounUS /morning/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
Mrs
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
mysteriousadjectiveUS /mɪˈstɪriəs/
difficult to explain or understand
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
night
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
ofprepositionUS /ʌv/
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
onprepositionUS /ɑːn/
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
only
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
ony
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/
used to join alternatives or possibilities
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
out
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
path
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
perceive
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
perpetually
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
pitiful
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
poornounUS /poor/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
prayed
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
questions
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
quiet
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
restrain
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
Sabbath
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
seen
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
self-questionings
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
shepronounUS /ʃiː/
a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
shock
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
smiles
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
softly
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
solicitous
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
SomethingpronounUS /ˈsʌmθɪŋ/
a thing, without saying which
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
speak
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
spirit
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
stay
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
steals
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
storm
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
stupor
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
suggestive
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
tender
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
thedeterminerUS /ðə/
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
thempronounUS /ðem/
the people or things already mentioned, as the object
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
there
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
thesedeterminerUS /ðiːz/
the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
TheypronounUS /ðeɪ/
the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/
used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
tillprepositionUS /tɪl/
up to a particular time
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
timenounUS /time/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
toparticleUS /tuː/
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
touches
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
trouble
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
turns
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
unawares
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
uneasy
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/
a formal word for “on”
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
very
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
wearily
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/
the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
whenconjunctionUS /wen/
at the time that
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
whetherconjunctionUS /ˈweðər/
used to introduce two or more possibilities
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
whopronounUS /huː/
which person or people
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
wild
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
willmodal verbUS /wɪl/
used to talk about the future, or about willingness
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
withprepositionUS /wɪð/
in the company of; together with
From this reading A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
words
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Mrs Laurie, uneasy and solicitous, cannot stay these pitiful looks which unawares she turns upon her daughter, and hangs perpetually about her with tender touches, consoling words, and smiles, till poor Menie’s heart is like to break.
work
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
wornverbUS /wɔːrn/
Damaged or thinned by continuous use.
From this reading Something of languor is in this chill morning, as its quiet footstep steals upon the path of the exhausted storm--something worn out and heavy are Menie’s eyes, as she closes them, wearily upon the daylight when Jenny has cleared the little breakfast-table, and it is time for the day’s work to begin.
wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/
used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past
From this reading A heavy stupor is on Menie’s mind, lightened only with gleams of wild anxiety, with fruitless self-questionings, which she fain would restrain, but cannot.
youpronounUS /juː/
the person or people being spoken to
From this reading They speak to her softly, you will perceive, and are very tender of Menie, as if she were ill, and Jenny cannot forgive herself for the shock that her exclamation caused last night.
young
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Jenny, firm in the belief that she has seen a spirit, is melancholy and mysterious, and asks suggestive questions--whether they have heard if there is “ony great trouble in London ’enow,” or who it was that was prayed for in the kirk last Sabbath--a young man in great distress.
