fYES. I Scarlet Cerise Lavender Ponceau Sultan Red Blues. f RIBBONS, WOOL, SILK, FEATHERS, Completely Dyed in 10 minutes, without soiling* the Hands. FULL INSTRUCTIONS SUPPLIED. JtJBSON’S DYES.— DYEING AT HOME.— JUD§ON’S sliple DYES are most useful and effectual. Bibbons, silks, feathers, scarfs, lace, braid, veils, hand- kerchiefs, clouds, bemouses, Shetland shawls, or any small articles of dress can easily be dyed in a fewminutes without soiling the hands, Violet, Magenta, Crimso*^ Mauve, Purple, Pink, Ponceau, Claret, thonsands as rating bt^Tpr^ge, who cO'uld not before take pre pared Coeoa, owing to its being too thick and ^ heavy. It consists solely of fine Cocoa Nibs, with the EXCESS of fatty matter ex- l^^^cted, and is, consequently, three times the strength of the pre- pared ” Cocoas so largely adver- tized, which often disagree with dyspeptic and delicate per- CADBURirS GHOGOLATE {In Blue Wrappery is guaranteed to solely of the finest Cocoa and sugar, slightly flavoured with Yanilla. Great care has been taken in its preparation, so that it may be depended upon as the best Choeolat'e,’ used either as a confection or as a beverage. MAKEES, by Special Appointment, TO THE QUEEN. Observe thdt Cadbury's Cocoa Essence f Registered) " is on each Packet, as inf erior descriptions are sometimes substituted. Observe.— When Cocoa thickens in the cup it proves the addition of Starch, BEETON’S NATIONAL FOR THE PEOPLE OF GRE The Cheapest and Best Refj Each containing fro)h Prico One Shilling, Wrapper ; U 1. BEETON’S BRITISH phical and Historical Guide to'the United Kingdom. Compiled from the Latest and best Authorities. It gives the most re- cent Improvements in Cities and Towns, states all the Railway Stations in the three Kingdoms, and nearest Post Towns and Money Order Offices, and the latest Official Populations. 2. BEETON’S BRITISH BIOGRAPHY. From the Earliest Times to the Accession of George III.' 3. BEETON’S MODERN MEN AND WOMEN. From ERENGE BGOKS AIN AND IRELAND. ’ Books in the World. GO Columns. '6d. ; Half Red Roan, 23. TEER. A Topogra- the Accession of George III. to the present time. 4. BEETON’S BIBLE DICTIONARY. A Cycloptedia of the Truths and Narratives of the Holy Scriptures. 6. BEETON’S CLASSICAL DICTIONARY. A Treasury of Greek and Roman Biography, Geography, Mythology, and Antiquities. 6. BEETON’S MEDICAL DICTIONARY. A Safe Guide for every Family, defining with perfect plainness the symp- toms and treatment of all ailments, illnesses, and diseases. 7. BEETON’S DATS BOOK. A British Chronology from the earliest records to the present period. 8. BEETON’S DICTIONARY of COMMERCE. 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It gires the most Recent Improvements in Cities and Towns; states all the Railway Stations in the Three Kingdoms, the nearest Post Towns and Money Order Offices, and the Latest Official Populations. BEETOIfS BRITISH BIOGRAPHY: From the Earliest Times to the Accession of G eorge HI. BRETON'S MODERN MEN AND WOMEN: A British Biography from the Accession of George III. to the present time. BRETONS BIBLE DICTIONARY : A Cyclopcedia of the Geography, Biograph j". Narratives, and Truths of Scripture. BEETON'S CLASSICAL DICTIONARY: A Cyclopaedia of Greek and Roman Biography, Geography, Mythology, and Antiquities. BEETON'S MEDICAL DICTIONARY: A Safe Guido for every Family, defining with perfect plainness the Symptoms and Treatment of all Ailments, Illnesses, and Disease.s. BEETON'S DATE BOOK: A British Chronology from the Earliest Records to the Ih-esent Day. BEETON'S DICTIONARY OF COMMERCE: A Book of Reference. Containing an Account of the Natural Productions and Manu- factures dealt with in the commercial world; Explanations of the principal Terms used in, and modes of transacting Business at Home and Abroad. BEETON'S MODERN EUROPEAN CELEBRITIES: A Biography of Continental Men ami Women of Note, -who have lived during the last Hundred A'ears, or are now living. LONDON: WARD, LOOK, & TYLER, PATERNOSTER ROW. lvu|, ((, 25 4 /\ tsi PREFACE. :o; HE title-page of this hook will sufficiently indicate its contents and purpose. It aspires to he, so far as the space it contains will allow, a complete “Dictionary of Every-Day Difficulties ” — an epitome of those terms, phrases, and expressions which continually puzzle the ordinary reader, and respecting whose meaning, scope, and derivation, he here finds himself enlightened, in the simplest and most concise manner, consistent with accuracy and clearness. Especially to the numerous class of self-educating students, who have not had the ad- vantage of finished instruction, or University experience, is it addressed. In our English language thousands of words and phrases are daily used hy persons who have no definite idea of the meaning of the terms they are employing, and ludicrous misapprehensions and strange blunders are the result, some of them suggestive of the immortal Mrs. Malaprop’s headstrong aHegonj on the banks of the Nile; or of that lady’s equally well-expressed wish that the^«5< may not 'hQ anticipated ; but that all retrospections may be reserved for the future. Such words, for instance, as regatta^ regurgitate^ refectorg, are constantly occurring, and frequently misapplied from a lack of knowledge of their meaning and derivation ; while of our English Law Terms, it may truly be said, that scarcely one person in a score among those in whose mouths they are constantly found, is aware *of the precise signification and value of the terms he has been employing. The more educated class of readers may, perhaps, be inclined to take PREFACK. exception at the almost homely words in wliich many matters are here explained ; but the Editor has considered that, in a Work like the present, clearness was of primary, and elegance of diction of very secondary importance. This is not intended exclusively as a book for the finished and polished scholar, but rather for the painstaking but unclassical learner, who has been his own instructor, and wishes, there- fore, to meet with a book which he can understand without foreign aid. One peculiar advantage of this Work will be found in the very complete and correct system of pronunciation which is given of each word, as well as its derivation. The importance of this feature will be apparent to students, heads of families, and all engaged in educational labour. One tiling can safely be promised. Xo reader who carefully goes through the definitions in this Volume, can fail to acquire accurate ideas concerning a great throng of words, of whose meaning he ought not, as an intelligent Englishman, to be ignorant. The best authorities have been consulted, to insure the accuracy of the definitions and explanations. THE DICTIONARY OF DIFFICULTIES. A ABA A, in commerce, stands for “ accepted ; ” for to ; ” and @ for at.” A, in logic, denotes a universal affirma- tive proposition. A asserts, and E denies ; thus, in barbara, A, thrice repeated, de- notes so many of the propositions to be universal. A, in music, is the nominal of the sixth note in the natural diatonic scale, and the natural key in the minor mood. It is the open note of the second string of the violin, by which the other strings are attuned and regulated. A 1, A term or mark used to denote the highest classification of ships at Lloyd’s; it is sometimes used in the more intensitive foi'm of ‘‘ first-class, letter A, No. 1.” Conventionally, this expression is employed to signify anything of the very best kind or quality. Aam, awm. A Dutch liquid measure, equal to 41 gallons at Amsterdam, 36^ at Antwerp, 38^ at Hamburg, and 39 at Frankfort. ^ A.B. An abbreviation of artiuvi bacca- lawrexis, bachelor of arts. Ab. A Latin preposition, allied to many English words, and changed in com- position into a, abs, an. It denotes motion in any direction from a fixed point, as ab-rupt, broken off ; abstain, to refrain from ; a-verl, to turn from ; au-gnr, to pre- dict from. See Ad. Ab. When the names of places begin with this syllable, it generally implies a connection with an abbey, as AZ^ingdon. Aback, a-bak (Saxon, on boec, back- wards). A word chiefly used in a nautical Ubnse, to express the positions of the sails of a vessel when their surfaces are pressed aft by the force of the wind. All aback im- plies that all the sails are aback. The sails are laid aback when they are inten- tionally adjusted in the above manner, either to stop the ship, to slacken her speed, or to make her move astern. They are taken aback when suddenly thrown backward by a change of the wind, or through the negligence of the helmsman. Abacus, ab-akus (Latin, abacus, Greek, abax, a slab). An instrument for facili- tating arithmetical calculations. It con- sists of an oblong frame, with a number of wires stretched across, upon which balls are arranged to express units, tens, hun- dreds, thousands, &c. In China, this instrument, called shawnpan, is in very general use. Abaft, a-baft (Saxon, bcejtan, behind). A sea tei’m, sig-nifying the hinder part of a ship, or all those parts, both within and without, which lie towards the stern, or aft division. Abalienate, ab-ale-yen-ait (Latin, ab, from ; alienus, another person’s). To make over to another. In civil law the term is used to signify the transference of property from one person to another. Abatement, a-batement (Saxon, lea- tan). A lessening or decreasing ; a reduction of price or quantity. In heraldry, abate- ment is an accidental, figure, supposed to ^ have been added to coats of arms to denote some dishonour or stain. Abatis, ab-atis (French, abatis). A species of entrenchment, affording an excellent and ready addition to the defence of a post ; being simply trees felled, and laid with their branches ao interwoven as B 2 ABA ABT. to present a thick row of pointed stakes towards the enemy. This kind of fortifica- tion is generally used at a short distance from the parapets of field works ; so that while the enemy is endeavouring to remove them, he is exposed to a destructive fire from the defenders. The abatis conse- quently proves one of the most effectual obstacles in retarding the enemy’s advance. Abattoir, abat-war (French, ahhatre, to knock down). The name given to the public slaughter-houses in France, estab- lished by a decree of Napoleon I. Abba, ab-bah. Literally, the Syriac name for father. Figuratively, it is used to express a superior in age, dignity, or affection. Abbe, ab-bai (French, able). Ori- ginally an abbot, and a title formerly considered as a badge of honour, and a mark of piety and learning. The title is now assumed by ecclesiastics without charge, devoted to teaching, literature, &c. Abbreviation, ab-brevy-ashun (Latin, ah, from ; brevis, short). Anything made shorter ; usually applied to words in speak- ing and writing, as don’t, for do not ; Dr., for Doctor ; P.S., postscript. Abdicate, abde-kate (Latin, ab, from ; dico, give up). To give up ; to abandon ; to renounce. A sovereign or any function- ary abdicates when he gives up the duties of his office before the expiration of his term. It differs from resignation as being unconditional, and without any formal surrender. Example : — James II., of England, abdicated ; Charles V., of Spain, resigned in favour. Abdomen, abd-omen (Latin, abdo, to conceal). The large cavity commonly known as the belly, containing the organs more immediately concerned in the process of digestion, as the stomach, liver, spleen, bowels, &,c. It is so called because it hides, or conceals, the lower portion of the bowels. Abductor, ab-duk-tur (Latin, ah, from ; duco, to draw away). Any muscle that contracts, or draws back : such as those which separate the fingers from each other, or the muscle which draws up the mouth. Abecedarian, abbo-sedarian (from A. B. C.). One wlio teaches, or avIio is learning the alphabet. ’I’lio term abecedary is sometimes apjilicd to tlioso compositions tlio parts of which are disposed in ali)ha- botical order. Aber. A Celtic prefix to the naiuos of many places, which imports that they are situated at the mouth of a river, as /ifcer- deem Aberration, aber-ray-shun (Latin, ah, from ; erro, to wander). The act of wandering froTu the common track ; an alienation of mind. In astronomy, aberra- tion of liyht means the difference between the apparent and the true place of a star. In optics, a deviation of the rays of light, when inflected by a lens, or speculum, by which they ai’e preventc I meeting at the same point. Abeyance, a-bay-yens (French, layer, to hanker after). A state of suspension, expectation, or waiting for. This term is used in law, in reference to an inheritance which is not vested in any one, and whicli is left unapproiiriatcd xmtil the lawful in- heritor shall establish his claim. Abigail, abbe-gal (Hebrew). A beau- tiful woman whom David, the psalmist, took to wife after the death of her hus- band, Nabal. This name is also applied generally to waiting women, although upon what grounds is not precisely ascertained. Ab-Initio, abin-isheo (Latin, ab, from ; initio, the first). From the beginning. Abjuration, abjoo-rayshun (Latin, ah, from ; juro, to swear). The act of abjuring; a renouncing upon oath. An abjuration of the realm is a renunciation upon oath which a person makes to leave the kingdom for ever. The Oath of o.bjuration is an oath asserting the title of the present royal family to the crown of England, and ex- pressly disclaiming any right to it by the descendants of James the Second. Ablactation, ablak-tayshun (Latin, ab, from ; lac, milk). A weaning of a child from the breast. Also, a term used to ex- press the mode of grafting a scion of one tree to that of another, and when the union has taken place, dividing the shoot from the parent stem. Ablaqueation, ab-lak-we-ayshun (Latin, ab, from ; la(p.iear, a covering). The process of opening the ground about the roots of trees and plants, in order to expose them to the action of light, air, and water. Ablative Case, ablah-tiv (Latin, ab, away ; latus, carried). The rixth case in the Latin declension of nouns, and expressive of the worils from, in, for, by, with ; words which in the English langnngc are prepositions, but in the Latin uuderstnod as part of the noun, when in its ablative case. Instead of saying “ with the king,” ABL ABS 3 f.s in English composition, the ablative case of the Latin word rex, rege, implies these prepositions, the translation being, “with, for, in, by the king,” the translator accepting whichever of the four words best suits the context and sense of the passage. Thus the term ablative signifies the taking away or removing. Able-Bodied, a-bul bod-ed. Having a sound, strong body, or a body of com- petent strength for service. An ahle-hodied seaman is one who is able not only to work, but also one who is well skilled in seaman- ship ; in maritime language, such a man is commonly termed an A. B. Ablegation, ablee-gayshun (Latin, ab, from ; lego, to send). A sending abroad. Ablution, ab-lew-shun (Latin, ab, from ; Ino, to wash). Ordinai'ily, the act of washing away or cleansing ; also, a reli- gious ceremony practised by the people of all Eastern nations as a part of their creed. Abnegate, abnee-gate (Latin, ab, from; nego, to deny). To deny. Abnodate, abno-date (Latin, ab, from ; nodus, a knot). To cut off the knots of trees. Abnormal, ab-normal (Latin, ab, from ; worma, a model). Irregular; against rule. Abolitionist, abbo-lishun-ist. One who is in favour of abolition, especially as applied to slavery. Aborigines, abo-ridjin-ease (Latin). The earliest inhabitants of a country. This term was originally applied to the ancient inhabitants of Italy. Abortion, ab-orshun (Latin, ab, from ; ortus, a source). IMiscarriage ; untimely birth. _ About (Saxon, abutan, around). In circumference, about is equivalent to around ; in number or quantity, it signifies near. To bring about, to bring to the point or state desired. To come about, to change or turn. 2'o go about, to enter upon ; to propose. In maritime affairs, to go about is used when a ship changes her course. About ship I are orders for tacking. Above, a-buv. Higher in place, as, above the Don ; higher in station, as, a marquis is above an earl ; beyond, as, above one’s comprehension ; longer in point ol time, as, above three months ; exceeding in weight, as, above six j)ounds; too proud or dignified, as, above asking a favour. Abracadabra, abrehkeh-dabreh. A term of incantation used in superstitious ages as an antidote against fevers. This word was written on a piece of yxaper or vellum, with the letters disposed in a tri- angular form, and suspended about tho neck of the patient. Abi’anchia, abran-keah (Greek, a, not ; brunclda, gills). Animals destitute of gills, and having no apparent organs of respira- tion. Abrasion, ab-rayzhun (Latin, ah, from ; rado, to scrape). A weai'ing away ; a rub- bing off. In numismatics, this term is used to signify the wear and tear which coins undergo in the course of currency. Abreast, a-brest. Side by side. In naval tactics, the situation as regards the line of battle at sea. Abreast line, the lino abreast is formed by the ships being equally distant, and parallel to each other, so that the length of each forms a right angle with the extent of the squadron or line abreast. Abreast of a place, is directly opposite to it. Abreast, within the ship, implies on a pa- rallel line with the beam. Abreuvoir, a-breu-vwar (French, abreuvoir). A watering-place for horses. In masonry, the joint between two sbones ; or the cavity to be filled up with mortar, or cement, when either are to be used. Abrogation, abro-gayshun (Latin, ab, from ; rogo, to make a law). The act of an- nulling or setting aside. This term implies especially the act of abolishing a law by the authority of its maker. Abscind, ab-sind (Latin, ab, from ; scindo, to tear). To cut off ; to pare off. Absent without leave. In the army, a milder term often used for deser- tion. All officers who absent themselves without permission, or fail to join their regi- ments at the expiration of their leave, aro placed under arrest, and their pay sus- pended until an explanation of the cause of their absence be given. Absentee, absen-tee. A term of com- paratively modern origin, fi^jm'fying a per- son who lives away fromlii? ostate. The name is especially applied to a numerous class of land-owners in Ii-eland. Absolution, abso-lewshun (Latin, ab, from ; solvo, to free). The forgiveness of sins, which the Church of Rome claims to itself the power of granting ; in civil law, a sentence whereby tho party accused is declared innocent of the crime laid to hiM charge. B 3 4 A13S ACC Absolutism, abso-lew-tism. A doc- trine charged on the Calvinists, which con- ceives that the salvation of mankind is dependent on the mere pleasure of the Almiglity. Abstergent, ah-stur-junt (Latin, ahr<, from; to wipe). Having a cleansing quality ; medicines which have the power of cleansing the body from obstructions and impurities, are so called. Abstract, abs-trakt (Latin, ahx, from ; traho, to draw). A summary, or epitome, containing the substance ; a general view or the principal heads of a subject. In metaphysics, an abstract idea is a partial conception of a complex subject. Abstraction, ab-strakshun. The act of drawing fi'om ; absence of mind ; inat- tention. Abstruse, ab-stroos (Latin, ahs, from ; truso, to thrust violently). Hidden ; ob- scure ; thrust away from the understand- ing. Abutment, a-butment (French, about, the end). The extremity of any body joining another, as the piers on which an arch rests. Also the junction or meeting of two pieces of timber. Abyss, a-biss (Greek, a, without ; bussos, bottom). Any deep place that is bottom- less, or supposed to be so. Ac, ak, ake. These syllables occur- ring at the beginning or the termination of a name of a town or place, convey the Saxon signification of oak; as Acton, or oak-town. Academy, a-kaddymee (Greek, Aka- demos, an Athenian, whose garden was con- verted into a gymnasium ; academe). A place of instruction next below a college ; an association for the promotion of scienoe or art. Acanthus, a-kanthuss (Latin, acan- thus). A prickly shrub ; an ornament in architecture resembling its leaves. Acceleration, ak-selly-rayshun (Latin, ad, towards ; ccLcr, swift). The act of hastening. In physics, the increase of the motion of moving bodies ; as the accelera- tion of a falling stone as it nears the earth. Accent, ak-sent (Latin, ad, to ; cano, to sing). 'I’ho modulation of tho voice in pro- nouncing certain words or syllables ; also, marks or characters used in writing, to direct tho stress of tho voice in pronuncia- tion, as the acute ( ’ ), tho grave ( '), and tho circumflex {* or ”“). Tho first indicates IJmt the voice is to be raised ; the second, that it is to be depressed ; and the third, that tho vowel is to l)o uttered with an un- dulating sound between high and low. In music, accent denotes tho modulation of the voice to express certain passions. Acceptance, ak-sci)tnnso (Latin, ad, for ; captum, to take). Reception with ap- probation. In commerce, an acceptance is when a person renders himself re.sponsiblo for the sum mentioned in a bill of exchange, 1)3’- writing tho word accepted” on it, and signing his name. An acceptor is tho person who thus signs a bill of exchange. Accessory, ak-scssory (Latin, ad, to; cedo, to agree). Contributing ; joined to. In law, a person who aids in tho commis- sion of a felonious act. An accessory before the fact is one who suborns another to com- mit an offence, and who, though not ac- tually concerned in the commission, is accounted equally as guilty as tho actual offender. An accessory after the fact is ono who assists, comforts, and harbours the offender, knowing him to be such. Accidence, aksy-dens (Latin, acciden- tia, chance). A book containing the first ru- diments of grammar, and interpreting tho attributes of the several parts of speech. Accidental Colour. A name given to the colour which an object appears to have, when seen by an eye which at tho time is strongly affected by some par- ticular colour ; thus, if we look for a short time upon any bright object, such as a wafer on a sheet of paper, a similar wafer will be seen, but of a different colour, and this will be what is called the accidental colour ; if the wafer be blue, the imaginary spot will be orange ; if red, it will be changed into green ; and yellow will become purple. Accipitres, aksippy-trees (Latin, ac- cipiter, a plunderer). The first order of birds, according to the classification of Linnaeus, including tho falcon, vulture, &c. ; tho chief characteristics being a hooked bill, strong legs, and sharp claws. This order includes the birds of prey ; hence the desig- nation. Acclimatise, aklyma-tize. To accus- tom to a foreign climate ; to inure to tho temperature of a now climate ; a terra applied alike to plants, animals, and human beings. Acclivity, ak-klivitty (Latin, ad, ap- proaching towards ; clivus, a slope). Tho ascent of a hill ; steepness reckoned up- wards. See Declivity. Accolade, akko-laid (Latin, ad, apper- ACC taining to ; the neck). A ceremony used in conferring knighthood, either by embracing, falling on the neck, or by striking a blow on ike shoulder. The cere- mony of knighthood, as practised in Eng- land, consists in the I'ecipient of the honour kneeling at the feet of the person who confers the honour, when the latter sti'ikes the shoulder of the former a blow with a sword, at the same time exclaiming, “ Arise, Sir — Accompaniment, ak-kumpany-ment (Latin, ad, with ; con, together ; panis, head). An addition by way of ornament. In music, an instrumental part added to the . composition by way of embellishment, and for the purpose of assisting the principal melody. Accord, ak-kord (Latin, ad, with ; cor, the heart). To harmonise, to agree with. In music, it is used to imply an instrument in perfect tune. In law, it signifies the £ompensation or satisfaction which an in- jured party agrees to receive, and who thereby disqualifies himself from taking any legal proceedings in the matter which has been thus settled. Accoucheur, ak-koo-shur (French). A man who assists women in child-birth. This term is now generally used instead of the old designation of man-midwife. Accountant, ak-kowntant (Latin, ad, with; con, togetW* ; puto, to think). In general terms, a person skilled in accounts, or engaged in keeping them. In commerce, one whose especial business it is to inves- tigate and cast up books of accounts, more particularly in cases of bankruptcy and in.solvcncy. Accoutre, ak-kootur (French, accowb-e?', to dress out). To equip ; to arm ; to fit. Accredit, ak-kreddit (Latin, ad, upon ; credo, to place trust). To procure credit i i favour of ; also, to iDelieve ; to place trus^ in. An accredited agent is a person fui • nished with letters ana other documents, to confirm the mission upon which he is sent. Accrescimento, ak-kres-se-mento (Italian, accrescere, to increase). In music, the increase by one-half of its original duration wliich a note gains b)^ liaving a dot appended to the rigM of it. Accrue, ak-kroo (French, d, from ; c?A, growth). To spring up ; to follow as a natural result. Accubation, akku-bayshun (Latin, ad, to ; cubo, to lie down). A posture of the body between sitting and lying ; reclining sideways, as on a couch. Accumulate, ak-kcwmiew-lato (Latin, acZ, upon ; a heap). To increase; to heap together. Accusative Case, ak-kewsativ (Latin, accuso, to accuse). The fourth case in t!'o declension of Latin nouns, correspending with the objective case in English gram- mar; namely, denoting or accusing the object towards which any action is direc- ted. Aceldama, assel-daymah (Hebrew, aceldama, a field of blood). Used to ex- press a frightful scene of slaughter or bloodshed. Acephalan, as-seffahlan (Greek, a, without ; kephale, the head). A class of animals having no head, of which tho oyster is an example. Acerbity, a-serbitty (Latin, acerlus, bitter). Sourness of taste ; sharpness of temper. Acetate, assee-tait (Latin, acidus, sour). A salt resulting from a combination of acetic acid with an alkaline, earthy, me- tallic, or vegeto-alkaline base — four varie- ties which may be exemplified by the acetates of soda, lime, lead, and morphia. Acheron, akky-ron (Greek, Acheron). The fabled river of the infernal regions. . Acliievement, atch-eevment (French, d chef). Performance ; some great exploit, feat, or meritorious deed. In heraldryq the escutcheon or shield, upon which the crest, arms, or quarterings are emblazoned. Achromatic, akkro-mattik (Greek, «, without ; chroma, colour). Devoid of colour. In optics, a term applied to telescopes con- structed so as to destroy the coloured fringes which surround the image of an object viewed through a lens, or prism. Acidimeter, assid-immetur (Latin, acidus, sour). An instrument employed for ascertaining the strength of acids, in commerce or manufactures. ■ Acme, ak-mee CGreek, acme, the highest point). A word used to imply the summit of excellence, or the perfection of art. In medicine, the term denotes tho height of a disease, or the crisis of a fever. Acolyte, akko-lyte (Greek, akolouthos, an attendant). A servitor in tho Romish Church. This word is frequently used in a conventional sense, to imply a humble assistant in any occupation. Acotyledon, akotty-leedon (Greek G AGO ACT fl, without ; colylcdon, sccd-Ioho). A class of ))lants, tho seeds of wliioh liavo no lobes or divisions. Acoustics, a-kowstiks (Greek, ahmn, to hear). A science treating of tho pro- perties of sound, and tho theory of hear- ing; also medicines or instruments which assist imperfect hearing. Acquiesce, akwe-ess (Latin, ad, with ; quies, rest). To comply with, to yield ; used especially to express consent given after much solicitation, and with a view of obliging tho solicitor rather than one’s self. Acquire, ak-kwire (T^atin, ad, for ; queer Q, to ask). To gain ; to obtain by labour or research. Acquisitiveness, ak-wizitiv-ness. In phrenology, an organ of development which displays a desire for and power of gaining or obtaining. Acrasy, ay-crasy (Greek, a, without ; hrasis, temperament). Excess, irregu- larity. In medicine, the pi'edominance of one quality above another. Acrid, ak-rid (Latin, acer, sharp). Bitmg and hot to the taste, pungent, sharp. Acrobat, akro-bat (Greek, acros, high ; haino, to go). In ancient times, rope- dancers, and those who performed various feats from lofty positions, were designated Acrohaies. The street-tumblers of the present day assume the name of acrobats, as tho representatives of these ancient performers. Acrogens, akro-jens (Greek, acros, tho point or apex ; zennao, to produce). A term applied to those plants which, like tho tree-ferns, increase by additions to the growing point, and never augment in thickness after once formed. The acrogens are all floworless. Acronical, akronny-kal (Greek, acros, high ; ne, not, or opposed to). A term, in astronomy, applied to tho rising of a star at sunset, or its .setting at sunrise. Acrospire, akro-spire (Greek, acros, the point ; speira, to sprout from). A shoot or sprout from tho ends of seeds. Another term for what in botany is called the gerrn, or plume. Acrostic, a-krosstik (Gi’ook, acros, ex- treme or eccentric; stickos, averse). In jiootry, a kind of ingenious comi)osition, disposed in such a manner that the initial or oxtrorno letters of tho versos form tho namo of some person, ji.ace, motto, he., as tile wt-rd Fricudship, in the following exam]'lo : - F rifii(l.shi|i, tlion’rt false! I Imtc tliy (lattcriiig sinUc! R ctnrii to inc those years I si)eiit in vain. I n early youth the victim of thy guile, E ach joy took wing ne’er to return again — N e’er to return; for, chilled hy hojics dccciTed, ]) ully the slow-iiaccfl hours now move a^'iig; S 0 changed the time when, thoughtks.s, I be- lieved II er honeyed words, and heard her syren song. I f e'er, as me, she lure some youth to stray, P erluqis, before too late, he’ll listen to my lay. Acroteria, akro-tccryiah (Greek, acros, tho extreme point ; terco, to keep). A term implying generally the extremities of the bod}'', as the hands, feet, ears, nose, &c. In architecture, small . pedestals, usually placed at the extremities of pedi- ments ; and upon which globes, vases, or statues are supported. Act of Honour. In commerce, a proceeding usually conducted by a notary, which consists in drawing up an instru- ment for the security of a third person who interferes for a correspondent abroad, in preventing his bill from being returned or dishonoured for want of regular accept- ance, or payment by the party on whom it is drawn : it is often done for indorsers on such disgraced bills of exchange, and not only prevents the heavy expenses of i*e- exchange, biit likewdsc preserves the credit of the parties concerned. Actinism, aktin-izzum (Greek, actin, a ray). A property in the rays of light which prodiices chemical changes, as in daguerreotyping. Actinometer, aktinno-meetur. An instrument employed for the purpose of ascertaining the intensity of heat in tho direct rays of the sun. Active Principles. In chemistry, the sp)irits, oils, and salts : so called be- cause their parts, being bri.skly in motion, infuse action into other bodies. Acts of Parliament. In England, statutes or laws passed by the two Houses of Parliament, and assented to by the Sovereign. They are distinguished as Public General Act.s, which are judiciously taken notice of as such by all judges and justices ; Local and Personal Acts, which may bo especially pleaded in courts of law, or olsewhcro, and bo judicially re- cognised ; Private Acts which are printed, and Private Acts which are not printed. * Actuary, nktow-airy (Latin, actum, ACU A1)I 7 the doing of a tiling). The chief clerk or person who compiles minutes of the pro- ceedings of a company, or business. In insurance offices, the person who conducts the calculations of insurances, and the general statistics of a similar character. Acumen, akew-men (Latin, aetto, to sharpen). Mental sharpness, or keen dis- ceimment ; great intellectual capacity. A.D., Anno Domini. The year of our Lord. Ad. A Latin preposition, prefixed to several English words, expressing motion towards an object, or the relation of one thing to another ; as addict, to give up to ; address, to speak or apply to ; advance, to go towards. It is also sometimes changed to AC, as accost, to speak to ; ac- crue, to be added to. See Ab. Adagio, aday-djeo (Italian, adagio, to move slowly). In music, a mark or sign of slow movement ; a degree quicker than grave time. Adage, ad-edj (Latin, adaginm, a pro- verb). Aremai-k which has obtained credit by long use, and frequent repetition ; a maxim ; a proverb. Adamant, addah-mant (Greek, a, not ; damao, to conquer), A very hard stone ; a name given to different minerals of excessive hardness, as the diamond. Adaptation, adapt-ayshun. The act of fitting or suiting; state of fitness. Plays from the French, or any foreign language, rendered fit for representation on the English stage are termed adapta- tions. Adatis, a-daytis. A kind of muslin manufactured in India, in pieces measuring fifteen yards long, and three-quarters of a yard wide. Ad captandum, ad-kap-tandum (Latin, ad, towards ; captatio, catching or aiming). To attract or please ; to capti- vate the vulgar. Any phrase in a written composition, or a speech, which appeals to the passions or the prejudices of the auditory, is called an ad captandum senti- ment. See Clap-trap. Addendum, ad-dondum (Latin ad, to ; do, to give). Something to be added ; an appendix. The plural of this word, used to express more things than one added, is A ddenda. Addict, ad-dikt (Latin, ad, to ; dico, to devote). To devote ; to dedicate to ; to give up to habitually. Addle-headed, addul-headod (Saxon, aidiian, to bo empty). Empty-headed ; barren of brains. Adduce, ad-duse (Latin, ad, to ; duco, to lead). To advance by way of proof ; to allege ; to quote ; to cite. Adelantado, addy-lantahdo (Spanish). The Spanish governor of a province. Adeiing, addel-ing (Saxon, adel or ethel, noble ; ling, young). A title of honour which the Saxons bestowed iq^on the children of princes, and upon young nobles. Adelite, addel-ite. A name formerly given, in Spain, to conjurers who predicted ^ the fortunes of persons by the tiight and singing of birds, and other accidental cir- cumstances. Adelplii, a-delfy (Greek, adelphos, a brother). The block of buildings situatetl , in the Strand, London, bears this name, on ^ account of having been built by tho brothers Adam. Adenology, adden-ollodjy (Greolc, aden, a gland ; logos, a discourse). Tho doctrine of the glands, their nature and uses. Adept, ad-ept (Latin, ad, to ; aptum, fitted). One well skilled in any art; thoroughly versed ; skilful. Adhere, ad-heeur (Latin, ad, to; hoereo, to stick). To cling to ; to hold on by ; to attach. Adhesion, ad-heezhun. The act or state of adhering ; the espousing a party or cause. Adhibit, ad-hibbit (Latin, ad, reference to ; haheo, to have). To apply to ; to make use of. Ad Hominem, ad-hommy-nem (Latin, ad, to ; hominem, the man). Personally ; . specially ; individually. An appeal made ^ to one’s predilections or principles, is styled an argumentum ad hominem. Adieu, a-due (French, d Dieii, to God). An elliptical expression, equivalent to “ I commend you to God.” See Good-bye. Ad Infinitum, ad-infe-nytum (Latin, ad, to ; finis, the end). To endless extent ; continuing without ces.sation. Ad Interim, ad-interim (Latin, ad, in ; interim, the meantime). During the interval ; while a case is pending. Adipocere, addy-po-sere (Latin, adeps, fat ; cera, wax). A soft, oily, or waxy sub- stance, of a light-brown colour, into which 8 AI)I ADM the muscular fibres of dead animal bodies are converted, when protected from atmospheric air by long immersion in water or spirit, or by burial in moist places. Adipose, addy-poze (Latin, adeps, fat). Adipose cells are the bags which contain the fat. Adipose membrane, the tissue which incloses the fat in animal bodies. A dipose tnmour, the accumulation of fat in large quantities. Adit, ad-it (Latin, ad, to ; eo, to go). The horizontal entrance to a mine, some- times called the drift. It is usually made in the side of a hill. The term air-shaft is frequently employed to express the same meaning. Adjacent, ad-jaysent (Latin, ad, to ; iaceo, to be near). Lying near, close, or contiguous ; bordering upon. Adjective, adjek-tiv (Latin, ad, to; iacio, to tlirow). In grammar, a word used with a noun to express a quality of the thing named, or something attributed to it, or to limit or define it, or to specify or describe a thing, as distinct from some- thing else. Adjectives are of four kinds : — 1. Nominal; those which distinguish certain species by some quality, which arises either from the nature of the thing, or from its form, situation, &c., such as good, black, round, external. 2. The verbal or participial, which always end in ed or ing ; as loved, domineering, and denote some accidental quality, which appears to be the effect of an action that passes, or has passed, in the thing under considera- tion. 3. Numeral adjectives, which place any substantive in numerical order, as frst, second, last. 4. Pro-nominal, which do not mark either species, action, or arrange- ment, but are merely indications of indi- viduality. ITiese adjectives are either personal, as my, tliv; or they have a vague and indeterminate meaning, such as some, one, many; or, lastly, they serve the purpose of mere indication, as this, \liat, ,.'isKing sontonce. In Scottish law, a process by which land or other heritable estate is attached in satisfaction of debt; or an action by which the hoMcr of a heritable right, labouring u)idcr a defect in 2 ioint of form, may supjily that defect. Adjunct, ad-junkt (Latin, ad, to; junctus, joined). Something added to another, but not essentially a part of it ; as water absorbed by cloth or sjiongo, is its adjunct. Also a body joined to another. In grammar, words added to illustrate or amplify the force of other words ; as the History of the American Revolution. The words in italics are the adjuncts of History. Adjure, ad-joor (Latin, ad, to ; juro, to swear). To swear solemnly ; to impose an oath on another ; to charge or summon with solemnity. Adjust, ad-just (Latin, ad, to ; justus, exact). To make exact ; to fit or frame ; to cause the several parts to correspond ; to make accurate ; to settle, or bring to a satisfactory state, so that parties are agreed in the result ; as to adjust accounts, to adjust differences. Adjutant, adjoo-tant (Latin, ad,, to ; juvo, to help). In military affairs, an officer whose business is to assist the major, by receiving and communicating orders. Each battalion of foot, and each regiment of horse, has an adjutant, who receives orders from the brigade-major to commu- nicate to the colonel, and to the subordi- nate officers. Adj%<,tant-General, i.s ono who assists the general of an army. Administration, ad-minnis-trayshun (Latin, ad, to ; ministro, to assist). The act of administering or conducting any em- ployment, as the conducting of the public affairs, or dispensing the laws. The execu- tive part of Government, which, in Eng- land, is termed the Administration, is usually composed, as follows : — First liord of tno Treasury ; Lora High Chancellor ; Chancellor of the Exchequer ; Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs ; Secretary of State for the Colonial Department; Secre- tary of State for the Homo Department ; President of the Council ; Lord Pidvy Seal ; First Lord of the Admiralty ; Pre- sident of the Board of Control ; Chancel- lor of the Duchy of Lancaster ; First Commissioner of Inland Revenue ; Secre- tary at War ; Commandor-in-Chiof. Such, in general, compose the Administration ; but there aro many other ministers, as Lord Chamberlain, President of the ADM ADU 9 Board of Trade, Postmaster-General, &c. ; some of whom are occasionally included in the Ministry ; while, on the other hand, any one or more of those specified above may be excluded. Administrator, ad-minnis-traytur. In English law, one who has the effects of a person dying without a will committed to his charge. In Scottish law, a person legally empowered to act for another, whom the law presumes incapable of acting for himself. The term is usually applied to a father, who has the power over his children and their estate during their minority. The feminine of this word is administratrix. Admiral, ad-meral (Latin of the middle ages, amira, an emir, or com- mander). In the British navy, an officer of the highest rank in the fleet, dis- tinguished by a square flag, which is carried above the main-mast. The Vice- A dmiral is the second in rank. He carries his flag above the fore-mast. The Rear- Admiral comes next, and carries his flag above the mizen-mast. These admirals are classed into three squadi’ons, named after the colours of their respective flags, the red, the white, and the blue. Admiralty, adme*ralty. In Great Britain, the office of Lord High Admiral. This office is discharged by one person, or by commissioners, called Lords of the Admiralty, usually seven in number. Admiration, Note of. In gram- mar, the character (!) used after a word, or at the close of a sentence of a remarkable or emphatic nature. Admonition, admo-nisshun (Latin, ad, against ; moneo, to warn). A warning or notification of a fault ; a mild reproof. In ecclesiastical affairs, a reproof given to a member of the church for a fault either publicly or privately ; the first step of church discipline. It has a like use in colleges. Adnascent, ad -naysent (Latin, ad, io ; nascens, growing). Growing to or upon something else. Adnaie, in botany, refers to the growing together of the diflferent ' parts of plants. Ad Nauseum, ad-naws-eum (Latin). The repetition of anything until it be- comes nauseous. Adolescence, addo-lessens (Latin, ad, to ; oleo, to grow). The state of growing applied to tlie young of the human race ; youth, or the period of life between child- hood and the full development of the frame, extending in males from about fourteen to twenty -five, and in females from twelve to twenty-one. Adonis. In mythology, a youthful hunter beloved by Venus. This term is applied colloquially to a favourite of women. Adopt, a-dopt (Latin, ad, for, opto, to desire). To choo.se to one’s self. To take a stranger into one’s family as son and heir. To take or receive as one’s own that which is not naturally so, as to adopt the opinions of another ; or to receive that which is new, as to adopt a particular mode of husbandry. Adosculation, a-doskew-layshun (Latin, ad, to ; osculatio, a kissing). The impregnation of plants by means of the pollen falling on the stigma. Ad Pondus Omnium (Latin). Lite- rally, “ to the weight of the whole.” These words after the name of any ingredient, in ^ ' a medical prescription, signify that tho weight of such ingredients is equal to that of all the others put together. Ad Referendum, ad refer-endum (Latin). For further consideration. Adriatic, adre-atik (Latin, Adria, tho Gulf of Venice). Pertaining to tho Gulf of Venice. Adrift, a -drift (Saxon, adrifan, to drive). A nautical term, denoting the condition of a vessel broken from her moorings. Adroit, a-droyt (French, droit, right, straight). Dexterous, skilful in the use of the hand ; readiness of the mental powers ; quickness of invention. Adscititious, adsy-tishus (Latin, ad, for; scisco, to seek out). A term applied ^ to that whieh is taken in to complete some- thing else, as adscititious advantages. Adstriction, ad-strikshun (Latin, oc?, to ; siringo, to bind fast). The act of bind- ing together ; contracting into a lesser compass. ■ Adulation, addu-layshun (Latin, adu- latio, originally, tho wagging of a dog's tail to his master). Servile flattery ; praise in excess, or beyond what is merited ; high compliment. Adult, a-dult (Latin, adultus, grown to maturity). A person grown to full size A,«d strength, or to the years of manhood. It is also applied to full-grown plants. ]0 ADU AER ArluTtorate, a-rlultor-ato (Latin, ad, io ; aUnr, second self). To cornupt, debase, or make iinj)nro by an admixture of baser m;iTori;ds. Adumbrate, ad-umbratc (Latin, ad, to; umbra., shadow). To slnulow out; to iL^'ive a faint likeness ; to exhibit a faint re- semblance, like that whicli sliadovvs afford to the bodies which they rei''rescnt. A dum- hralion, in heraldry, is the shadow only of any figure outlined, and painted of a darker colour than the field. Aduneity, a-dunsy-to (Latin, ad, to ; uiicHs, a hook). Ifookedness; a bending in the form of a hook. Adust, a-dust (Latin, adiisius). Burnt 1125 ; scorched ; become dry by heat. Ad Valorem, ad va-lorom (Latin). ^ According to the value. The Custom.s’ 4-' duties upon certain goods at so much per cent, on the value is called an oxl valorem duty. Advance, ad- vans (French, avancer ; this word is formed on d, to, and van, the front). To bring forward ; to 2 )romotc ; to imiirove, or make better ; to forward or accelerate the growth of. In commerce, an advance is a giving beforehand ; a fur- nishing of something, on contract, before an c<]uivalent is received, as money or goods, towards a capital or stock, or on loan. In military affairs, an advance guard is a detachment of troops which precedes the march of the main body. Advent, ad-vent (Latin, ad, to ; venio, to come). A coming ; appropriately the coming of our Saviour, and in the calendar it includes four Sabbaths before Christmas. Adventitious, adven-tishus (Latin, adventitious). Foreign, strange; that which is added, not essentially inherent. Adverb, ad-vurb (Latin, ad, to ; verbum, a word). In grammar, a word used to mo- dify the sense of a verb, 2 '>i^'i’ticiple, adjec- tive, or attribute, and usually placed near it ; as, h.e writes ; paper white. Adversaria, ad-ver-sayreah (Latin, a.-lvirsns, opposite). Among the ancients a l.ook of accounts, answering to the mo- d 'r’n lodger, and .so named from the debit a id credit being i-'Iaced in opposition to (jach other. The word also imports, among literary persons, a sjiecios of common-jihjco l)ook, in which the notes are not dige.sted under I’cgular heads. All vert, ad-vurt (Latin, ad, to ; verto, to turn), 'i'o turn the mind or attention to ; t(/ regard, observe, or notice. Advocate, advo-kato (T/atin, ad, to ; voco, to call). 'J'his word, in its jnim.arv sense, signifies one who jilcarls the c.auso of another in a court of civil law ; hence it came to bo a})]dicd to a ideadcr in any judicial court : in Fngland they are of two degrees, Ilarristcrs n,m\ Serjeants, in Scot- land the FacuUjj of Advocates is a society of eminent lawyers, who practice in the highest courts. In France the Avocats form a se 2 )arato order, of which each mem- ber is attached to a particular local court ; there are also those who plead, and those who 25ractice only. • Advowson, ad-vowsun (Latin, ad, to ; voveo, to' vow). In English law, a right of presentation to a vacant benefice ; or, in other w’ords, a right of nominating a person to officiate in a vacant church. Advow.sons are of three present ative, colhitive, and donative— presentative, when the patron 2 )resents his clerk to the bisho25 of tlie diocese to be instituted; collative, when the bishop is his 2 >atron, and insti- tutes, or collates his clerk, by a single act ; donative, when a church is founded by the king, and assigned to the patron, without being subject to the ordinary, so that the patron confers the benefice on his clerk^ without presentation, institution, or induc- tion. Advowsons are also ap'pendant, that is, annexed to a manor ; or, in gross, that is, .annexed to the person of the patron. Adynamy, adin-amee (Greek, a, with- out ; dpinamis, power). Diminution of the vital powers ; debility ; prostration of the action of the senses, and of the muscular system. 7F! . A diphthong in the Latin language. In Anglicised words it is generally super- seded by e, as Eolian for AHolian, Edile for CEdile, &c. Aerated, ay-erayted (Greek and Latin, aer, air). Combined with carbonic acid, formerly called fixed air. Aerated waters is a term applied to a variety of acidulous and alkaline beverages, more or less im- pregnated with carbonic acid. Aerial, ay-eryal. Belonging to the air or atmos25here ; as, aerial regions. Con- sisting of air ; partaking of the nature of air. Aerial plants, those which absorb much of their food from the atmosphere. Aerial perspective, that branch of perspec- tive which treats of the relative diminution of the colours of bodies, in pro25ortion to their distance from the eye. Aerolite, ayro-lito (Greek, aer, air: lithos, a stone). A stone which falls from AEll AG A 11 tho air under certain circumstances, which has given rise to a variety of theories and conjectures, without any positive conclusion being arrived at. Aerometer, ayr-om-etur (Greek, aer, air ; rnetron, measure). An instrument for weighing air, or for ascertaining the mean bulk of gases ; also, an instrument for ascertaining tlie density or rarity of air. Aeronaut, ayro-nawt (Greek, aer, air ; nautes, a sailor). One who sails through the air ; commonly applied to persons who ascend in and guide balloons. Affable, alTah-bul (Latin, ad, to; fari, to speak). Easy to be spoken to, or a readiness to speak to any one ; courteous ; complaisant. AfFeto, Affetuoso, or Con AfFetto (Italian, from Latin, affecto, to strive after). In music, a direction to perform certain notes in a soft and affecting manner, and therefore rather inclined to slow tlian the reverse. Affiance, af-fyans (Latin, ad, io ',fides, faith). To betroth ; to pleilge one’s faith or fidelity in marriage, or to promise marriage. Afficlie, af-feesh (French, affiche). A placard, or notice, publicly exhibited. Affidavit, affe-dayvit (Latin ; an old law verb signifying ^‘he made oath from ad, in ; fides, faith). A declaration on oath, before a competent authority, more par- ticularly when reduced to writing and signed by the party. Affiliation, affilly-ayshun (French, affi- lier, to adopt. Latin, ad, to; jilius, a son). To adopt ; to receive into a family as a son. In law, the proving of parentage in the case of illegitimate children. Affinity, affiny-te (Latin, ad, to ; finis, tho end). Relationship by marriage. It is distinguished into three kinds : direct affinity, as subsisting between the husband and his wife’s relations by blood ; secondary affnity, as subsisting between the hus- band’s and wife’s relations by marriage ; collateral affnity, as subsi.sting between the husband and the relations of the wife’s relations. In general terms, agreement ; relation ; conformity ; resemblance. Affirmation, affur-mayshun (Latin, ad, to ; firmo, to make firm). The act of strengthening or supporting any opinion. In law, the solemn declaration made by Quakers, Moravians, and any others who, from conscientious scruples, refuse, or are unwilling to take an oath in cases where an oath is required from others. False affirmations made by such parties ai’c j)unishablo in the same way as 2)erjury. Affix, af-fiks (liatin, ad, to; fiixnm, united). To unite at the end. A p'articlo added at the close of a word, cither to diversify its form, or to alter its signifi- cation. The following list includes the principal affixes to English words : — Age, rank, office. Alice, anevf ^ , Ence! Ant, ent ) Ate, ary, having. Ble, (hat may be. Bleness, the quality of being able. Bly, in a manner. Cy, ty, y, ity, state, con dition. En, in. Er, or, an, ian, ex, ess, eer, ist, ite, san, zen, the person who. Fy, to make. les, science, art. Ion, ity, ment, the state or act of. Isli, some degree. Isin, doctrine, theory. Ive, ic, ical, ile, ine, ing, it, ial, ent, ant, ’per- taining to, having the quality, relating to. Ize, to make. Less, without. Ly, like, resembling. Ness, quality of. Oid, resembling. Ous, ose i nature of. Ory, some ) like, full of. Bic, dom, possession. Ship, office. Ude, state of heir g. lire, act of, state of being. Ward, in a direction. Afflatus, af-flaytus (Latin, ad, to ; fiatus, blowing, or breathing). A blast or breath of wind. Inspiration ; communica- tion of Divine knowledge, or the power of prophecy ; usually alluded to as the “ Di- yin e afflatus.” Aft, ahft (Saxon, ceft, after, behind). In nautical language, a word used to denote the stern, or what pertains to the stern part of a ship. Fore and aft, sig-nifies the whole length of a ship. Feight aft is in a direct line with the stern. After- Clap. An unexpected subse- quent event ; something happening after an affair is supposed to be at an end. After-Math. The second mowing of grass in the same season ; also, the stubble cut after the reai^ing of corn. After-Piece. A theatrical piece per- formed after a play ; a farce or other light entertainment. Affusion, af-fewzhun (Latin, ad, on; fnndo, to pour out). In medicine, a mode of treatment for fever and other diseases, which consists of pouring water upon the patient or on the part affected. Agapemone, agap-emony (Greek, agape, love). A modern association of men and women living in common ; osten- sibly, in love and piety ; and on a general fund made up of the fortunes or donations of tho associated members. Tho persons 12 AGE AIT forming- this sect live retired from the world, in a house furnished with every convenience and comfort ; with gardens attached, tastefully laid out, and grounds adjacent for the recreation of the mem- bers. Their religion is a free interpreta- tion of Christianity, and they have a leader who professes to bo divinely commissioned. . The establishment of this name in England is situated at Bridgewater, in Devonshire. Agenda, a-jendah (Latin, ago, to act). Literally, things to bo done ; a memoran- dum-book of things to bo daily attended to ; the service of the office of the Church. In theology it is used to distinguish what one is bound to perform, in opposition to Cmlenda, or things which he is bound to believe. Agio, adj-eo (Italian, aggio, an ex- change of money for some consideration). In commerce, the difference in point of value between metallic and paper money, or between one sort of metallic money and another rate of exchange. Thus, if a mer- chant sells goods with the stipulation that they shall be paid for, either 100 livres bank money, or 105 cash or current money, the agio in such a case is said to be 5 per cent. Agistment, ajist-ment (Norman, ogiser, to lay or throw down). In law, the taking of other people’s cattle to graze, especially in the royal forests, and also the profits thence arising. This term also denotes a tax, burden, or charges, levied for repair- ing the sea-banks in different parts of England. The agistnieni-tithe is a tithe paid to the vicar for pasturage of barren cattle. Agglomerate, ag-glommy-rate (Latin, ad, to ; glomero, to wind round, from glomus, a ball of yarn). To wind, or col- lect into a ball ; to gather into a mass. Agglutinate, ag-glew-tenait (Latin, ad, to ; gluten, glue). To unite one part to another, to cause to adhere ; used gene- rally in a medical sense. Aggrandize, ag-grandyze (Latin, ad, to ; grandis, great). To increase ; to make great by enlargement ; to exalt ; to im- j)rovo in pov/er, honour, or rank. Aggregate, ag-greegait (Latin, ad, to ; grex, a Hock). To collect in troops or flocks; to bring together; to collect par- ticulars into a sum, mass, or body, as the aggregate amount of charges. Aggression, ag-groshun (Latin, ad, to ; gradior, to go). 'J’ho advancing against anoiher ; the first attack or act of hosti- I lity ; the commencement of a quarrel, or a war, by some act of injury. Agonistic, ago-nistik (Greek, agon, the contest for the prize). Relating to prize- fighting. The word agong is derived from the contortions or twistings of the body in an athletic contest or struggle. Agnomen, agno-men (Latin, ad, to; nomen, a name). A name given to a per- son on account of, and in connection with, some extraordinary action or circumstance ; 4 thus, the agnomen “of Kars” was given to Sir Fenwick Williams, on account of his gallant defence of a place of that name, during the Russian war. Agnus Dei, agnus de-i (Latin, agivus, lamb ; Dei, of God). The figure of the . Saviour under the form of a lamb, in ac- cordance with the symbolical words of St. John. In Catholic countries medallions of wax or dough are stamped with the fig^ure of the Lamb supporting the cross, and these are supposed to preserve those who carry them, in faith ; to guard them from accidents, &c. Agrarian, agra-rean (Latin, oger, a field). Relating to fields or grounds. Agrarian laws are those which relate to the distribution of land, and especially ap- plies to a mode of allotment, by which the number of acres assigned to each person is limited, so that all should have a portion of land, and none become monopolists. Aid-de-Camp, ay-day kong (French, aid, or aide, assistant ; de, of ; camp or champ, field). A military officer appointed to the staff of a general officer, wnose orders he receives and distributes. These orders are to be obeyed with the same readiness as if delivered personally by the general officer to whom the aid-de-camp is attached. Aisle, ile (French, alle, a wing. Latin, ala, a wing). The wing of a building, usually applied to the lateral divisions of a church, which are sepai*ated from the central part, called the nave, and choir, by pillars and piers. The nave is frequently, though in. correctly, termed the middle aisle, and tho lateral divisions the side aisles. Ait, ate (supposed to be a corruption of islet), A small island in a river, generally overgrown witli sedges and wild, rank vege- tation ; tho resort of acpiatic birds, and particularly ducks ar.d swans. There are several places answering to this descrip- tion in tho river Thames, between Twicken- ham and Richmond. AJU ALE 13 Ajutage, a-jootaaj (French, ajouter, to add, to supply). Tho tube fitted to the mouth of a vessel, through which the water of a fountain is to be played. It is by means of this tube that the water is di- rected into any desired figure, so that the diversity of fountains con.sists chiefly in the different structure of their ajutages. Alabaster, ala-bastur (Greek, Alabas- iron, a town of Lower Egypt, where tho substance was found of excellent quality). A soft kind of marble, which is of a granu- lar texture, of a white colour, and possess- ing a certain degree of transparency. Alamode, alah-mod (French, d, to ; la, the ; mode, fashion). According to the fashion, or the most stylish manner. Alarmist, a-larmist (French, alarme! to arms !). One who excites alarm ; one who is ready to take alarm at, and to circulate and exaggerate, any sort of bad news, par- ticularly in regard of political affairs. Albata, al-baytah (Latin, alhus, white). The name given to a species of white metal largely used in many branches of manu- facture. Albino, al-beeno (Latin, alhus, white). A person of unusually fair complexion, with light hair and pink eyes. Albinos are occasionally found as a variety of the human race in every climate. Albion, al-beon (Latin, alhus, white). The name given by the Komans to tho island of Great Britain, on account of the chalky or lohite cliffs, which first met their eyes. Album, al-bum (Latin, alhus, white). A book originally blank, in which are in- serted from time to time any auto^aphs, poems, drawings, &c., as memorials of friend® and distinguished individuals. Albumen, al-bewmen (Latin, alhus, white), A substance so named from the Latin, for the white of an egg, in which it exists abundantly, and in its purest natural state. It enters largely into the compo- sition of tho animal fluids and solids. In botany, it represents that solid, fleshy, bony, or homy consistence secreted in certain seeds, between the embryo and the skin. Alburnum, al-buraum (Latin, alhtis, white). The outer, latest formed, and white portion of the wood of plants, some- times called sap-wood. Alcaics, al-kayiks. Several kinds of verse, so called from Alcaeus, a lyric poet of Mitylene, their inventor. Alcaid, al-kaid (Arabic, Jeada, to go- vern), Among the Moors, Spaniards, and Portuguese, a governor. In Portugal, the chief civic magistrate in a town or city ; also, the jurisdiction of certain judges of appeal. In Spain, the governor of a castle or fort ; also a jailer. The Cadi of the Turks is similarly derived. Alchemy, al-ke-me (Arabic, al, the ; kimia, secret art). A chemical art, by which the adepts of former times sought to transmute baser metals into gold, and to prepare a fluid, called Elixir vitoe, by which disease and death were to be avoided by tho possessor. Alcohol. A word of Arabic derivation, used to denote the essence of bodies, sepa- rated from the grosser parts. It now signifies ardent spirit of wine, and forms the intoxicating principle of wine, beer, and other spirituous liquors. Alcoran, al-koran (Arabic, al, the ; koran, book). The book which contains the Mohammedan doctrines of faith and practice ; which the Mohammedans state was given to Mahomet by the angel Gabriel, a verse at a time, and at different places, during a period of twenty-three years. Alcove, al-kove (Spanish, alcoha, com- posed of al, with tho Arabic kabha, to con- stmet with an arch). A recess in a room, separated from it by a screen of columns, or by a balustrade, or by draperies, for the reception of a bed, and having its floor generally raised above the floor of tho room. Also a lateral recess in a library for the reception of books. Likewise an arched and covered seat in a garden. Ale Conner (ale and con, to know or see). An officer whose business it is to in- spect the measures used in public-houses, to prevent frauds in selling liquors. Alee, a-lee. In nautical language, on the side opposite to the wind, that is, op- posite to the side on which it strikes. The helm of a ship is alee, when pressed close to the lee side. Hard alee, or luff alee, is an order to put the helm to the lee side. Alembic, a-lembik (Arabic, al, the; amhixon, chemical vessel). A chemical vessel used in distillation ; usually made of glass or copper. ITiis vessel is not so generally used now as the worm-still and retort. Alexandrine Verse. A kind of verse consisting of twelve syllables, or of tweh e and thirteen alternately ; so called from a u ALE ALL poem written in Frcncli, on tlie life of Alex- ander. Tho Alexandrine, in Fnglisli, con- sists of twelve syllables, as will be seen by tho following specimen : — “A needless Alexandrine ends my sonp, Which like a wounded snake drags its slow length along.” Ale-wife, or Aloof. This word is pro- perly aloof, tho Indian name of a fish, but the established pronunciation is ale-wife. It is an American fish, and somewhat re- sembles the herring. A1 Fresco, al-fresco (Italian). In the open air, usually applied to entertainment.s, refreshments, &c. Algae, al-je (probably from tho Latin altigo, to bind). An order of 2>lants which comprehends the whole of tho sea-weeds. Algebra, aljo-brah (Arabic, nl, the; gahoron reduction of the whole t . i part). A branch of mathematics, in which syiubols are employed in the jilace of figures. A species of calculation which takes the quan- tity sought, whether it be a number, or a lino, or any other quantity, as if it were granted, and by means of one or more quantities given, proceeds by consequence, till the quantity at first only supposed to be known, or at least some power thereof, is found to be equal to some quantity or quantities which are known, and conse- quently its own value, or quantity, or num- ber, is determined. Alhambra, al-hambrah. An ancient ’palace and castle in Grenada, formerly the residence of the Mohammedan monarchs. This building is, to outward appearance, wholly divested of ornament, but the in- terior decorations afford specimens of the decorative art which, for gorgeousness of colour and beauty of design, ai’e unequal- led. Alias, aily-as (Latin, alias, otherwise). A word used to link the several names which a 2.>orson assumes for the purjioses of concealment ; as, Johnson, alias Rich- ards. In law, a duplicate execution or writ, issued when the original has proved in- efficient in enforcing the judgment. Alibi, alle-by (Latin, alibi, elsewhere). A 2)lca sot uj) by a person charged with a crime, to show that ho was at some place remote from that at which tho offence wjxs committed at tlio time of commission, and therefore establishing tlie irnimssibility of his being the real olfendor. Alien, ale-yen (Latin, alius, another). A foreigner ; one born in, or belonging to, another country. In France, children born of residents wlio arc not citizens are aliens. In Great Britain, the children of aliens born in that country are for the most imrt nabiral born subjects ; as also are tho children of British subjects owing allegi- ance to tho crown of England, though Ikuti in other countries ; and both are entitled to the i)riviloges of resident citizens. An alien is inca2)ablo of inheriting lands in England till naturalised by Act of rarliarncnt ; and in Scotland, he is disejualified from either acquiring or inheriting pro2)erty. Alimony, allc-munny (Latin, alo, to feed). An allowance which a husband has to make to his wife when se2)arated from her. Tho sum is usually fixed by the judge, and is regulated according to tho income or earnings of tho husband. Alkalies, alkah-lccs (Ai-abic, al, tho; kali, the name of a plant which produces the substance by burning). A class of bodies, possessing a very bitter and hot taste, and which exercise a corrosive action upon all animal matter. They have also the power of changing vegetable colours, turning blue to green, and turmei'ic to brown. Allah. The Arabic name for God, com- posed of the particle al and elah, — tho Adorable. Allegiance, al-lejans (Latin, ad, to ; ligo, to bind). The duty or fidelity which a subject owes to his sovereign or govern- ment. Allegory, alle-gory (Greek, alios, another ; agora, discourse). A description of one thing under the image of another, so < that some othbr meaning is intended than that which is conveyed by the mere words used in the description. An allegory is represented in the following “ Stop the currents, the meadows have drunk suffici- ently;” that is, let your music cease, our ears have been sufficiently delighted. Allegro, al-laygro (Italian, leggiere, to be merry). In music, a word denoting a brisk movement ; a sprightly part or strain. There are two other degrees of the same : allegrissimo, very lively ; allegretto, or poco allegro, a little lively. Tho word piU, more, is sometimes i)refaxcd to strengthen tho meaning. Alleluiall, al-lc-loo-yah (lTcbrew,a/c.'()()- ecag, i)raise to .lah, or lah). Praise Jeho- vah ; a word used to denote pious joy and exultation, chieliy in hymns and anthems. AliT ALL Alligation, alle-gayshun (Latin, ad, to ; ligo, to tie together). A rule in arith- metic to find the value of compounds, con- sisting of ingredients of different values. Alliteration, al litty-rayshun (Latin, ad, to ; litera, a letter). The repetition of the same letter at the beginning of two or more words immediately succeeding each other, or at short intervals, as in the two following lines, applied to Cardinal Wolsey “Begot by butchers, but by bishops bred, How high his honour holds his haughty head!” Allocation, allo-kayshun (Latin, ad, to ; loco, I place). The act of putting one thing to another ; the admission of an article in reckoning, and addition of it to the account. In law, an allowance made on an account in the Exchequer. Allodium, allo-deum (Celtic, odl, all ; odh, property). Freehold estate ; land which is the absolute property of the owner ; real estate held in absolute inde- pendence, without being subject to any rent, service, or acknowledgment to a superior. It is thus opposed to feudal. Allonge, al-lunj (French, allonger, to throat), A pass with a sword ; a thrust made by stepping forward and extending the arm ; a term used in fencing, often contracted into lunge. Allons, al-long (French, allons, let us go). A word used to express ‘‘let us pro- ceed,” “ let us on with our story,” &c. Allopathy, allop-athy (Greek, alios, other; pathos, disorder). The method of medical practice in which it is attempted to cure disease by the production of a con- dition of the system either different from, opposite to, or incompatible with, the con- dition asserted in the disease to be cured. Alloy, al-loy (Latin, ad, to ; ligo, to bind). A baser metal mixed with a finer ; the mixture of different metals ; also, evil mixed with good, misery with pleasure, &c. Allusion, al-lewzbun (Latin, ad, upon; IvAo, to play). A reference to something not explicitly mentioned ; in composition, a figure by which some word or phrase in a sentence calls to mind, as if accidentally, another similar or analogous subject, as “ these words were the only ‘ open sesame’ to their feelings and sympathies.” Here the words “ ope7i sesa^ne" recall to mind tlie charm, by whicli the rol)bcrs’ dungeon in the Arabian tale of The Forty Thicies was opened. 15 Alluvium, al-lew-vcum (Latin, ad, to- wards ; hio, to wash). The insensible in- crease of earth on a shore, or bank of a I’ivcr, by the force of water, as by a cur- rent, or by waves. Alma Mater, al-mah may-tur (Latin, alma, fostering; mala, mother). Mild, benign, or fostering mother. This term is used by skrdents to designate the univer- sity in j^hich they were educated. It is also applied to nature and to the earth, Avhich affords us everything we enjoy. Alms, ahmz (Saxon, aimes). Anything given gratuitously to relievo the poor, as money, food, or clothing. Aloft, a-loft. Any part of a vessel up in the rigging, or above the masts or yards ; particularly above the lower masts. A I’Outraiice, ah-loo-trawns (French, d I'outrance, extreme, excess). This phrase is used to express a determination to maintain or defend to the utmost, despite all obstacles, objections, or opi- nions. Alpha, al-fah (Hebrew, alooph, an ox, or leader). The first letter in the Greek al- phabet, answering to A, and used to denote first, or beginning, as “I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last.” Alphabet, alfah-bet (Greek, alpha, a ; beta, b). The letters of a language ar- ranged in the customary order, and so called from the two leading Greek letters. Alpine, al-pine (Latin, Alpinus, from Alps). Pertaining to the Alps, or to any lofty mountain ; as Alpine plants, Alpine scenery. Aliquant, alle-kwant (Latin, aliquaoi- turn, a little). In arithmetic, a number or fraction which, however repeated, is not equal to another number without a re- mainder. Thus : 7 is an aliquant part of 22, for 3 times 7 are 21, leaving a re- mainder 1. Aliquot, alle-kwot (Latin, aliquotus, sometimes). A number capable of dividing another number wdthoiit leaving a re- mainder ; thus, 2, 4, 5, and 10, are aliquot parts of 20. Alterative, altur-ativ (Latin, altero, to change). A medicine which produces a change in the system. A remedy whicli rc-establislies tlic health by almost imper- ceptible degrees. Alter Figo, altur-ocgo (l.atin, alter, another ; ego, self). A diq)licaie ; tiio ' counterpart or second impersouatiou of IG ALT AMB one’s self. Tims in the drama of The Cor- sica)i Brothers, the same actor usually per- forms both characters, that is to say, his own and the alter e(jo. Alternate, al-turnat (Latin, alternatus, changed by turns). Being by turns, one following the other in succession of time or place. Alternative, al-turn-ativ. That which may be chosen or omitted ; a choice of two things, so that if one is taken or adopted, the other mu.st be left or relinquished. Thus, if a person be asked to speak the truth, or to keep silence, he is expected to obey one of the two injunctions, which may be called alternatives. Alto, al-toe (Italian, from Latin, altus, high). In music, a term applied to that part of the great vocal scale which lies between the soprano and the tenor, and which is assigned to the highest natural adult male voice. Alto Relievo, alto-releavo (Italian, alto, high ; relievo, relief). In sculpture, the projection of a figure to the extent of one-half or more, without being entirely detached. Alumnus, a-lumnus (Latin, alo, to nourish). A pupil ; one educated at a seminary or university is called an alum- nus of that institution. A. M. An abbreviation of ante meri- dian, before noon. A. M. stand for artium marjister, mas- ter of arts, the second degree given by universities and colleges. A. M. stand also for anoio mundi, in the year of the world. Amalgam, a-malgam (Greek, ama, together ; and gamio, to wed). A com- pound of quicksilver with another metal ; a mixture of .different things. Amanuensis, a-man-u-en-sez (Latin, a, from ; manus, hand). A person em- ployed to write what another dictates. Literally, one who is useful from his manual labour. Amaranth, amah-ranth (Greek, a, not ; 'maraino, to fade). The name of a ))lant, poetically supposed to bo endued with unfading prox)ortios, and to possess immortality. Amateur, ahtnah-tur (French ; from Latin, amo, to love). A ])orson attached to a p.ariicular j/ursuit, study, or science, for the mere pleuhuro it ivIVonls him, and with- out any view to gain or remuneration, aa an amateur actor. Amazon, amah-zun (Greek, a, without ; mazos, breasts ; without breasts, figura- tively). A warlike or masculine woman ; a virago. The Amazons are reputed by historical writers to have been a warlike race of women, who denied themselves the society of man, and by their warlike enter- prises to have conquered and alarmed surrounding nations. Ambassador, am-bassay-dur (French, amhassadeur. Spanish, embaxador). A person sent in a public manner from one sovereign power to another as its repre- sentative. Ambidextrous, am be-deks truss (Latin, ambo, both ; dexter, right-hand). Displaying equal facility in the use of both hands ; double dealing ; practising on both sides. *- Ambiguous, ambig-evras (Latin, ambi, from side to side ; ago, to-act). Doubtful ; having more than one meaning ; equivocal ; uncertain. Ambrosia, am-brozhea (Greek, a, not ; hrotos, mortal). The imaginary food of the gods ; hence whatever is very pleasing to the taste or smell is so called. Ambulance, ambew-lans (Latin, am- bulo, to move from place to place). A light caravan, furnished with surgeons’ assis- tants and orderlies, for attending the wounded on the field of battle. Ambush, am-boosh (French, en, in; bois, a wood or bushes). The place of con- cealment where soldiers or assassins are placed in order to rush out upon the enemy unexpectedly. Lying in ambush, is hiding in any concealed situation with a like purpose. Ameliorate, amealy-orate (Latin, ad, to ; melior, better). To make better ; to improve. Amen. This word, with slight dif- ferences of orthography, is in all the dialects of the Assyrian stock. As a verb, it signifies to confirm, establish, verify; to trust or give confidence. As a noun, truth, firmness, trust, confidence. As an adjective, firm, stable. In English, after the Oriental manner, it is used at the beginning, but more generally at the end of declarations and prayers, in the sense of, be it firm, be it established. Amenable, a-menay-bul (French, d, to ; n\ener, to conduct : also, from Man- dat d'amencr, an order to bring a porsoa AME ANA 17 into court). Liable to bo brought to ac- count ; respousiblo ; subject to. Amende Honorable, amahnd- houo-rahbl (French, amende ho?ioralde). Formerly, in France, an infamous punish- ment inflicted upon a traitor, parricide, or sacrilegious person ; now, a public acknow- ledgment of injury done to another. Con- ventionally, the term amende honorable signifies apology. Amerce, a-murs (old French, a, to ex- act; mercio, goods). To punish with a pecuniary penalty ; to exact a fine ; to inflict a forfeiture. Americanism, a-merrikan-izum. A word, idiom, or some other thing peculiar to the American people. Ammonia, am-mo-neah. A volatile alkali, originally obtained in Iiybia, by burning the droppings of camels, while their drivers were sojourning near the temple of ,1 upiter Ammon. Amontillado Sherry, amontil-lahdo (Spanish, signifying like or similar to Montilla). This wine possesses a pecu- liarly delicate flavour, and is highly prized. Montilla is situated in Upper Andalusia, and takes its name from its momitainous character. Amoroso, am-orozo (Italian). A man enamoured of the fair sex. Amour-Propre, amoor-propr (French, amour, love ; propve, belonging to oneself ). Self-love ; thus an appeal is made to a person’s vanity, or amour-propre. Amphibious, am-fibbyus (Creek, amphi, on both sides ; bios, life). An ani- mal so constituted that it can live either in or out of vjater. Amphitheatre, amfy-theatur (Greek, amphi, ou both sides; theatron, theatre). In antiquity, a building of a circular or oval form, encompassed with rows of seats rising gradually one above the other, and capable of accommodating an immense number of persons. This name is some- times given to a circus in modern times ; and in gardening, to an elevated terrace having steps descending to a series of ter- races formed on the side of a rising ground. Natural scenery answenng to this description is also termed amphi- theatrical. Am plification, amply-fe-kayshun (Xatin, am./>/us, large). The expansion of a subject, either in si)eaking or writing, by enumerating circumstances which are intended t(j excite mure strongly, in th^ hearer or reader, feelings of approbation or of blamo. Amputate, ampu-tate (Latin, am, about ; puio, to cut). To cut off, as a limb. Amulet, amew-let (Latin, amolior, to repel). Something worn about the person, as a gem, stone, coin, paper, or other sul"*- stance, from a belief that it is capable ol charming away diseases. The wearing oi amulets was much practised in former times. Ana, an-a (Greek, a?ia, again). In medical prescriptions, a word used to im- ply the like quantity of each, as wine and honey, ana, 5ii. — that is, wine and honey, each two ounces. Ana is occasionally used as a termination, to denote collections of memorable sayings of celebrated 'udivi- duals, or anecdotes of them, or extracts from their works, as the well-known book entitled “ Johnso7iiana,” relating to Dr. Johnson. Anabaptist, annah-baptist (Greek, ana, again ; baptizo, to dip). The word is ap- plied to a person who has been re-baptised ; it is also given to a Christian sect, because they objected to infant baptism, holding that none should be baptised until they are capable of understanding and profess- ing the Christian faith, and that the cere- mony should be performed by immersion or dipping of the whole body in water. It should be obsu«wed that the sect itself repudiates the prefix ana, as a})plied to them, and simply term themselves Baptists. Anachronism, an-akron-izum (Greek, ana, again ; chronos, time). An error in computing time, by which events are mis- placed in regard to each other, as, for in- stance, speaking of the Gunpowder Plot in the reign of James IL Anacreontic, anak-re-ontic. Per- tp’iiing to Anacreon, a Greek poe who V rote chiefly in praise of love and e. A poem written in this style and s; rit is thus called. Anagram, anab-gram (Greei ana, back; pramma, a letter). A t- ^posi- tion of letters, >o as to form oth vords of a diifercnt moaning. Thus tli dters which conqjosc t'le word stone i i-y bo arranged so as to form the wor tmies, ixnc-', .■■e.loi,. Tiiis ingenious trai. sitioa has l)oen frequently applied to t. imca o^ celebrated persons, as, IloRA'; Mbl- -oN, //u/wr u Vico — My hono* frona ft r* ’ ANA ANN T *} Analysis, a-nallysis (Greek, ana, through ; (no, to wash away). The sepa- ration of a coin])oun(l body into those parts of which it consists, A mode of imjxirting instruction wliich commences with those oi)jccts that are most known ; examines tlieir properties and relations ; compares them togetlier ; traces back ef- fects to causes ; and so advances until general pnnciples and laws are arrived at. Analogy, an-allo-jy (Greek, ana, through ; Lofjos, reason), A term which, in ordinary acceptation, denotes a partial resemblance between different objects. By analogy is understood an agreement in one or more particulars in material objects which are otherwise unlike ; thus, the bark of a tree bears analogy to the skin of an animal, because it is related to the plant in the same manner as the skin is to the animal. Anapest, anah-pest (Greek, ana, again ; paio, to strike). In poetry, a jnetrical foot, containing two .short syllables and one long, as contravene. Anarchy, anar-ky (Greek, a, without; arche, sovereignty). Want of government ; disorder ; political confusion, Anastroplie, anah-strofy (Greek, ana, again ; strophe, turning). A figure in rhe- toric, whereby words that should have been placed before are placed after, as ‘^all London I searched about,” for searched about all London.” Anathema, an-athy-mah (Greek, ana, up ; iithemi, to place). This term was originally applied to something hung up in a temple as an offering ; and hence, it came to signify anything consecrated or devoted to the gods. Its enlarged mean- ing is an ecclesiastical curse, by which a person is separated from the Church, and in Roman Catholic countries, also from the privileges of society; a curse pronounced by a reclaimed heretic against the doc- trines ho formerly held and now abjures. Anatomy, a-natto-my (Greek, ana, up ; ienino, to cut). The art of dissecting the body, also ttie art of dividing intellectual sul^jects ; by way of irony, applied to a very thin, meagre person. Ancestor, an-sestur (Latin, ante, before ; cesso, to cease). One from whom a person is descended ; one who has gone or lived before us. Anchorage, ankor-adj. In maritime affairs, a bottom suitable from its depth and nature of the ground, for casting l anchor upon. Anchorage also implies a duty charged against ships for the use of the roadstead or harbour. Anchorite, ank-orito (Greek, ana, apart; ckoyeo, to dwell). A hermit ; a per- son who retires from the world and dwells in solitude. Andante, an-dahn-te (Italian, andante). In music, express, distinct, exact. An- dante Tjartjo, signifies that the notes must be distinct, the music slow, and the time acciu'ately marked. Andiron, and-irun (corrupted from liand-iron). Iron at the end of a grate in which the spit turns. Andrea Ferrara. A name frequently given to a sword from a famous maker of sword-blades of that name. Anent, a-nent (derivation uncertain). Concerning ; having reference to. This is a word of common iise in Scotland. Anemometer, anny-mommy-tur (Gicek, anemos, the wind; a mea- sure). An instrument for measuring the force and velocity of the wind. Anglican. Pertaining to England or I the English nation ; thus, the Anglican Church is derived from the adjective A the name originally given to England, by the Angles. Anglice. A word used incidentally to indicate the true English reading of some colloquial phrase or vulgar idiom ; as, ‘'ho was run off the line, while travelling by the ‘ lightning-run,’ — Anglice, express train.” Anglo-Norman. Pertaining to th& Normans who settled in England. Anglo-Saxon. Pertaining to the Angles, or tribe of Saxong that settled ic England. Animadversion, anny-mad-versnun (Latin, animus, purpose ; adverto, to turn to). Reproof, censure, blame, punishment. Ani m a 1 c u 1 Cj anny-mal-kewl (Latin, animal, a living being). A very small animal, visible only by the aid of tho' microscope. Plural, Animalcula. Animus, ani-mus (Latin). The feeling which prompts a person in acting or speak- ing to another’s 2>rejudico. Annealing, an-neol-ing(Saxon,a?ioEfa%, to heat). The art of tempering glass or metal, by a j)rocess of cooling slowly after tho ai^plication of extreme heat. ANN ANT 19 Annihilate, anni-helate (Latin, ad, to ; nihilum, nothing). To reduce to nothing ; to destroy utterly ; to put out of existence. Anniversary, anny-versary (Latin, annus, the year ; verto, to turn). A day as it returns in the course of a year ; the act of celebration ; a performance in honour of the anniversary day. Annunciation, annun - she - ayshun (Latin, ad, to ; nuncio, to tell). The name given to the day celebrated by certain churches, in memoiy of the angel’s saluta- tion of the Virgin Mary ; solemnised on the 25th of March. Anodyne, an-odine (Greek, a, without ; odyne, without pain). That which has the power of mitigating pain ; a medicine which assuages pain, either by direct application, or by producing sleep, or by stupefying. Anomaly, anom-alee (Greek, a, not; omalos, smooth or regular). Irreg-ularity ; contrary to common rule ; deviating from the ordinary method or analogy of things. Thus, if after sitting up all night, a person feel more wakeful than if he had had a good night’s rest, such a circumstance might be called an anomaly. In grammar, it denotes an irregularity in the accidents of a word, in which it deviates from the common rules, whereby words of a like kind arc governed. Anon, a-non (derivation uncertain ; supposed to be in one — instant, moment, minute). Quickly ; soon ; in a short time. Anon is also used as a contraction for anonymous. Anonymous, a-nonnymus (Greek, a, without ; onoma, a name). Wanting a name. Antagonist, an-tagonist (Greek, anti, against ; ayon, contest). One who con- tends with another ; an m>ponent ; imply- ing generally a personal and particular opposition, Antarctic, an-xarutik ^Greek, anti, opposite ; arktos, the Bear), llelating to the region within the Antarctic circle ; opposite the Northern pole ; relating to the SoutheiTi pole. Ante, an-te. A Latin preposition signi- fying before, used in the composition of many English words. Antecedent, an-te-se-dent (Latin, ante, before ; cedo, to go). Going before ; pre- ceding. Conventionally, this word is used to imply a person’s former position, charac- ter, and pursuits ; which are tlms si)oken of as liis antecedents. In grammar-, ante- cedent is the term given to the noun to which the relation is subjoined, as, the mail who is there ; man being the antece- dent, who the relative. Ante - Chamber, an-te - chame - bur (Latin, ante, before ; camera, a chamber). An outer chamber before the principal chamber, where the servants wait, and where strpgers wait till the person to be spoken with is at leisure. . - Antediluvian, ante- delewv-yan (Latin, ante, before ; diluvium, a deluge). Existing before the Flood ; applied ironi- cally to very old-fashioned persons, man- ners, or things. Antennae, an-tennee (Latin, antenna, a yard-arm). Feelers ; those delicate- jointed feelers or horns with which the heads of insects and crustaceans are inva- riably furnished. Antepenult, ante-penult (Latin, ante, before ; 'pemdtimus, last but one). The last syllable but two of a word, as the syl- lable te in antepenult. Anterior, an-teery-ur (Latin, anterior, going before). Before in time or place; prior ; previous. Opposed to posterior. Anther, an-thur (Greek, anthos, a flower). A small membranous organ, forming the top part of the stamen of a flower, which contains and discharges the pollen, or fertilising dust, by which the seed- ve.ssel is impregnated. Anthology, an-tholojy (Greek, anthos, a flower ; logos, a discourse). A treatise on flowers ; a collection of flowers, or of choice poems or tracts. Anthracite, an-thrasite (Greek, an- thrax, a burning coal). A species of slaty coal found in the transition-rock formation, and often ealled stone coal, glance coal, and blind coal. Anthropophagi, aiathro«pofajl (Greek, anlhrojyos, a mart ; phago, to eat). Man - eaters ; cannibals ; feeders upon human flesh. Anti-Christ, anty-kryst (Greek, antt, opposed to ; Christos, Christ). A great adversary of Christianity, who is to appear on earth towards the end of the world. Anti -climax, anty-klimaks (Greek, anti, opposed to ; klimax, gradation). A sentence in which the ideas become less important towards the close ; a catastrophe in a narration or dramatic representation, which is of minor interest to some im- I)ortaut event immediately preceding. 20 ANT APO Antidote, anto-doat (Greek, anti, op- posed to ; didomi, to give). A medicine which prevents or rem wes the effects of poisons. Used fig ratively to imply some quality that counteracts the effects of any injurious thing. Antinomianism, ante - nomean -izum (Greek, anti, opposed to ; nomoa, law). A doctrine held by a certain sect, that good works are not necessary to salvation, and that faith alone is suflivuent justification through the atonement of Christ, reaching to all offences of the believer before and after repentance unto life. Antiphlogistic, ante flojistik (Greek, anti, against ; phlego, to burn). A term upplied to any means or medicine by which inflammation is reduced, as bleeding, purging, and low diet. Antipodes, an-tippo-deez (Greek, anti, apposed to ; podes, feet). The inhabitants of our globe who live immediately oppo- site to each other, and who may therefore re said literally to stand feet to feet. Antiseptic, ante-septik (Greek, anti, against ; sepo, to purify). A term applied to substances which prevent putrefaction in animal or vegetable matter, as common Balt. Antistrophe, ante - strofee (Greek, anti, opposed to ; strophe, turning). In an ode supposed to be sung in parts, the se- cond stanza of every three, or sometimes every second stanza. Antithesis, antlth-esis (Greek, anti, opposed to ; thesis, a placing). A figure in which words, thoughts, or sentences are laced in opposition or contrast, as, ‘‘ Be- old, my servants shall eat, but ye shall be iungry ; behold, my servants shall drink, 8ut ye shall be thirsty ; behold, my servants diall rejoice, but ye shall be ashamed." Antitype, ante-tipe (Greek, anti, op- posed to ; typos, type or pattern). A figure corresponding with some other figure ; that which is pre-figured by the type ; thus, the paschal lamb was a type of which Christ was the antitype. Antonomasia, anto - noma - zhea (Greek, anti, opposed to ; onoma, a name). A term applied to that fi>rn) of expression in which a proper name is put for a common name, or a common name for a proper; or, when the title, office, dignity, jirofes- pion, science, or trade is used instead of tho ordinary name of a person. Thus, when wo ajjjily to (Jhrist the term “tho Baviour of tho world.” or to Garibaldi “the Liberator of Italy or when w« call a great orator “ a Demosthenes,” or when we say “ Her Majesty” instead of tho Queen, in each case the expression is called antonomasui. Apathy, apah-the (Greek, a, without ; pathos, feeling). Want of feeling; cold- ness ; exemption from passion. Apex, a-peks (Latin, apejc, the summit of a helmet). A n angular point or tip, as tho extreme end of a spear, or a church-spire. Aphelion, afc-leun (Greek, apo, from ; helios, the sun). That point at which the earth or any planet is at the greatest dis- tance from the sun. Aphorism, afo-rizum (Greek, apo, from ; horos, a boundary). A detached precept in few words. Aphthong, af-thong (Greek, a, with- out ; phthongos, a sound). A letter which is not sounded in the pronunciation of a word ; a mute. Apiary, aype-ary (Latin, apis, a bee). A place where bees are kept. Aplomb, ap-lom (French). Self-com- mand ; assurance. It is also used to ex- press the command which a dancer has over his steps and movements. Apocalypse, apokka-lips (Greek, apok- alypto, to reveal). Revelation ; the name of the la.st book of the New Testament, ascribed to St. John the Apostle. Apocrj’pha, apok-refah (Greek, apo, from ; krypto, to conceal). The Apocrypha or apocryphal books are those writings not admitted into the canon of Scripture, being either not acknowledged as divine or re- garded as spurious. The word apocryphal is generally applied to any thing tliat is doubtful or unauthentic. Apogee, appo-gee (Greek, apo, from ; gea or ge, the earth). That point of the orbit at which the sun, moon, or any planet is most distant from the earth. Apollo Bel idere, a-pollo belvy-deer. A celebrated marble statue of Apollo in the Belvidere gallery of the Vatican palace at Rome, esteemed as one of the noblest and most perfect delineations of the human figure. Apologue, appo-log (Greek, apo, from ; logos, a discourse). A species of allegorical fiction, from which a separate meaning or moral lesson may be drawn. It is a kind of fable in which animals, vegetable®, stocks, and stones, speak and act as moni- tors to mankind. APO APP 21 Apostaey, a-po&tah-sy (Greek, apo, from ; stasis, a standing). Departure from the principles which a person has once pro- fessed, generally applied in cases of reli- gious defection. A Posteriori, a-pos-te-re-oree (Latin, a, from ; posteriori, the latter). A mode of reasoning in which the cause is deduced from the effect. See A Priori. Apostrophe, ap-postiv-fe (Greek, apo, from ; stropfie, a turning). A figure of speech by which the orator turns from his subject to address a person, place, or thing, either absent or dead, as though he or it were present; as, ‘‘O thou Parnassus ! whom I now survey.” In grammar, a mark of contraction in a word, as lov’d for loved ; also the sign of the possessive case, as, John’s hat. * Apothegm, ap-othem (Greek, apo, from ; phthema, voice). A short, senten- tious, instructive remark uttered on a par- ticular occasion, or by a distinguished character; as that of Cato:— “Men by doing nothing, soon learn to do mischief.” The word is also spelled Apophthegm, and sometimes Apothem. Apotheosis, apoth-efisis (Greek, apo, from ; Theos, God). Deification : a cere- mony by which the ancient Romans used to compliment their emperor and great men after their death, by assigning them a place among the gods. Appal, ap-paul (Latin, ad, to ; palleo, to be pale). To ma’Ke pale with fear ; to terrify. Appanage, ap-panage (derivation doubtful ; supposed to be Latin, ad, for ; i mnis, bread). An allowance to younger )ranches of a sovereign family, out of the revenues of the country. In ordinary cases, it descends to the children of the prince who enjoys it. Apparition, appah-rishun (Latin, ad, to ; pareo, to appear). In a general sense an appearance or visible object ; hence applied to the imaginary appearance of a ghost or spectre. Apparatus, appah-raytus (Latin, ap- paratus). The instruments or utensils necessary for carrying on any science, trade, or pursuit. Apparitor, ap-parry-tur (Latin, ad, to ; pareo, to appear). In English law, a mes- senger who serves the process of a spirit' lal coiirt. One who is at hand to execute 1 he orders of the magistrate or judge of any court of judicature ; a beadle ; a sum- moner. Appellant, ap-pellant (Latin, ad, to ; pello, to call). In law, a person who makes or brings an appeal ; one who appeals from a lower to a higher court or judge. Appendage, ap-pendej (Latin, ad, to ; peiideo, to hang). Something added to another thing without being necessary to its existence, as the portico of a house; the seals attached to a watch. Appertain, apper-tain (Latin, ad, to ; per, by; teneo, to hold). To belong to, whether by nature, right, or appointment. Apportionment, ap - poreshun-ment (Latin, ad, to ; portio, a portion). A divid- ing into shares or portions. In law, a dividing of rent, &c., according to the number and proportion of the persons to whom it is to be distributed. Appoggiata, ap-podjy-aytah (Italian, appoggiata, a prop or support). In music, more particularly in song, a blended and not abrupt utterance of the tones, so that they imperceptibly glide into each other without any apparent break. Appoggiatura, ap-podjy-aytewrah (Italian, appoggiare, to lean on). In music, a small note used by way of embellish- ment before one of longer duration, and which it borrows half and sometimes a quarter only of the time of the preceding note. Apposite, appo-zit (Latin, ad, to ; posi- tum, placed^ Properly applied ; suitable ; well adapted to. Appreciation, appreeshy-ayshun (Latin, ad, to ; pretium, a price). A just valuation ; a due estimate. Apprehend, ap -prebend (Latin, ad, to ; prehendo, to take). In one sense, to seize, to lay hold ; as apprehending a delin- quent. In anotner sense, to understand or lay hob’ of one’s meaning ; also to enter- tain s”rfpicion of future evil ; to think with terror on impending danger. Appropinquation, appro-pin-kwa- shun (Latin, ad, to ; proximus, near). The act or power of approaching. Appropriation, ap-propree-ayshun (Latin, ad, to ; proprius, one’s owm). Tlie act of setting apart for a purpose ; the laying claim t-c anything fora person’s own use. Approver, ap-proovur (Latin, ad, to; proho, to prove). One who approves. In 22 AP? AEB law, a fcrson who, in confessing he has com- mitted a felony, accuses his accomplice or accomplices ; and he is so called because he XOMst prove what he alleges. Approximate, ap-proksy-mate (Latin, ad, to ; proximus, near). Near to ; to cause to approach ; as in botany, a leaf is said to be approximate when it is close to the stem. Appui, ap-pooee (French, a'ppui, sup- port). In horsemanship, the sense of the action of the bridle in the hands of the rider. In military science, any particular given point or body upon which troops are formed, or by which they are marched in line or column. See Point d’ Appui. A Priori, a-pre-oreo (Latin, a, fi-om; priori, the former). A term used in logic, as appljdng to any argument in which a fact that follows is drawn from a fact that has gone before. See A Posteriori. Apropos, ap-ro-po (French, d, to ; propos, the purpose). Opportunely; sea- sonably ; in reference to ; with regard to. Apsis, ap-sis (Greek, apsis, arch). The name of those two points in a planet’s orbit at the greatest and least distance from a central body. Plural, apsides, or apses. Aptera, ap-terah (Greek, a, without ; pier on, wing). An order of insects having no wings, as the bug, flea, &c. Aqua, ak-kwah. The Latin word for water : a term much used in medical pre- scriptions and directions. Aqua fortis, ak-kwah for-tis (Latin, aqua, water; fortis, strong). An impure nitric acid commonly used in the arts. It is made of a mixture of purified nitre, or saltpetre, and potter’s earth, in equal parts, and is divided into double and single, the latter of which is only half the strength of the former. Aquarium, ak-kwary-um (Latin, aqua, water). A receptacle for aquatic plants and animals ; a pond in a garden for rear- ing aquatic plants. Aqua Regia, ak-kwah re-joah (Latin, a/7ua, water ; regia, royal). The name given by the alchemists to that mixture of nitric and muriatic acids which was best fitted to dissolve gold, styled by them the king of the metals. It is now called nitro- muriatic acid, or nitro-hydrochloric acid. Aqua Tinta, ak-kwah tin-tah (Latin, aqua, water ; tinta, tint). _ A mode of etching which imitates drawings in India- ink, bistro, and sepia, very successfully. Aqua Tofania, ak-kwah tof-fabneah (Latin, aqua, water ; Tofania, of Tofana). A poisonous liquid prepared by a woman of the name of Tofana or Tofania. It is generally supposed to have been a preno. ration of arsenic ; its appearance was that of purest water, and from four to six drops were sufficient to cause death. ’Pofana distributed this poison to women who were desirous of getting rid of their husbands ; and when put to the rack, previous to her execution, she confessed tliat she had de- stroyed upwards of six hundred persons with this poisonous preparation. Aqua Vitae, ak-kwah vi-te (Latin, aqua, water ; vitve, of life). A name fa- miliarly applied to distilled spirits, espe- cially brandy. See Eau de Vie. Aqueduct, ak-kwe-dukt (Latin, aqiia, water ; ductus, a conduit). A structure made for conve3dng water from one place to another, either under ground or above it. A structure continuing the line of a canal across a river, road, or valley, is also called an aqueduct, and sometimes an aque- duct bridge. Aquiline, akkwe-lin, or akkwe-line (Latin, aquila, an eagle). An epithet ap- plied to that form of nose which is hooked after the manner of an eagle’s beak. Arabesque, ara-besk (French, Ara- besque, after the manner of the Arabs). This term is commonly applied to that class of ornaments with which the Arabs adorned the walls, ceilings, and floors of their buildings, and which consisted of fruits, flowers, mathematical figures — in shoi’t, everything except the forms of human beings and animals, which were in- terdicted by the Prophet. Arabic Figures or Characters. The numeral characters now used in our arithmetic, which were borrowed from the Arabians, and introduced into England about the eleventh centmy. Arable, ara-bul (Latin, aro, to plough). That part of the soil which is chiefly cul- tivated by means of the plough ; land fit for tillage. Arbitration, arby-trayshun (Latin, ar- biter, a judge ; probably from ara, an altar, and iter, a going to ; b, being inserted). The hearing and determining between parties in controversy, by arbiters either chosen by the parties or appointed by the judge or magistrate. Arboreculture, arbory-kulchur (Latin, arbor, a tree ; colo, to cultivate). AEB 23 ^/Jt, art of cultivating' trees and shrubs for •wood or ornamental purposes. Arcades Ambo, arkad-eez am-bo (Latin, arcades amho). Literally, Arcadians both. Used ironically, when speaking of two persons, to imply that they are both strange characters, eccentric personages, or any other derogatory epithet. Arcadian, ar-kaydy-an. Belonging to Arcadia, a r mountainous district in Greece. They were a pastoral people, and are said to have been brought from their original savage condition by the cultivation of music. By poetical association, a thickly- \vooded place, visited by birds, &c., is called an Arcadian grove. Arcanum, ar-ka3mum (Latin, area, a chest). Literally, something concealed in a chest, hence a secret, a mystery. Arcana is the plural form. Arch., artsh (Greek, archos, beginning). Chief ; principal ; commonly used as a syllabic prefix to words, to denote the highest degree of the kind, whether good or bad, as archbishop, the head of the bishops ; arch-impostor, an imjmostor of the very worst description. .^chaeology, arkay-ollojee (Greek, ar- chaios, ancient ; logos, a discourse). In a general sense, a term applied to the know- ledge of antiquity, but, in a narrower sense, the science which inquires into and dis- covers the mental life of ancient nations from their monuments and performances, whether literary, artistical, or mechanical. Arch.es Court. An ccclesiastic.al court of appeal belonging to the arch- bishop of each province, the judge of which is called the Dean of Arches. The court takes its name from the cliurch of St. '^laxj-le-Bow {de arcuhus), the top of which is raised of stone pillars built arch- wise, and where this court was originally held. Archetype, arky-tjqpe (Greek, archos, the earliest ; iupos, a type). The original of which any resemblance i.s made. In the Mint, the standard weight by which the others are adjusted. Archimedian Screw, arky- mcadyan-skroo. A machine for raising water, taking its name from Archimedes, its reputed inventor. It consists of a tube rolled in a spiral form round a cylinder, a modification of which has been introduced as a substitute for paddles in propelling steam-vessels. ARI Archipelago, arky-pelago (Greek, archos, chief , pelogos, the sea). A term applied to any portion of the sea abounding in small islands, but more especially to the Algean Sea, or that part of the INIedi- terranean between the coast of Asia Minor and Greece. Archives, ar-kivz (Greek, archeion, a public building). The place where records or ancient writings are kept. Arctic, ark-tik (Gi-eek, arhtos, tho Northern constellation, the Bear). North- ern ; belonging to tho Ai'ctic regions. Area, a-roah (Latin, area, a threshing floor). Any open space, as the floor of room ; the open part of a church ; the vacant part or stage of an amphitheatre ; an inclosed place, as lists, or a bowling green. Argentine, arjen-tine (Latin, argen- tum, silver). Sounding like silver ; having the appearance of silver. Arena, a-reena (Latin, arena, sand). The space or ground-floor of an amphi- theatre or circus, on which combats or feats of horsemanship are enacted ; so named from the floors of the Roman amphitheatre having been .strewed with sand. Areometer, ayre-ommy-tur (Greek, araios, thin ; metron, measure). A graduated glass instrument for measiu'ing the gravity or density of fluids. Argand Lamp. A lamp fitted with a hollow wick, for furnishing a rapid supply of air to the interior as well as to the ex- terior of the flame. It takes its name from its inventor, w'ho was a native of France. Argonautic, argo-nawtik (Latin, argo, the ship ; nauta, a sailor). Relating to the expedition made in the ship Argo, by Jason and his companions, in quest of the Golden Fleece. Argumentum baculinum, argu- mentura bak-ullnum (Latin). The argu- ment of the stick ; club law ; physical force. Arianism, arean-izum. The doctrines taught by Arius, a presbyter in the Church of Alexandria in the fourth century. Aristarchy, arris-tarky (Greek, aristos, greatest; arche, government). A govern- ment composed of good men ; a system of stern criticism. Aristocracy, ands-tokkrah-se (Greek, aristos, the noblest or best ; krateo, to govern). That form of government in which the supreme power is vested in the 24 ARM ASil nobility ; tho nobility ; the richest und most elevated portion of society. Armillary Sphere, ar-milary-sfeer (Latin, armiila, a bracelet). A hollow sphere representing tho several circles of the globe ; it is so contracted that all tho surface of the sphere is cut away except tho equator, ecliptic, colures, &c. Arminianism, ar-mlnean-izum. The doctrines taught by Arminiiis, a native of Holland ; born in 15G0, died in 1609. Armistice, ar-mis-tis (Latin, arma, ni-ms ; sistere, to stay). A temporary ces- sation of hostilities ; a truce. Aroma, a-romah (Greek, aroma). The odoriferous principle of aromaac plants, or such as have a warm and agreeable odour, as the cardamom. Arrack, ar-rak. The native name of a spirituous liquor prepai’ed in India from rice, the juice of the sugar-cane, and of the cocoa-nut, by distillation. Arraign, ar-rain (Old French, arraxgner; low Latin, arrainare). To indict ; to bring a prisoner forth to trial ; to accuse ; to charge with a faxilt in general. Arraign- ment of a 'prisoner, consists in reading the indictment, and asking the prisoner whether he pleads guilty or not guilty. Arrant, ai’-rant (derivation uncertain, supposed to be Latin, erro, to wander). Bad in an extreme degree, applied generally to persons ; as, an arrant knave, signifying a rambling rogue or vagabond. Arras, ar-ras (from Arras, a town in Fi •anco, where hangings were made). Ta- pestry, hangings adorned with pictorial representations. Arrogate, arrow-gait (Latin, rogo, to ask). To claim unduly ; to assume. Arsenal, arsen-al (Latin, arx, citadel ; navalis, maritime). A Government estab- lishment, in which naval and military engines, or warlike equipments, are manu- factured and stored. Ars est celare artem, ars ost see- lairoy artem. The art is to conceal art, in allusion to the dilliculty of making art appear natural. Arson, ar-sun (Latin, ardeo, to bum). In law, the act of setting fire to a house or other propesrty ; more csfiecially applied to a person wilfully setting lire to his ovyn houso and property, with a view of obtaining coni- peiisation from an Insuranco Company, Artesian Well,ar-teezhyan well (from Artois, tho ancient Artesmm of Franco). A kind of well made by perforating tho ground with a small boro till water is reached ; which, when this is effected, will, in consequence of internal pressure, spring up spontaneously like a fountain. Articles of Faith. Tho particular points of doctrine which form tho creed of certain churches, embodied by the Episco- pal Church of England in what are termed the “ Thii’ty-nino Articles,” composed originally by Cranmer, with the assistance of Ridley and others. Articulo mortis (in), ar-tikulo mor- tis (Latin). At the point of death. Artist, art-ist (Latin, ars, art). Ono who exercises the fine arts, meaning there- by the plastic arts especially. In a general sense tho term is used for the musician, and even the poet, but it is properly limited to the sculptor, painter, and architect. The French word artiste is applied to theatrical performers, and in the same general sense as our own word. Arundel Marbles. Certain tables containing the clrronology of ancient his- tory, particularly of Athens. They were purchased by Thomas, Lord Arundel, and presented to the University of Oxford by his grandson in 1627. Asbestos, as-bestus (Greek, a, not ; sheo, to extinguish). A mineral of which there are several varieties, all marked by their fibrous and flexible qualities. From one of these varieties, a cloth is produced capable of resisting the action of ordinary heat. Ascendant, as-sendant (Latin, ad, to ; scando, climb up). Height ; elevation ; superiority. In astrolegy, that part of the ecliptic at any particular time above the horizon, which is supposed by astrologers to have any great influence on any person born at the time. Thus, at such times as the fortunes of any one are brightening, it is said that his star is in the ascendant. Ascetic, as-setik (Greek, asleo, to dis- cipline). Employed wholly in exercises of devotion and mortification. Ono who re- tires from active life for tho purposes of devotion and self-discii>lino ; a i ccluso ; a hermit. Ashlar, ash-Iar. Freo stones as they are brought from tho quarry. Tho facing of squared stones on tho front of a building. ASP ASY 25 Asparaglis, as-pamih-gns (Greek, spanmo, to tear). An esculent plant with scale-like leaves. Asperity, as-perity (Latin, asper^ rough). Roughness ; harshness of speech or manner. Asperse, as-purso (Latin, ad, _ to ; spargo, to sprinkle). Literally, to sprinkle or stain with spots. In a moral sense, to fix a stain upon a person’s character. Asphalt, as - fait (Greek, a, not ; sphallo, to stumble). A kind ot bitumen used for cementing- and giving firmness to stone, brick-work, &c. It is found in a soft or liquid state on the sm-face of the Dead Sea, which from this circumstance is called Asphaltites, or the Aspihaltic Lake,. Asphyxia, as-fikseah (Greek, a, with- out ; sphyxis, pulse). The state of body in which the pulse is so low as not to be felt ; but more usually applied in medical language to that condition in which vitality is suspended, not from actual death, but from some cause interrupting respiration, as, for instance, when a person is partially Aanged or drowned. Aspiration, aspee-rayshun (Latin, aspiro, to breathe upon). A breathing after ; an ardent wish or desire ; the act of pronouncing with full breath, as the aspi- ration of the letter H. Assafoetida, assah-fetty-dah (Latin, asa, a gum ; foetida, filthiness). A foetidgum obtained from the Persian plant, FerrvJa assafoetida. It is chiefly employed in medi- cine as a remedy for spasmodic affections. Assassin, as-sassin (Arabic, hass, to kill, to surprise). A murderer ; one who kills by ti-cachery or sudden violence. The assassins were a clan or tribe of Ish- maelitos who took possession of the moun- tains of Lebanon, and became notorious for their lawless and murderous deeds. Assault and battery (French, assaut, battre). In law, a malicious act, by which not only violence has been offered, but actual injury done to another. With regard to battery, it is always an assault ; but an assault does not always imply bat- tery, as it may be made without beating. Assay, as-say (French, essayer, to try). A mode of trying metals or separating them from all foreign bodies ; thus gold and silver are assayed by the refiner, to obtain them in their purest state. Assets, as-setz (Latin, ad, to ; satis, bUfficicnt). Goods left by a testator, suffi- cient to pay his debts and legacies. The available property of a banlmipt ; gene- rally, the possessions of a person which are capable of being converted into cash. Assignee, asse-ne (Latin, ad, to ; signo, set a sign upon). The person who is ap- pointed or deputed by another to do any act, or perform any business, or enjoy any commodity. Assignees in hanhrxiptcy are persons appointed to realise a bankrupt’s effects, and to superintend generally the administration of his estate. Assize, as-size (Latin, ad, to ; sedeo, to sit). A sitting or assembly of magis- trates ; a parochial session held by the judges of the superior courts in the coun- ties of England, for the purpose of trying- criminals, and determining civil suits. Asi6Uage,as-swaje (Latin, ad, to ; suavis, sweet). To mitigate sorrow ; to render bodily or mental sufferings less painful and bitter. Assumpsit, as-sumsit (Latin, a55M5?tp5i7, literally — he undertook). In law, a volun- tary promise, by which a person assumes or takes upon himself to perform for or pay anything to another. Asterisk, astur-isk (Greek, aster, a star). A mark like a star (*), made in books by way of reference to a note. Astringent, as-trinjent (Latin, ad, to \ stringo, to bind). Binding ; contracting ; opposed to laxative ; applied also to such substances as alum, which have a tendency to contract the mouth. Astrology, as-trollo-jy (Greek, , depth). A ludicrous descent from the elevated to the mean in writing or speaking. Baton, bat-ong (French, baton, a staff). The staff or truncheon given as a symbol of authority to generals in the French army ; the staff of a field marshal. In music, a rest of four semibreves ; also the Btaff with which the conductor of a band beats time. Batta, bat-tah. Allowances made to troops in India. Dry batta is money given in lieu of rations : wet batta, what is g^ven in kind. Battalion, bat-talyun. A body of in- fantr}'^, generally from five to eight hun- dred in number. A battalion of the line is usually composed of ten companies ; each consists of a lieutenant, an ensign, three or four sergeants, and about seventy- five rank and file, under the charge of a captain. A regular staff of field-officers is appointed to every battalion ; the whole being under the immeiliate command of a lieutenant-colonel. A battalion was origi- nally so called from battalia, a body of men arrayed in the order of battle. Batten, bat-tn (Teutonic, batten). To glut or satiate one’s self ; to grow fat and gross ; to live luxuriously ; applied to land, to make fruitful. Battens, m nautical affairs, long nar- row slips of woud nailed to the coverings of a vessel’s hatches, in order to secure the tarpaulings which are placed over the hatches wlcn regui'-ed This is called ■baltenivAj {L)rovincial term for largo loundod blocks of stone lying on the surface of the ground, or in some instances cmbedtled in the loose soil ; difl'oring in comi) 08 ition from the rock.s in their vicinity, and supposed to have boon traxxsported from a distance. Bouquet, boo-kay (French, bouquet). A nosegay ; a bunch of flowers careKdly culled and arranged with taste. Bourbon Family, boor-bawng. A lino of sovereigns who reigned in Franco from 1.589 to 1848, except during the period of Napoleon Buonaparte’s term of power. It is a branch of the stock of Capet, being descended from a brother of rhilip th» Fair. Bourgeois, boor-zhaw (French, bour- geois, a burgess). A term used generally for citizen ; answering to the English burgess. Bourse, boorse (French, bourse). Lite- rally, a purse ; used to denote the place of exchange in F ranee. Bouts Himes, boo-re-ma (French, bouts, end ; rimes, rhymes). A term for certain rhymes which one person furnis’nes to the unfinished lines written down by another person. Bovine, bo-vino (Greek, bovos, an ox). Relating to cattle of the ox kind. Bowie-knife, bow-e-nife. A long knife or short sword, canted by hunters in the western states of America. Bowline, bo-line. In nautical lan- guage, a rope fastened near the middle of the perpendicular edge of the square-sails, and used to keep the weather-edge of the sail tight forward, when the ship is close hauled. Braggadocio, brag-go-do-sho (fi-om Braggaducckio, the name of a vain-glorious knight, in Spensex'’s ‘'Faery Queen”). A bi’agger ; a vain boaster ; one who invents or exaggei’ates deeds of valour performed by himself. Brahmin, brah-min. The priests or philosophers among the HirLi.:iCM. They take their title from A braham, whom they called Brahma, and affected to imitate the life of the patriarch by living in deserts. The woi'd Bramah also means “knowledge- of laws,” and is the name of the first person in the Trinity of the Hindoos. Bravura Air, bi-ah-voorah (Italian, bravura, coiu’agc). An air consisting chiefly of difficult passages and divisions, in which many notes ai-e given in one syllable, thercfoi’o I’oquiring great unei'gy and spirit, as well as considerable skill, in tlio execution. Breach. In military affaii-s, an opening or gap on'ected in the works of any fortified place, by the fire of the enoiry'.s nrtillory. BRB Bill 39 Breakers, bray-kurs. In marine lan- guage, rocks which lie immediately under the surface, and break the waves as they pass over them ; when these are discerned at a distance, a cry is raised of Breakers a-head! to warn the helmsman to steer out of their course ; they also signify the billows which break against the rocks. Breakwater. Something raised or sunk at the entrance of a harbour, or any projection from the land into the sea,— as a mole, pier, or jetty, so placed at the en- trance, that it may break the force of the waves as they roll inwards. Breastwork. In fortification, a para- et usually made of earth, thrown up as igh as the breasts of the troop.s defend- ing it ; also a sea tenn for the balustrade of the quarter-deck. Breech. In gunnery, the hinder part of a gun ; the solid part of a piece of ord- nance behind the bore. Bressummer, bes-summur (French, brasse-mnr). In architecture, a beam placed horizontally to .support an upper wall or partition ; as the lower beam of a church gallery, and that over a shop window ; this word is also spelt brestsummer. Breve, breev (Latin, brevis, short). The name of a note in music ; the breve with- out a dot after it, is equal to four minims, and is called imperfect ; but when dotted, it is equal to six minims, and is called perfect. Brevet, bre-vet (Latin, brevis, short). A term boiTowed from the French, signify- ing a royal act granting some favour or privilege ; and applied in England and America to a nominal rank in the army, higher than the regimental commission held by the officer. In garrison and brigade duties, it confers precedence according to seniority. Thus, a lieutenant-colonel, being made colonel by brevet, enjoys the pay only of the former, but the honour and privileges of the latter. Breviary, breev-ya-re (Latin, brevis, short). An abridgement ; an epitome ; a book containing the daily services of the Romish Church, as contradistinguished from the missal. Bridewell. A name now generally given in England to houses of correction. The term is derived from the locality of the ancient house of correction in London, built on the site of St. Bridds Well, in Black- friars, first built as a palace, and afterwards used both as a hospital and a prison. Brief, breef (Latin, brevis, short). I law, an abridgement of a client’s case, con taining in a concise form the proofs and objections that may be urged by the oppo- site side, with answers thereto written for the instruction and guidance of a counsel during a trial. Brig. A square-rigged ve.ssel with two masts. One of the peculiarities of a brig is, that she bends her boom-mainsail to the mainmast. Brigade, bre-gade (French, brigade, gang). A division of troops composed of several corps, or of detachments of cavalry and infantry, under the command of a general officer. A brigade-major is an officer appointed to assist the general com- manding a brigade in all liis duties. No officer under the rank of a captain is eligible to hold this post, nor can effec- tive field officers of regiments be appointed majors of brigade. A brigadier is the general officer who has command of a brigade. He is in rank next below a major- general. Brigantine, briggan-tine. A small, flat, open vessel, which is propelled with sails and oars, or with either, and is chiefly employed in fighting or in giving chase. Brigantines are used principally by the corsairs or sea brigands, for the purposes of piracy. Among British seamen this is a square-rigged vessel with two masts, and is distinguished by having her mainsails set near in the plane of her keel, whereas the mainsails of larger ships are hung athwart. Bring-to. In nautical language, to check a vessel’s course, when advancing, by regulating the sails, so that they shall counteract each other, and keep the ship almost stationary. Brisket, bris-kit (French, brechet, breast-bone). The breast of an animal, or that part of the breast adjoining the ribs. Bristol Board. A kind of paper made for drawing upon, formed by pasting sheets of drawing-paper together, and submitting them to the action of a power- ful press, so named from the place of its original manufacture. Bristol Stone. A species of soft diamond, found chiefly in St. Vincent’s Rock, near Bristol. Bristol Waters. Mineral waters of the lowest temperature of any in England, 40 BUO BUL i'ing' the fourth in degree among the waters which arc esteemed warm. Broach to. In navigation, to incline tiddenly to windward of a ship’s course, ■when she sails with a large wind ; or, when J5he sails directly before the wind, to deviate siiddenly from the s-hip’s line of course, bringing her side to windward, and thereby e.\posing her to the danger of upsetting. Broad Cloth. The better kind of cloth used for male attire : it was so called from its great breadth, requiring, in the weaving of it, two persons to sit on either side, and fling the shuttle to one another. Broadside. The -whole side of a vessel. In reference to a naval engage- ment, it signifles a simultaneous discharge of all the guns on one side of a ship of war. Brochure, bro-koor (French, hroclmre, a stitched book). A pamphlet ; a literary performance of slender materials and trivial interest. ^ Brogue, broag (Irish, Irog). A defec- tive pronunciation of a language, par- ticularly applied to the Irish manner of speaking English. Bronchitis, brong-kytis (Greek, hron- Jfiars, the windpipe). An inflammation of some part of the bi’onchiai membrane. Brooch, broach (from hroach, a spit, from its having a little pin of spit, by which it is fastened to the dress). A bosom-buckle or pin ; a jewel. Browbeat. To endeavour to move a person by stern and severe looks, by knitting and depressing the brows, &c. Brownie, brow-ne. In Scotland, a spirit formerly supposed to haunt old houses ; so called, it is conjectured, from its pretended dusky or tawny colour, in contradistinction to the ^airy, from its fidrness. Brownists. A religious sect, the In- dependenls, so called from their founder, Itobert Jlrown, a Puritan, who lived at the end of the sixteenth century. Brown Study. A reverie ; deep thought ; abstraction. It is said to bo a corruption of brow study, from the old German hraxm, brow; or axuj-hraxin, an eye- brow. Bowsprit, 30 -sprit. A largo spar widen projects over the stem of a vessel, to carry it forward ; .as a general rule, its >.‘ngth sho\illotting for political advancement. In British history, one of tho cabinets of Charles II., which consisted of five men famous for their intrigues : — Clifford, Ashley, J5uckingham, Arlington, and Zauderdale— the initial letters of whose names form the word cabal. Cabalistic, kabah-listik (Hebrew, hihd, to receive). Eelating to mysterious agency ; something that has a hidden meaning. The word is derived from ca- bala, a pretended secret science of the Jewish rabbins, by which they could in- terpret difficult passages of Scripture. Cabinet Council, kabby-net kown- sil. The confidential council of a sovereign or executive magistrate. In England, it usually comprises the principal ministers or members of the Cabinet, and is con- vened, from time to time, as circumstances connected with home or foreign policy demand. Cabinet is the diminutive of :abane, a very small apartment or private room. Cabinet Picture. A picture of a small and generally a finished character, suitable to a small room, and for close inspection. Cable’s Length. The measure of one hundred and twenty fathoms. Caboose, kah-booz (German, habuse, a little room). The kitchen or cook-room of a ship ; in smaller vessels, the inclosed fireplace, hearth, or stove, for cooking on the main-deck. Cabriolet, kab-reo-lay (French, cabri- cole, a goat-leap). A two-wheeled vehicle drawn by one horse, and carrying two pas- sengers and a driver. These, as well as vehicles of a similar class having four wheels, are known under the contracted name of cab. Cachet, kash-a (French, cachet). A seal. Leltres de cachet were, under the ancient French Government, warrants to which tho king’s private seal was appended, and put in force for tho imprisenmont of any one. They were abolished in 171)0. Cachinnation, kachy-nayslmn (Latin, cackinno, to laugh loudly). Loud and im- modorato laughter. Cacography, kak-kbggrafoo (Greek, kakox, bad ; (jrapho, to write). Bad S])elling. Cacophony, ka-koffenee (Greek, kakox, bad ; phone, sound). A disagreeable and harsh sound of words ; a discordance or indistinctness of the voice. A fault of .style, consisting in harsh and disagreeable' sound produced by tho meeting of two letters or syllables, or by the too frequent repetition of the same letters or syllables. Cacoethes, kakko-eethiz (Greek, kakox, bad ; ethox, custom). In medicine, a bad habit of body ; in general parlance, an ill habit or inordinate propensity, as cacoeihes scribendi, an itch for scribbling or authorship. Cactus, kak-tus (Greek, kaktox, the ar- tichoke). A genus of succulent plants of very various and often grotesque forms, generally without leaves, having tho stem and branches jointed, for the most part armed with pines in bundles, with which, in many species, bristles are intermixed. Cadaverous, ka-dawer-us (Latin, cadaver, a dead body). Appertaining to a dead body ; having a pale, death-like ap- pearance. The changes induced in a corpse by putrefaction are called cadaveric phe- nomena. Cadence, kay-dens (Latin, cadens, falling). In reading or speaking, a cer- tain note is taken, which is the key-note- on which most of the wordfi are pronounced, and the fall of the voice below this is called cadence. In mxisic, a pause or sus- pension at the end oT an air, or at the termination of a proper chord. Cadet, kah-det (French, cadet, younger brother). The youngest or 3 munger son of a family ; a gentleman who serves in the army with a view ot qualifying himself for the military profession ana obtaining a commission ; a young man attending a military school. In Franco it was the al- most invariable custom for the younger son of good families to embrace the mili- tary profession, and hence, when he arrived at a suitable age, he loecomo a cadet. Caduceus, ka-dowsous. The fabled staff of Mercury, which gave the god power to fly. It is represented as a staff with two serpents twining about upwards, and at tho top a pair of wings. This staff is used as a herald of peace, and was sup- liosed to posseis the power of besto%ving happiness and rioLcs, healing tho sick, raising tho dead, .'ind summoning spirits from tho lower world- c^s CAT. 43 CaDSUra, se-sura (Latin, ccemra, a divi- sion). The separation or panse which is made in the body of a verse in utterance, dividing the line, as it were, into two members. The most advantageous posi- tion for the cajsur.a is generally after the fourth, fifth, or sixth syllable, although it does occasionally take place after the third or the seventh. Cafe, kaf-fay (French, coje). A coffee- house. Caffeine, kaf-fayin. A peculiar prin- ciple of mild, bitter taste, obtained from coffee or tea. Caftan, kaf-tan. A Turkish or Persian robe or vestment. Cairn, kayrn. A name given to a heap of stones, common in Great Britain, par- ticularly in Scotland and Wales, generally of a conical form and covered with a flat stone. Cairns were anciently used, by w'ay of monuments, over the ashes of the great and illustrious : the word is of Celtic origin. Caisson, kay-soon (French, caisson, a chest). A wooden chest, into which bombs or gunpowder are put, and placed under ground in such a manner as to explode at a certain moment. Caitiff, kay-tiff (Italian, cattivo, a slave). A base fellow ; a mean, despicable villain. Cajole, kah-jole (French, cajoler, to coax). To influence or delude by flattery ; to wheedle over by specious representations. Calabash, kalla-bash. A light vessel formed of the shell of the fruit of the calabash- tree emptied and dried ; a popular name for the gourd plant. Calamity, kah-lammy-ty. Any sudden and unexpected misfortune ; a condition of things involving great distress. The term is derived from a storm which de- stroys the harvest by breaking {calamos) the stalks of com. Calcination, kalsy-nayshun (Latin, cali, chalk or lime ; cineraceoiis, ashy). A kind of burning, from which latter pro- cess it differs in the action of the fire being prolonged ; as bones heated in a covered vessel until they become black are termed burnt hones ; but when, by the further operation of heat with contact of air, they become white, they are temied calcined hones. Calculus, kal-kewlus (Latin, calci^^s, a little stone). A term applied to hard or stony substances which form in the body. In mathematics, the differential calculus iit the finding an infinitely small quantity, which, being taken an infinite number of times, shall be equal to a given quantity. Caledonian, Kally-done - yan {Cale^ donia, the ancient name for Sootlandl. Relating to Scotland. Calendar, kalen-dur (Greek, Jcaleo, to call). A register of the year, in which the months, weeks, and days, festivals anti holidays, and stated times, are marked. A calendar month is a month consisting of either thirty or thirty-one days, with the exception of February, and is distinguished from lunar month. Calends, kal-ends (Greek, Icaleo, to call). With the Romans, the first days of the month so named ; because, on those days, it was customary to call aloud or proclaim the number of holidays in each month. Calibre, kal-ebur (French, cavibre, bore of a gun). The bore or size of the bore of a gun ; the diameter of a body ; figura- tively used to denote mental capacity. Caligraphy, kallig-raffy ( Greek, Tcalos, beautiful ; graplio, to write). Ele- gant penmanship;' a neat and regular stylo of writing. Calipash and Calapee. In cookery, terms used to denote the shell and the flesh of the turtle. Calisthenics, kallis-theniks (Greek, halos, beauty; sthenos, strength). A course of bodily exercises, designed to promote gi'ace of movement and strength of frame. Call of the House. A parliamentary term for an imi^erative call or summons sent to every member of Parliament to attend at his place in the House. Callosity, kal-lossy-ty ( Latin, callositas, hardness). An unusual hardness of the skin, as a corn. Callous, kal-lus (Latin, callns, har- dened). Hardened ; insensible ; unfeeling. Callow, kal-lo (Latin, calvus, bare). Unfledged ; naked ; without feathers. Calomel, kalo-mel (Greek, halos, fair ; melos, black). A medicinal preparation of mercury, sublimated so as to render it more gentle in its operation. Caloric, kal-lorik (Latin, calor, heat). A philosophical term applied to that agency which produces the phenomena of heat and combustion ; that fluid or condition, which is diffused through all bodies. 44 CAL CAN Calotype, kalo-type (Greek, halos, l)eautiful; Ujpos, type). The name given by the inventor to the producing of pic- tures on paper, or otlier surfaces, by the agency of light. See Daguerreotype, Photography, &c. Calumet, kal-umet. A kind of pipe, tlie bowl of which is usually made of red, soft marble, and the tube of a reed orna- mented with feathers. It is used by cer- tain Indian tribes as the ensign of peace, and corresponds to the European flag of truce. This pipe affords a pass and safe conduct among all the allies of the nation ; and, in embassies, the ambassador carries it as an emblem of peace. Calumniate, kal - lumnyato (Latin, alvmnior, to slander). To accuse falsely ; ■to slander ; to charge with crime or dis- honourable conduct, with a view of tar- nishing or destroying reputation. Calvary, kalva-ry (Latin, calvaria, a skull ; from calvus, bald). The place where Christ was cmcified ; the name -denoting a place of skulls. In heraldry, a cross so called set upon steps, Calvinism, kalvin-izm. A system ’'f religious doctrine and church govem- /lent taught by John Calvin, and main- c/xined by his followers. The tenets of 'diis system are embraced in five points, — namely, predestination, particular redemp- tion, total depravity, irresistible grace, and the certain perseverance of the saints. The great leading principles of the system, however, are the absolute decrees of God, the spiritual presence of Christ in the Eucharist, and the independence of the Churck Calyx, ka-liks (Greek, hahjx, a cover- ing). A term used in botany, to designate the external covering of a flower, generally resembling the leaves in colour and texture. Cambist, kam-bist (Latin, camhio, to exchange). A name given to those who trade in notes and ])ills of exchange ; also ap]ilicd to a book which treats of the notes of exchange, and tho equivalent values of Aferont moneys. Cambrian, kam-breean {Camhria, tho ancient name of tlio principality of Wales). A native of Wales is so called. Camellia, kah-mool-yah. A genus of beautiful flowering ovorgroon shrubs, natives of China and Japan, and pro- ducing aroso-liko flower, highly prized and worn in tho hair or about tho person on particular occasions, Tho namo is given in honour of G. J. Kamol, or Camellua, a Jesuit. Cameo, kammy-o (Italian, cameo). A term u.sually applied to gems or stones upon which figures are carved in relief. Tho name originates from comahuia, the Oriental term for the onyx. Camera Lucida, kammy-rah lu-.scda (Latin, camera, a chamber ; Iv.c.kLa, light). An optical instrument used for tracing landscapes from nature, and for copying drawings ; also for tho purpo.so of causing any object to appear on the wall in a light room, cither by day or night. Camera Obseura, kammy-rah ob- skewra (Latin, camera, chamber ; ohscuva, dark). An optical instrument for throw- ing tho images of external objects on to a screen in a darkened chamber or box. Campaign, kam-pain (Latin, campus, a plain). A large open, level tract of ground without hills ; the time an anny is actively engaged in war, or keeps tho field without entering into quarters. Campanology, kampah-nollojy). (Latin, cam2^ana, a bell). Tho art of ringing bolls. The science which teaches the various powers and sounds of bells. Camphine, kam-feen. A spirit for burning in lamps, said to consist of oil of turpentine, with a species of naphtha. Canaille, kan-naih (French, canaille, rabble). The lowest of the people ; tho mob ; the class commonly knowm as roufjhs. Canard, kan-ard (French, canard). A hoax ; an idle rumour ; a report ; a mere invention. Candelabrum, kandel-ahbrum (Latin, candelabrum.) A branched candlestick ; a tall stand or support for lamps. Candlemas, kandl-mas (compound of candle and mass). A Eoman Catholic fe.s- tival, celebrated oxi the 2nd of February, in honour of the purification of the Virgin IMary, and so called from the large num- ber of lights or caJicZto used on the occasion. Canescent, kah- nessent ( Latin, can esco, to grow hoary). Growing white or hoary. Canicular, kah- nlke wdar ( Latin, ca7iicnla, a little dog). Belonging to the dog-da3's, which in our almanacks occupy tho time from July 3rd to Augiist 11th. Canine, kah-nino (Latin, caninns, rela- ting to a dog). Belonging to or having the qualities or nature of a dog. Canine teeth are two sharp-edged teeth in each jaw, one on either side. CAN CAP 45 Canister. A name applied to nmslcet balls, stones, scraps of iron, &c., put into cases and sliot out of mortars. Cannel Coal, kan-ncl kolc. A species of coal wlncli has obtained its name from the bright flame unmixed with smoke which it yields during' combustion ; candle being pronounced cannel, in the locality whore the coal is found. It is sufficiently solid to be cut and polished, and worked into trinkets and ornaments. Cannibal, kan-n3'-bal. A human being who eats human flesh. Canny, kan-nc. A word of common use in Scotland, signifying cautious, in- offensive ; and in some parts of the North of England, a frequent expression, applied to a nice, neat, and housewifely woman ; also, sometimes for a clever or shrewd per- son. It may be referred, perhaps, to cun- ning, intelligent, knowing ; or from Saxon, cunnan, whence our old verb can, to know. Canoe, kan-noo. An Indian boat, made of the trunk of a tree hollowed ; or sometimes, from pieces of bark fastened together. Canon, kan-un (Greek, Icanon, a rule, a precept). An established doctrine, law, or ride ; a code of ecclesiastical laws. In the Church of England, a person in pos- session of a prebend or revenue, for the performance of cathedral {chanting) service. The canons of criticism are certain prin- ciples which regulate the judgment given upon works of art, literary performances, &c. Canonical, kah-nonny-kal (Greek, Tcanonikos). According to, or included in the canon. Canonical hours are stated times set apart for the several offices of the Church. Canonicals, a term applied to the full dress of a clergyman. Canonization, kano-nezayshun. The act or ceremony of declaring a deceased person a saint. Cant, kant (Latin, canto, to sing). A whining, affected manner of speaking ; pre- tensions to goodness ; a word or phrase, hacknejred, coi'rupt, or peculiar to some profession ; in a general sense, slang. Cantata, kanta-tah (Italian, cantata). A piece of music for one, two, or more voices, chiefiy intended for a single voice with a thorough bass. Cantatrice, cantah-treech. A song- stress ; a female singer. Canteen, kan-tecn (French, cantine, a bottle-ease'i. A .small vessel made of tin- I plate or wood, in which soldiei's, when on their march or in the field, carry their liquor ; also, the name of a tavern, attached to a camp or barrack. Canter, kant-ur. A slow gallop, slower than a trot ; a person who endeavours to make the world believe that he is pious, by a whining voice, and the semblance of religion. This word is supposed to be associated with Canterbury. Canterbury Tale. A term denoting any exaggerated or improbable story, so called from Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. Canticle, kan-tj^-kul (Latin, canto, to sing). A song, applied to some hymn in Scripture, and used in the plural to signify Solomon’s Song. Canto, kan-to (Italian, canto, a song). Used to denote the division of a poem, otherwise ealled a book. In music, the treble, or higher part of a piece. Canton, kan-ton (French, canton). Division of a country, as the Swiss cantons, governed by its own chief and magistrates ; a small community or clan ; a division or parcel of land. In heraldr}’-, a small S(iuar0 which occupies ©nly a corner of a shield. Cantonment, kan-tunment (Frefich, cantonnenient). The detachment and quar- tering of troops in a town or village, an(§ made to be as near as possible to each other. Canzonet, kan-zo-net (Italian, cc?i:o- netta). A little song in one, two, or three parts. Caoutchouc, kah-oot-chook. The ve- getable substance. India-rubber, and gum- elastic. It is the juice of a South Ameri- can tree, made to ooze from incisions, and thickened by exposure to the atmosphere. Cap of Maintenance. One of the insignia of state, carried before tho sovereigns of England at their coronation ; and also before the mayors of some cities. Cap-a-pie, kap-ah-peai (French, cap- d-pie). From head to foot ; usually applied to a person who is armed or attired in a warlike fashion. Caparison, kah-parry-zun (Spanish, ca.parazon). The dress or trappings of a horse ; the clothing or covering spread over any horse of state. Cape (Latin, caput, a head). In geo- graphy, a headland or projecting portion of the coast. It sometimes terminates in an acute angle, and is then called a point. If the projecting portion is small and low, tho affix ness is employed in England, as in such 46 CAP CAP icrnis as Dungeuess, Sheerness ; and in Scotland, that of niidl, as the mull of Gallo- way. Capet, kah-pai. The name of the founder of the Capet dynasty of French princes. He is said to have been of low origin, and to have usurped the throne in the tenth ccntuiy. On the accession of the house of Bourbon, the name of Capet was cither given to them, or taken by them ; thus, all the processes in the trial of Louis XVI. were made against Zowis Capet. Capias, kay-peeas (Latin, capio, to take). In law, a writ of two kinds ; one before judgment, termed capias ad respon- dendum, in an action personal, if the sheriff, upon the first writ of distress, return that he has no effects in his jurisdiction ; the other is a writ of execution after judgment, termed capias ad satisfaciendum, in which the sheriff is commanded to take the body in execution. Capillary, kap-illah-ry (Latin, capil- lar is, relating to the hair). Resembling a hair ; small, minute. Capillary attraction is the power by which a liquid ascends in the interior of a capillary tube — or tube of small bore — above the surface of the liquid which sur-rounds it. Capitalist, kappit-a-list. A person possessed of large property ; one who has a considerable capital sunk in trade, or advanced in speculation. Capitol, kappy-tol (Latin, capitoliuni). The temple of Jupiter, built upon the Tarpeian rock at Rome. Here the senate assembled, and in this temple they made their vows, and took the oaths of allegiance. Capitulate, kap-ittu-late (Latin, caput, the head). To yield or surrender on cer- tain stipulations ; to di-aw out a document in heads or articles. Caponier^, kappo-neer (French, capo- nkre). In fortification, a passage from one part of a work to another, protected by a parapet. Capriccio, kah-pritsh-eo (Italian, cajn-iccio, fancy). In music, applied to passages where the composer indulges his fancy, without being bound to keys or moods. Rerhai‘)s from the Latin, caper, a goat. Caprice, kah-proe.so (Italian, capriccio, whimh Sudden or unreasonable ch.angc of mind or humour ; freak ; fancy ; whim. Capricorn, ka))ry-kawrn (Latin, capri- cornus). In astronomy, one of tlio twelve signs of the zodiac, represented in the form of a goat ; it is the first of the winter, and fourth of the southern signs. Capriole, kap-reole (French, cahriole). That kind of leap which a horse makes in the same place without advancing. Capstan, kap-stan (French, cahestan). A large piece of timber in the shape of a cone, u.sually placed behind the windlass of a ship, to weigh anchors, hoist up or strike down top-masts, strain ropes, or heave any heavy, bulky thing on board ship. Capsule, kap-.sulo (Latin, capsule, a small receiver or case). A term applied in botany, to a membranous or woody seed- vessel, internally consisting of one or more cells, splitting into several valves, and sometimes discharging its contents through pores or orifices, or filling out entire with the seed. Caption, kap-shun (Latin, captio). In English law, a certificate subscribed by commissioners in chancery, declaring when and where the commission was executed. In Scotch law, a writ issued commanding the apprehension of a debtor. Peers and married women are secured against per- sonal execution by caption upon civil debts. Captious, kap-shus (Latin, captiosus, sophistical). Snarling ; easily provoked ; given to quarrelling. Caput Mortuum, kap-ut mor-tewum (Latin, caput, the head ; mortuum, death). A fanciful term, formerly used to denote the remains in a retort after distillation, or drying. It is now called Residuum. Figu- ratively used to imply anything worthless. Caracole, karra-kole (French, caracole). In horsemanship, an oblique movement of a horse, tread out in half-rounds, changing from one side to the other without observ- ing a regular ground ; also, the half-turn which a horseman takes after his discharge, to pass from front to rear. Carat, kar-at (French, carraC). A term used in a relative sense to express the fine- ness of gold. It means the twenty-fourth part of any given weight of that metal, or of its alloy. If such a weight be pure gold, it is said to be 24 carats fine ; if three- fourths only bo gold, it is 18 carats fine. The diamond carat, however, is a definite weight, equal to 3^th troy gi-ains ; and the pearl carat equal to four-fifths of a troy grain. Caravan, karrah-van (Spanish, c«ra- vana). A company of morebants, or CAR CAR 47 pilgrims, in the East, who travel in an •organised body through the deserts. Caravansary, karrah - vansaree (Spanish, caravana). A large building in the East, which serves as a kind of inn for caravans of travellei-s. The building usually dorms a square, in the middle of which is a spacious court, and vinder the arches or piazzas that surround it, there runs a bank raised some few. feet from the ground, where the merchants and travellers take iip their lodgings, the beasts of burden being tied to the foot of the bank. Carbine, kar-byne (French, carabine). A short gun carrying a ball 24 to the pound, borne by light horsemen. Carbon, kar-bun (Latin, carlo, coal). The pure, inflammable part of charcoal, free from all the hydrogen and earthy particles which charcoal usually contains. Carbonate, karbun-at. A salt formed fey the combination of carbonic acid with •different bases, as carbonate of copper, &c. Carbonic Acid, kar-bonik as- sid. A compound of carbon and oxj'^gen, called also fixed air. It is gaseous, colourless, and cannot support respiration or combus- tion. Carboy, kar-boy. A large glass or bottle cased in basket-work, generally em- ployed for holding vitriol and other acids. Carcass, kar-kas. In building, the shell of a house before it is lathed or plas- tered, or the flooring laid down. Cardiac, kar-deeak (Greek, hardia, the heart). Belonging to the heart. Cardinal Numbers. These are the numbers, one, two, three, &c. ; in distinction from first, second, third, &c., which are ordinal numbers. Cardinal Points. The four points or divisions of the horizon ; namely, North, South, F/ist, and West. Cardinal Virtues. These are fre- quently alluded to as the “ four cardinal virtues;” namely, prudence, temperance, justice, and fortitude. Cardinal Winds, are those winds which blow from the cardinal points. Careen, ka-rcen (French, carener). To heave or lay a vessel on one side for the purpose of repairing. Caret, kay-ret (Latin). A mark (a) used in writing, and placed where some word has been omitted, which is inserted either above the caret or in the margin. Caricature (Italian, caricatura). The representation of a person or circumstance in such a manner as to render the original ridiculous. Caries, ka-re-es (Latin, caries). A term used to designate the ulceration of a bone, or that state of a bone which is analogous to ulceration of the soft parts. Carminative, kar-minnah-tiv (Latin, carmen, a charm). A specific which allays spasmodic affections, and dispels flatulence. Carnage, kar-naje (French, carnage). Great slaughter ; considerable bloodshed, without distinction of persons. Carnival, kar-ny-val (Italian, carna- vale). A season of revelry and feasting observed in Roman Catholic countries, just previous to Lent. Carnivorous, kar-nivver-us (Latin, carnis, flesh ; voro, to devour). Flesh devouring ; applied to animals which feed on flesh. Carotid, kah-rottid (Greek, Icaroo, to cause sleej:)). The term applied to an artery on each side of the neck. Its name is derived from the supposition of the ancients, that an increased flow of blood to the head caused sleep. Carousal, kah-rowzal. A festival ; a revel ; a noisy drinking bout. Some autho- rities derive this word from the Italian, carricello, a chariot ; an entertainment con- sisting originally of a contest of chariots and horses, and afterwards used to denote what is now understood as a carousal. Carpology, car-polo-jy (Greek, harpos, fruit ; logos, a discourse). In botany, that branch of the science which treats of fruits. Cairngorm, kayrn-gorm. A species of quartz, of various colours and sizes, found on Cairngorm, a mountain of Scotland, belonging to the Grampian Hills. The cairngorm are also called Scotch pebbles, and are used for seals, brooches, and other trinkets. Carrion, karry-un (Latin, caro, carnis, dead flesh). The putrid carcass of animals ; flesh so corrupted as to be unfit for food. Carte, kart (French, carte). A bill of fare ; a list of the various dishes prepared for a repast. Carte Blanche, kart blansh (French, carte blanche). A blank paper with a sig- nature only attached, and, if necessary, sealed by the ])arty against whom it is to bo used, in order that it may be filled up with such conditions as may be thought 48 CAR CAT proper by the party to whon; it is delivered. This term is also used in a general sense, to imply unrestricted authority granted to a person, to bo used according to his own pleasure and discretion ; also, an order to disburse money, or incur responsibilities, without any limit being set by the person on whoso behalf the transactions are under- taken. Cartel, kar-tel (Spanish, cartello). An agreement between two belligerent states for the exchange of their prisoners of war ; also a written challenge to fight a duel. Cartilage,karty-lidj (Latin, cartilago). A smooth, elastic, glistening substance, softer than bone and harder than muscle, commonly called gristle. Cartoon, kar-toon (Italian, cartone). Tn painting, a design drawn on thick paper, to be afterwards traced through, and trans- ferred on to the fresh plaster of a wall, to be painted in fresco. Case, (Latin, msws, a falling). Literally, that which falls ; hence an event or state of things which are sometimes alluded to as having “fallen” upon a certain day. In grammar, case denotes the variation in writing and speaking, expressing the rela- tion in which it stands to some other part of the sentence. Case-hardening. A method of pre- paring iron and making it hard, so as to render it capable of resisting any edged tool. Caseine,kay-se-in. One of the impor- tant elements of animal nutrition ; found in milk, in the seeds of leguminous plants, &c. Casemate, kase-mate (Italian, casa- matta). In fortification, a vault of mason’s work in the flank of a bastion, serving as a battery to defend the opposite bastion and ditch. Castalian, kas-tale-yan. Pertaining to Castalia, a fountain of Parnassus, sacred to the Muses. The waters of this fountain were fabled to have the power of inspiring those who drunk them with the true fire of poetry. Castanet, kastah-not (Spanish, casta- neta). An instrument formed of concave shells, ivory, or hard wood, fastened to the fingers, and sounded to the time of a dance or song. Caste, ka.st. A name for the tribes of dilfcront omi)loymonts into which the Hindoos aro separated orclassiliod, through Buccessivo gouorutions ; colloquially, the term is used among us to imply statiou in life, or social position, so that .a porsoc who commits any disreputable action Ib commonly said to have tost caste. Cast-iron. The iron as it is extracted from the ores, being cast in a species of moulds ; called also pin-iron, and cast metal. Casting Vote. The vote of a per. son who presides over an assembly, or council, where the votes generally aro the same on either side, and that of the president de- cides the matter at issue. Casuistry, kazhu-istry (Latin, casus, an event). The doctrine or science of con- science ; or the doctrine of resolving cases of doubtful propriety, and determining the lawfulness or unlawfulness of certain acta and opinions, by the application of rules from Scripture, laws from society, or from equity and natural reason. Casus Belli, kay-zus bel-le (Latin, casxis belli). The cause of war ; a plea for making war. Catabaptists, kattah -baptists (Greek, hata, against ; baptize, to baptise). A term used to denote those who oppose infant baptism, oi deny the necessity of baptism at all. Catacomb, kattah -kome (Greek, Tcala, against ; hjmbos, a hollow place). A grotto, cave, or subterraneous place, for the burial of the dead. Catafalque, kattah-falk (Italian, cata- falco). A scaffold, or temporary structure of carpentry, decorated with painting and sculpture, representing a tomb, and used in funeral ceremonies. Cataleetie, kattah-lektik (Greek, J:ata- leltikos, deficient). In classic poetry, a verse deficient of one syllable of its proper length. Catalepsy, kattah-lepse (Greek, kata- lambano, to seize). A milder form of apo- plexy or epilepsy. It consists in a total suspension of sensibility and voluntarj’’ motion, and generally also of mental power, the pulsation of the heart and breathing continuing ; the muscles remaining flexible, the body yielding to and retaining any given position. Catalogue, kattah-log (Greek, kata, down ; lo(]ios, word). An enumeration or list of men or things methodically arranged. Catalogue raisonne, is a catalogue of books classilied according to their subjects. CAT CAU Cataplasm, katah-plazm (Greek, kata, against ; plasso, to form). A soft, moist application ; a poultice. Catamaran, katah-ma-ran. A species of light boat which the ancient Egyptians used for crossing the Nile or floating on its waters ; it is constructed of the humblest materials, and bound together as a sheaf, j Also the name of a floating battery, with an apparatos for blowing up ships. Cataract, katah-rakt (Greek, kata, against ; rasso, to dash). A groat fall of water over a precipice ; a disease of the 'eye from the opacity of the lens or pupil. Catarrh., kah-tar (Greek, kata, down ; r?teo, to flow). A term for a cold in the head, or on the chest ; it is usually accom- panied by a discharge from the nostrils. Catastrophe, kat-astrofee (Greek, kata, against; strophe, a turning). A final «vent or conclusion ; the termination of a dramatic plot ; misfortune ; disaster. Catcall. A small squeaking instru- ment, formerly used to convey disappro- bation in theatres ; the peculiar noises still made by the fi-equenters of the galleries go by the same name. Catch. A musical composition of a humorous kind, arranged for three or four voices, with as many verses or couplets as there are parts. The catch is so contrived, that a meaning is given to the lines alto- srether different from that which a^i- pears when they are read in o.n ordinary manner. Catchpenny. A low-priced pamphlet or other publication, which practises on jjopular credulity for the purpose of ex- toi’ting money. Catch-word. A word formerly placed at the bottom of a page, intended as the leading one of the page succeeding. Catechism, katty-kizm (Greek, kata, against ; echeo, to sound). A form of instruction by means of question and an- .swer. In its primary sense, an induction into the principles of the Christian re- ligion, delivered by word of mouth, and so as to necessitate frequent repetitions from the disciple or hearer of what has been uttered. Category, katty-gorry (Greek, kata, against; agora, a discourse). In logic, a system or assemblage of all the beings under one kind or genus ; in a general sense an arrangement of persons, things, ideas, &c., into classes. 4i, Cater, kay-tur (French, catheter, to buy) To provide food ; to purchase provisions j to procure for other persons. Cater-cousin, kay-tur kuz-in. A pej. son related to another by blood in a remote degroe ; the word is a corruption of quatre- cousin ; it is used conventionally to denote close ir.timacy from friendship. Cates, kates (Belgic, katter). Dainty and delicious food ; cakes ; rich dishes. Cathartic, ka-thartik (Greek, kathartes, a scavenger). Purgative ; applied to medi- cines of an active and aperient nature. Catholic, katho-lik (Greek, kata, re- ferring to ; holos, the whole). Pertaining to the Roman Catholic Church ; the word in a general sense means universal ; em- bracing the whole ; comprehensive ; unre- stricted. Thus, a person who entertains a subject in a liberal and comprehensive manner, is said to exercise a catholic spiHU Cat’s-paw. Among seamen, a light air pei-ceived in a calm by rippling on the surface of the water; conventionally, a person who does something for a principal which he is ashamed or afraid of doing himself. Caucasian, kaw-kayzh-yan. Pertain- ing to Caucasus, a celebrated mountain range between the Euxine and Caspian. Seas. The Caucasian race forms one of the five pi'incipal varieties of mankind, to which the nations of Em-ope and some of the western Asiatics belong. In this class the head is almost round, and of the most symmetrical shape ; the cheek-bones witn- out any projection ; the face oval ; and the features moderately prominent. Caudal, kaw-dal (Latin, cauda, a tail). Pertaining to the tail, as the caudal fin of a fish ; also, the thread which terminates the seed of a plant. Caul, kawl (Latin, caula). A membrane found on the heads of some newly-bom children. It is vulgarly supposed that any individual having a child’s caul upon his person, cannot be drowned ; hence cauls are frequently advertised for by superstitious persons, and high prices given for them. Caulking, kaw-king. In nautical lan- guage, the repairing of a ship by forcing oakum or other matter into the seams of the planks, and afterwards applying a mixture of tallow and pitch, or tar. Causality, kaw-zality. Agency of a cause. In phrenology, the faculty of tracing effects to causes. s 60 CAU CEN Caustic, kaw-stik (Greek, laio, to Inirn), Jkinung ; hot ; acting like fire. Jaiuuv caustic, nitrate of silver nsod for a corrosive. In a ligurativo sense, stinging, cutting, pungent ; as a caustic speech. Cauterize, kawtur-izo (Greek, laio, to burn). To burn or sear with a hot iron, or with caustic. Cavalier, kavah-locr (Greek, lalalles, a horse on which loads are thi’own). An armed horseman; a knight ; a gay, si^i'ightly military man ; a term ai)plied to tho adherents of Charles I. In fortification, a work raised within tho body of rt place, above the other works. Cavalierly, kavah-leerly. Disdainfully; haughtily ; in the manner of a cavalier. Cavalry, kaval-ro (Greek, laballes). Military horsemen. This branch of the service is divided into light and heavy cavalry, being armed and mounted accord- ingly. A regiment of cavalry is divided into four squadrons, and each of these into two troops. Cavatina, kavah-toenah (Italian, cavo,- Ima). A short air without a return or second part, which is sometimes relieved \y a recitative. Caveat, kajwe-at (Latin, caveat, lot him beware). In common law, a term , denoting a formal notice or caution to stop proceedings ; also, an intimation or notice of intention to apply for a patent for some invention. Caviare, kav-yaro (German, laviar). A food prepared from the roes of certain ■fish, especially that of the sturgeon, salted ; it is consumed in largo quantities in Eussia. Cavil, kav-il (Latin, cavillor, to satirise). To raise captious or futile objections. Cavr, kaw (formed from the sound). To make a noise like a rook, raven, or crow. Cayenne Pepper, kay-yen ])ep-per. A very pungent {)epj)er, obtained from tho pods of several species of tho capsicum ; which originally came from Cayenne, in South America. Cede, seed (Latin, cedo, to yield). To give up to another; to yield; to relinquish po.sseasion. Cedilla, so-dillah (Frcncli, cediUe). A Small mark placed under the letter c (tLu.s, <;), to denote vvlion that letter is to 1)0 pionounced soft; it is chiefly used in French words. Celibacy, solly-ba-se (batin, ccelehs, a bachelor). Single life ; unmarried state Tho clergy of tho Church of Homo are obliged to conform to celibacy. Cellular Tissue, soll-lowlar tis-shu (Latin, cdhda, a littlo cell). Tho elastic connecting tissue of the various parts of animal and vegetable bodies, consisting of cellules or vesicles of various figures ad- hering together in masses. Celtic, sol-tik. Pertaining to tho Celts, or early inhabitants of Britain, Gaul, Spain, and the south and west of Europe. Cemetery, semmy-tere (Greek, heiviai, to bo dead). A place set apart for the inter- ment of the dead. Cenotaph, seno-taf (Greek, lenos, empty ; taiduos, a sepulchi’e). A monu- ment erected to tho memory of a person, whose remains lie buried in another place ; such arc the majority of the monuments in Westminster Abbey. Censer, sen-sur (French, encensoir, per- fuming pan). The pan or vessel in which incense is burned. Censor, sen-sor (Latin, censor). In Piome, a magistrate who corrects tho morals and manners of the people ; hence, a person who undertakes to correct others is so called. Census, sen-sus (Latin, census). An enumeration of the inhabitants of a country taken by Government authority. In Great Britain a census of the popula- tion is taken every ten years. Cent, sent (Latin, centum, a himdred). In commerce, a tenn used to express tho profit or loss, per hundred, arising from the sale of any commodity, the rate of commission, exchange, the interest of money, &c. ; as 10 per cent, is the tenth part of a hundred, 20 per cent, the fifth part, and so on. Cent is also the name of a copper coin of the United States, of tho value of one hundredth part of a dollar, and answering very nearly to the English half- penny. Centaur, sen-taur. In mythology, a fabulous monster, depicted as half a man and half a horse; it also represent.s Sagittarius, the archer, one of tho signs of tho Zodiac. Centenarian, senty-narean (Latin, centum, a himdred). A person who has attained one hundred years. Centennial, sent-onny-al (Latin, cer^ turn, a hundred). Consisting of a hundred years ; hai'poning every centiuy. CEN CES 51 Centime, son-tecm (French, centime). The hundredth pai*t of a franc ; ten centimes answer to the English penny. Centipede, senty-peed (Latin, centum, a hundred ; a foot). The name com- monly but erroneously given to insects which have many feet. In some species they are found to number twenty-six pairs. Cento, sen- to. In poetry, a piece wholly composed of the verses of other authors, wherein sometimes whole lines, and at others, half verses are borrowed, but set dovm in a new order, and applied to a subject different from that in which they were originally introduced. Centre of Gravity. That point about which the parts of a body, in any situation, V alfince each other ; if this con- dition be not- maintained, the body yields or falls ; thus, a coach or a boat which overturns, does so because it loses its centre of gravity. Centralization, sontral-izayshun (Greek, kentron, a point). Tendency to a centre ; the act of centralizing. Centrifugal, sent - rifu - gal (Latin, centrum, a centre \.fugio, tody). Tendency to recede from the centre. The centri- fugal force of a body is that force by which any body moving in a curve en- deavours to recede from the centre. Centumviri, sen-tum-ve-ri. Roman judges, who were chosen three from each of the thirty-five tribes, making in all one hundred and five, though they were esti- mated in round numbers as one hundred men, and so called. Century, sentu-re (Latin, centum, a hundred). A hundred years ; usually em- ployed to specify a certain period, as the nineteenth century ; sometimes the word is used simply to denote a hundred. Cephalic, sefah-lik (Greek, kephale, a head). Appertaining to the head ; a medi- cine for the head. Cerate, se-rat (Latin, ceratum, wax oint- ment). A preparation, or healing plaster, of which wax forms the principal ingredient. Cerberus, serby-rus. In mythology, a dog or monster with three heads, who guarded the entrance of the infernal re^ons ; a surly and jealous doorkeeper is ironically thus named. Cereal, seree-al {Ceres, the goddess of a^culture), A term applied to grain yielding food to man or beast ; as wheat, oats, barley, rye, &». Cerebral, seree-bral (Latin, cerebrum, the brain). Pertaining to the brain. Cerecloth, sear-kloth (Latin, cera, wax ; and cloth). Cloth smeared with wax and other substances; employed by the ancients in wrapping around dead bodies. Ceremony, serry-munny (from Cei-es, the goddess of agriculture, who was wor- shipped with much solemnity). Outward rite ; external form of religion ; impres- sive forms of state ; frigid civility. Certes, ser-tez (French, certes). An old word, signifying certainly, truly, indeed. Certiorari, ^ershio-rari. In law, a vu-it issued out of Ch.ancery or other superior court, to call up the records of an inferior court ; or remove a cause then pending, that it may be tried in a superior court. This writ is obtained upon complaint of a party that he cannot in an infeiior court receive justice, or that he is not ca'tain of receiving it. 1 Certificate, ser-tiffy-kate (Latin, certus, certain). A testimony given in writing to certify or make known any truth ; as cer- tificate of marriage, of baptism, of bank- ruptcy. Cerulean, se-mlean (Latin, coeruleus^ blue). Sky-coloured, or sky-blue. Cerumen, seru-men (Latin, co'umen). Wax secreted by the ear. Cervical, servee-kal (Latin, cervix, the neck). Belonging to the neck. Cessavit, ses-sayidt (Latin, cessavit, he hath ceased). In law, a writ issued to recover lands, when the tenant or occupier has ceased for two years to perform the service or pay the rent which constitutes the condition of his tenure, and has not sufficient goods and chattels to be dis- trained. CessioBonorum,sesh-sheobon-orum. A Latin law pln^ase, meaning the surrender by an insolvent debtor of his entire pro- perty to his crerlitors. This exempts him from all personal penalties. Cession, sesh-shun (Latin, cesso, to cease). The act of simrcndering, or jdelding up to a creditor, the goods, property, &c,, of a debtor. In Ecclesiastical law, when a person accepts a second benefice or dignity in the Church, which is incompatible by law with that which he previously held, the latter is said to be void by cession* Cesspool, ses-pool. A well sunk under ground to receive water and refuse from drains. I I 52 CES CIIA Cefitufi, Bes-tus (Latin, cestus). Tho girdle of Venns, or marriage girdle, which was fabled to invest tho person who wore it with irresistible charms. Cetacea, se-taysheah (Greek, l-etos, a whale). An order of animals inhabiting tho ocean, of which tho whale and the dol- phin are examples. Theso animals re- semble fishes in their general natures, but they breathe air, have warm blood, and a double circulation ; the tail is also horizontal, and not vertical as in true fishes. Chafe, tshafe (Latin, calefacere, to make warm). To warm by rubbing ; figu- ratively, to heat a person’s temper by a contradictory or peevish manner. Chaffer, tshaf-fur (German, haufen, to buy). To haggle ; to bargain ; to treat about a purchase. Chafing Dish, tshafo-iug dish. A utensil made use of to contain live coal, or charcoal, for keeping anything warm, or for heating anything when cold. Chagrin, sha-green (French, chagrin). Displeasure, ill-humour, or peevishness arising from anything done to vex, or in opposition to a person’s inclinations. Chalice, chal-lis (Latin, calix.^ a cup). A vessel formerly used as a drinking- cup ; but the term is now applied to the cup which contains the wine in the celebration of the communion, or Lord's supper. Chalybeate, kah-libby-ate (Latin, chalyhs, iron or steel). Impregnated with iron ; a word applied to water, medicines, or other fluids containing iron in solution. Chamberlain, chambur-lin. An offi- cer charged with the management and direction of a chamber. In England, the Lord Iligh Chamberlain is the sixth officer of the Crown. He has to perform certain duties at tho coronation, and has under liim ushers, yeomen-ushers, and door- keepers. The Lord Chamberlain of the Household is tho overseer of all officers belonging to tho royal chambers, except tho bed-chamber, wardrobe, &c., and ad- ministers tho oath to all officers above- fitairs. The Chamberlain of the Exchequer, of London, of Chester, of North Wales, &c., are commonly receivers of rents and revenues, and have certain rights and im- munities attached to their situations. Chameleon, kahmeol-yun (Greek, chamai, on tho ground ; Icon, lion). An animal of tho lizard tribe, oi’iginally sup- posed to live on air. Its most roinarkablo characteristic is, tho assuming tho colour of flic thing to which it is applied, but its natural colour, in tho shade, and at rest, is a blueish grey. Chamois Leather, shara-oy Icth-ur. A soft leather made from the skin of tho Chamois, an animal of tho goat kind. Champagne, sham-pain. A brisk, sparkling wine, named from Champagne, ono of tho former provinces of France. Champaign, sham-pain (French, Champagne). A flat, open country. Champerty, tsham-purty (French, champart, field-rent). In law-suits a species of maintenance, being a bargain with a plaintiff or defendant, to divide the land or other matter at issue between them, if they prevail ; whereupon, the champertor is to carry on tho party’s suit at his own ex- pense. Champion, tshamp-eon (Latin, campus, a plain). Ono who undertakes a combat in the place of another, or in his own cause. The Champion of England is a person whose office is hereditary, and who, upon the day of coronation, rides into Westminster Hall, and throws down his gauntlet as a challenge to any one who dare contest the sovereign’s right, Chance-Medley. In law, the acei- dental killing of a person in a fray or in self-defence. Chancel, tshan-sel (Latin, cancelli, lattice work). The eastern part of a church, where the altar stands. Chancellor, tshan-sellur (Latin, cav.- celli, cross-bar or ruling), A high officer of state or of some public establishment. The Lord High Chancellor of England is the first person in tho realm, after the sovereign and princes of the blood. The Chancellor of the Exchequer, has the custody and control of the funds of the nation. Chancery. The highest court of justice in Great Britain next to Parliament, consisting of two distinct tribunals one, ordinary, being a court of common law; tho other extraordinary, being a court of equity. Chanticleer, tshanty-kleer (French, chant, crowing ; clair, clear). The name given to the cock, from the shrillness and loudness of his crow. Chantry, tshan-tro (Latin, cano, to sing). A church or chapel endowed for tho maintenance of ono or more priests, for tho purpose of singing masses for the souls of tho (lonors, or such as tho donors have appointed to bo prayed for. CHA CHA 53 Chaos, kay-os (Greek, chaos). Con- fusedness; disorder; undistinguisbable mix- ture of elements. Chaotic, kay-otic (Greek, chaos). A state resembling chaos. Chapeau, shah-po (French, chapeau). A hat or cap. In heraldry, an ancient cap of dignity worn by dukes ; it is frequently borne above a helmet instead of a wreath under gentlemen’s crests. Chaperon, shaper-ong (French, chape- ron). A kind of hood; a lady’s attendant and protector in public. Chapfallen, tshap-fawln. Having the mouth shrunk or the jaw fallen down; originally applied to a helmet; figura- tively, it denotes the expression of a per- son’s face who has met with any serious loss or disappointment. Chaplet, tshap-let (French, chapelet). A garland or wreath to be worn around the head; a string of beads used by Roman Catholics, by which they count the number of their prayers. Chapman, tshap-man (Saxon, ceap>- man), ^ne who offers goods for sale; a cheapener ; a buyer and seller. In Scot- land, a travelling dealer or packman. Chapter, tshap-tur (French, chapitre). The division of a book ; a society or com- munion of clergymen belonging to cathe- drals and collegiate churches ; also, a meet- ing of the members of an order of knight- hood. Char, tshar (Saxon, cerran, to burn!. To turn to a black cinder. Characteristic, karak-teristik (Greek, charahter, a mark, or impression). A distinguishing feature; that which con- stitutes the character of a person or thing. Charade, shah-rahd (French, charade). A species of riddle, the subject of which is a name or word that is proposed for solu- tion from an enigmatical description of its several syllables, and of the whole word. An acting charade is one in which the actors illustrate the composition by appro- priate action, leaving the spectators to divine the meaning. Charcoal, tshar-koal. The residue of wood after having been charred, being car- bon in a nearly pme state. Charge d’ Affaires, shar-zhay daf- fair. In diplomatic missions, the third and lowest class of official entrusted with the affairs of a state at a foreign court. Charger, tshar -jar. A high-mettled horse used in war to charge, or advance swiftly towards the enemy. Charivari, shar-e-va-roe (French, cha- rivari). A mock serenade of discordant music. This is the title of the principal comic journal of France, answering to the English Ptmeh. Charlatan, shariah- tan (French, charla- tan). A mountebank; a quack; a mere pretender. Charles’s Wain. In astronomy, seven remarkable stars, the constellation of the “Great Bear” forming the figiure of a rustic wain, or waggon. Charnel House, tshar-nel house (Latin, carnis, flesh, and house). A de- pository for the bones of the dead. Chart, tshart (Latin, charto). A term applied to a marine map for the use of navigators, showing the sea-coasts, rocks, sands, bearings, &c. The chart globular is a projection, so called from the confor- mity it bears to the globe itself. Charter, tshar-tur (French, chartre). A legal instrument executed with custo- mary forms, given as evidence of a grant, or something done between man and man. In its more general sense, it is the instru- ment of a grant, conferring powers, rights, and privileges from some sovereign or party having power to grant such charters. Charter Party. In maritime affairs, a deed or written contract for the letting to freight the whole or part of a vessel for one or more voyages ; the ship is then said to be chartered for the voyage. Chartism, tshar- tizm. In England, the principles held by the democratic body called Chartists; consisting of fivo leading points, namely : — universal suffrage, annual parliaments, vote by ballot, elec- toral districts, and payment of members of parliament. Charybdis, karib-dis (Greek, charyh dis). A dangerous whirlpool in the Strait of Messina, in Sicily, nearly opposite to Scylla, a rock on the coast of Italy. In figura- tive language, these two words are used to express two different kinds of danger. As, to “escape Charybdis only to meet with Scylla.” Chasseurs, shas-surze (Freneh, chas- seurs). A French term for a select body of light infantry, who are required to be par- ticularly agile and expert in their move- ments. 64 CHA cno Chateau, shah-to (French, chAieau). A country scat; a gentleman’s mansion. Formerly used to denote a castle or baro- nial hall in France. Cheap-Jack. The name given to an itinerant huckster, or dealer in hardware, &c., and who puts his goods up to auction among the crowd, indulging at the same time in volleys of coarse wit, and random assertions, i-especting the wares he has to offer. Checkmate. The movement on a *hess-board which hinders the opposite men from moving, and terminates the game. Mate is from the Spanish matar, to kill. Checker Work, tshek-ur wurk. W ork varied alternately, as to its colours or materials. Cheek by Jowl. Side by side. Said often of persons in such close confabulation as almost to have their faces touch. Chef d’CEuvre, shay-durver (French, chef d’ oeuvre). A master-piece ; a perform- ance of distinguished merit. Chegoe, tzheg-o (Spanish, chiqvAto, small). A tropical insect which enters the skin of the feet, producing great pain and annoyance. Cherub, tsher-ub. A word used in Scripture for certain symbolical figures with one or more heads, and furnished with wings ; a celestial spirit ; a beautiful child. The plural of this word is cherubim. Chevalier, shevah-leer (French, cheva- lier). A knight; a horseman; a gallant young man. Chevaux de Frise, shevo-deh-freez {YrQnch., chevaux de frise). In fortification, a pieco of timber armed with spikes to defend a passage ; also applied to the spikes set in, ordinarily, on the top of a wall. Chevron, shev-run (French, chevron). A. military badge worn on the coat-sleeve. In heraldry, an honourable ordinary, repre- senting two rafters of a house set up as they ought to stand. In architecture, a simple ornament consisting of short lines, joining at angles. Chiara Oscuro, kyah-rah-osku-ro (Italian). In painting, that important part which relates to light and shade ; referring not only to the mutable effects which light .■and shade i)roduco, but also to tho per- manent differences in lightness and dark- ness. Chiboque, tcni-oooKe. a Turkish pipe. Chicanery, shokain-aroo (French, chicanerie). Alcan artifice or stratagem ; sophistry ; evasion. Chiltern Hundreds. Steward., gold). In insect life, that state wliich occurs between the caterpillar or gx’ub form and the perfect winged insect. In this stage the animal lies inactive, takes no food, and is inclosed in a transparent covering, which has often a metallic lustre and a golden hue ; hence its name. Cicatrice, sikkah-tris (Latin, cicatrix). The scar or seam on the flesh after a wound has healed. Cicerone, che-che-ro-ne (Italian, cice- rone). Any person who acts as a guide ; one who points out objects of interest, and explains curiosities. This word is derived from Cicero, the great Roman orator. Cid, sid (Arabic, seid, lord). The name given to a geat hero among the Spaniards, celebrated for his exploits, Roderigo Diaz, count of Bivar. Ci-devant, seed-vawng (French, ci- devant, heretofore). Belonging to former times, or other days ; pertaining to a system of things gone by. Cimmerian, sim-meery-an. Dark and gloomy, as it is with the Cimmerii, ^ people dwelling on the western coast of Italy, where it is extremely dark. Cinerary, sinny-rary (Latin, cineres^ ashes). Relating to ashes. Cinque Ports, singk-portse (French, CLiici, five, and ports). The five sea-poi-t towns of Dover, Hastings, Sandwich, Hythe, and Romney ; to which three others w^ere afterwards added — namely, Winchelsea, Rye, and Seaford. These towns possess peculiar privileges, and are under the government of a lord-warden. Cipher, si-fur (French, chiffre). The figure (0) in numbers ; an interweaving of letters or the initials of a name ; a secret manner of writing. Circassian, ser-kash-yan. A native of Circassia ; pertaining to Circassia, a country situated on the southern declivity of Mount Caucasu.s. 16 CLA CIR Circuit, ser-Kit (Latin, ciraim, round). 'I'lio journey or prog'ress whicli the judges take twice every year, through the counties of England and Wales, to hold courts ar.d ndminister justice. Thus Englc.nd is divi- ded into six circuits— The Eome Circuit, Norfolk Circuit, Midland Circuit, Oxford Circuit, Western Circuit, and Northern Circuit. In Wales tnere are two circuits, the North and South. In Scotland there are three — the Southeni, Western, and Northern. Circular, sirku-lur. An advertising letter intended for circiiJ at ioti ; it is usually printed with a fly-leaf, in contradistinction to a hill, which has no fly-leaf. Circulating Medium. In com- merce, a term denoting the medium of exchanges, or purchases and sales, whether this medium be metallic coin, paper, or any other article. Circumambient, serkum-amby-ent (Latin, circum, round ; amhio, to encom- pass). Surrounding ; encompassing ; in- closing. Circumference, ser - kumfer - ens (Latin, circumferentia). The line that bounds a circle ; the line encompassing any figure. Circumflex, serkum-fleks (Latin, dr- cumjlexiis). An accent used to regulate the pronunciation of syllables, including or participating of the acute and gi’ave — it is marked thus (a). Circumlocution, serkum-lo-kewshun (Latin, circumlocutio). The describing a thing by many words, which might be ex- plained in a few. Circumnavigation, serkum-nawy- gayshun (Latin, circumnavigo). The act of Bailing round. Circumscribe, serkum-skribe (Latin, circum, round ; scribo, to write). To con- fine with certain limits ; to inclose ; to set bounds to. Circumspect, serkum-spckt (Latin, circum, around ; specto, to look). Prudent ; watchful ; cautious ; wary. Circumstance, serkum-stans (Latin, circum, around ; sto, to stand). Something attending on or a relative to a fact, though not essential thereto. Ci7'cicmsta7iiial evi- de 7 ice is composed of those circumstances which cither naturally or necessarily attend facts of a peculiar nature, which cannot bo demonstratively evinced, and which so agree as to render them worth.y of reliance until the contrary be proved. Circumstantial Evidence. Inlaw, that evidence which is obtained from cir- cumstances which usually attend facts of a particular nature, from which arises pre- sumption. Circumvallation, sorkum-va-Iayshun (Latin, around ; a rampart). The act of casting up fortifications around a place ; the fortification or trench thrown around a besieged town. Circumvent, serkum-vent (Latin, cir- CU771, around ; ve7iio, to come). To over- reach ; to delude. Circumvolution, sorkum-vo-lewshun (Latin, circum, around ; volo, to fly). The act of I'olling or turning round. Cirrus, sir-rus (Latin, ch'rux, a lock of hair curled). A term applied to the curL- cloud, characterised by its ciu'ling form, by the lightness of its appearance, and the many changes of its figure. Cistern, sis-tum (Latin, cista, a chest). A large receptacle for w’ater, cither above or below ground. Citadel, sitah-del (French, citadelle). A fortress situated on the most commanding ground about a cit7j. It serves to keep the inhabitants in awe, and in the event of the place being taken, becomes a retreat for the garrison. It is separated from the town by an esplanade, which is a space of level ground, clear of buildings, so that no person can approach unperceived. Citation, site-ayshun (Latin, cito, to call). A summons to appear in court ; an official call ; quotation ; mention. Civic Crown. A garland of oak- leaves, which was given to a Roman soldier who had saved the life of a citizen. Civil Engineer. One employed in civil engineering, such as the constructing of machinery for the purposes of manu- facture or locomotion ; as opposed to military engineering. Civil Law. The law of a state, city, or countiy. Civil List. The officers of civil government ; also the revenue appropriated to support civil government. Civilian, siv-ilyan (Latin, civis, a citizen). One engaged in civil pursuits, aa distinguished from military, clerical, &c. A professor of the civil law. Clairvoyance, klaro-voyans (French, clair, clear; vogauce, seeing). A faculty which some ])orsons are reputed to posses;* CLA CLI 57 of discerning things invisible to the senses when submitted to mesmeric influence. Clan, klan (Irish, cIomti). A family ; a race. A ti-ibe consisting of many families bearing the same sm-name, wlio, accord- ing to tx*aditiou, descend from a com- mon ancestor, as the Campbells of Scot- land ; the O’Connors of Ireland, &c. Clandestine, klan-destin ( Latin, clam, secret). Concealed from view ; secret ; underhand ; fraudulent. Clangour, klang-gor (Latin, clangor). A harsh, sharp sound. Clapperclaw, klappur-klaw. To scold; to rail at. Clap-trap, klap-trap. A term applied to anything said to the multitude for the purpose of extracting applause ; it takes its name from a kind of clapper used in theatres. Clarencieux, klaren-shu (French, clarandenx). An heraldic office ; the second king at arms, so called from the Duke of Clarence, son of Edward III., who first bore the office. Clarification, klarry-fekayshun (Lat. darns, clear ; facio, to make). The process of freeing any liquid from its impurities by boiling or by chemical applications. Clarion, klarry-un (French, clairon). A kind of trumpet with a narrower tube than the ordinary trumpet, anciently much used in war, on account of the shrillness of its tone. Class. A term used to denote an assem- blage of beings or things having some marked character in common. Classes are made up of orders. What the genus is to the species, or the order to the genera, the class is in respect to the orders. Every class comprehends part of the series of genera collected into several orders ; every order is an assemblage of genera, every genus an assemblage of similar species, and every species is made up of homogeneous individuals. Classical, klassy-kal (Latin, classicus). Relating to the pure and elegant literature of writers in any language, but more espe- cially to the ancient authors of Greece and Rome. Clause, klawz (Latin, clausula, the end). A sentence, or so much of it as will make sense ; an article in a contract or particu- lar stipulation ; an especial provision in- sfu-tsd in Acts of Parliament. Clavicle, klavvy-kul (Latin, clavicula, a little key). The collar-bone ; the bone situated between the shoulder-bone and breast-bone. Claymore, kiay-more (Gaelic, claid- heamhmor). A large sword formerly used by the Scottish Highlanders. Clearing. In commerce, the act of setting imported goods free by official examination, and the computation and pay- ment of customs duties. Among London bankers, a method adopted for exchanging the cheques drawn upon each other. A clearing house is appointed for this pur- pose, whither the representative of each banker repairs at a certain hour daily, taking with him all the cheques on the other bankers which have been paid into his principal’s house that day. Balances are struck from all the accounts, and the claims are transferred from one to another, until each clerk has only to settle with two. or three others, and then balances are immediately paid. Clear Starch. To stiffen with starch, and clear by clapping the articles between the hands. Clef, kief (French clef, key). In music, a character placed at the commencement of a stave, to determine the degree of ele- vation occupied by that stavs in the sys- tem, and to point out the names of all the notes contained in the line of the clef. Clemency, klemmen-se (Latin, demen- tia, mildness). Mercy; indulgence; dis- position to treat with favour and kindness. Clerk, klark (Greek, Ueros, heritage). This word was originally used to denote a man of letters, or a learned man ; and a clergyman is still designated a clerk in holy orders. It is now a common name for assistants in offices, counting-houses, &c. The name was originally given to clergy- men, to imply that they were the peculiar heritage or property of God. Cleve, ClifF, or Clive. In the name, of a place, either of these syllables occur- ring at the beginning or end of a word, denotes that such place is situated on the- side of a rock or hill, as Cleveland, Clifton, Stancliff. Client, kli-ent (Latin, cliens). A person who receives legal advice and assistance, or who intrusts the management of his affairs to a lawyer. Climacterie, kliraak-terik (Greek, klimax, a ladder, or scale). Among tha Clil CO A B8 ancient physicians and astrologers, the name giVcn to certain jieriods in human life, which were snpposetl to bo very criti- cal, and denoting some extraordinary change. According to some, every seventh year is a climateric, while others recognise only those years produced by 7 and multi- plied by the odd numbers 3, 5, 7, and 9. These years are said to bring with them some remarkable change, with respect to life, health, and fortune. ThQ grand cli- macteric is the sixty-third year. The other climaterics are the 7th, 21st, 35th, 49th, and 56th. Climax, kli-maks (Greek, Jdimax, a ladder, or scale). Gradation ; ascent. A figuio in rhetoric, by which the sentences or particulars rise gradually, forming a whole in such a manner, that the last idea in the former member becomes the first in the latter, till the climax or gradation is completed. Clinical, klinuy-kal (Greek, klinea, a bed). In medicine, a term used to signify the treatment of patients in bed, for the more exact discovery of the nature of dis- ease. A clinical lecture is a discourse de- livered by the bed-side of a patient, whose peculiar condition is made to illustrate the several points alluded to. Clique, kleek (French, clirpie). A narrow set of persons ; a party holding aloof from other persons, save those having similar views and principles, and occupying the same position as themselves ; a gang ; a clan ; a coterie. Clodhopper. A dull, heavy, clownish fellow, who is associated with clods or lumps of earth ; one who follows the plough, or labours in the fields, is com- monly so called. Cloister, kloys-tur (Saxon, clausier, a closet). A retirement; a place of seclusion from the world ; especially applied to the princiiDal part of a monastery, consisting of a square built on each of its sides, between the church, the chapter- house, and the re- fectory, where the monks meet for conver- sation. In architecture, a court which has buildings on each of its four sides; a peri- style, or piazza. Close-quarters. In a ship, strong bai riers of wood, used for defence when the vessel is boarded ; the term is used conventionally to imply persons being crowded uncomfortably together. Clove-Pink. A plant so named from tho suiiposed resemblance which the odour of tho flower bears to tho clove of conv mercc. Cloven -footed. Having tho foot oi hoof divided into two parts, as in tho ox. Satan is generally represented with a cloven foot, and a person v/ho deals knavishly and deceitfully with another is said to slioto ike cloven foot. Club Law. Government by brute force or violence. Clue, klue (Saxon, cliwe). A ball of thread ; anything which furnishes a guide or direction. In nautical language, the lower corner of a square-sail, and the aft- most corner of a stay-sail. Clenn-qarnets are a rope and pulley, made fast to the clews of the main and fore-sails. Clyster, klis-tur (Greek, Tdyzo, to wash). A medicated liquid, injected by means of a pipe into the larger intestine. Co, ko. An abbreviation of con, when prefixed to words signifying witk or together. In commerce, an abbreviation for the word company, as relating to a partnership; thus. Smith and Co. Coadjutor, ko-adjew-tur (Latin, con, with ; adjutor, an assistant). A person engaged in assisting another ; a helper in the same department or pursuit. In canon law, one who is empowered or appointed to perform the duties of another. Coagulate, ko-adjew-late (Lat. coagulo, to cause to cur^e). To thicken ; to clot ; as milk turns into curds by means of rennet. Coalesce, koah-less (Latin, coalesco, to become one in growth). To unite ; to grow together ; generally applied to the act whereby persons unite in opinion or action for a common cause. Coalition, koah-lishun (Latin, coalesco, to grow together). Union in a body or mass; union of persons, or parties, as a coalition ministry. Coast-Guard. An ofiBcer appointed to watch a certain portion of the sea-coast, with a view of preventing smuggling, or committing any other breach of the law ; and also for the purpose of reporting any strange vessel, which he may happen to dis- cern: upon emergencies, the coast-guard are also called upon to servo in the royal navy. Coat of Arms. A kind of surcoat worn by tho ancient knights over their arms. This coat was diversified by bands and fillets of several colours, c-ollod devices. COB COG 59 being composed of several pieces sewed to- gether. Hence, the representation of these in heraldry is still called a coat of arms. Cob. A pony of a thick, strong build ; also a rounded mass, as a cob-coal., a cob-nut. Cobalt, ko-bawlt. A mineral of gray colour, consisting of silver and arsenic, which latter is obtained from it in great quantities. It has never been found in a pure state, but mostly in the state of an oxide, or alloyed with other metals. Its name is derived from kohold, German for devil, from the German miners, igno- rant of its real value, considering its pre- sence unfavourable to the existence of more valuable ores in the places where it occurs. Cochineal, kotshy-neel (Spanish coclii- nilld). An insect which turns red by means of the food which it eats, and when dried affords a beautiful purple colour made use of in dyeing. Cockatrice, kokah-tris. A fabulous monster, described with legs, wings, a winding tail, and a crest or comb like that of a cock. Its generation was ascribed to a cock’s egg, hatched under a toad or ser- pent, and it was thought so venomous as to be capable of killing with its look : figura- tively, the term is applied to a person of an insidious, venomous, and treachei’ous •disposition. Cockney, kok-ne. A contemptuous term used to designate a native of London. The derivation of this word is uncertain ; it has, however, been traced to the Latin word coquina, a kitchen. Origi- nally it meant probably a cooh ; next a person fond of cookery or good living, as the citizens of London are generally reputed to be; lastly, a luxurious, idle, and effeminate citizen. In French, pays de cocagne is a sort of aldermanic Para- dise. Cockpit. In a ship of war, an apart- ment beneath the lower deck, used by the surgeon and his assistants during an action. Cockswain, kok-sn. An officer on board a ship who has the charge of the boat and the boat’s-crew; with rowing- parties, the person who manages the i*udder, and directs the movements of his companions. Cocoon, kok-koon (French, cocoii). The ball or case in which the silk-worm and other insects inA’olve themselves ; seiw- ing asa defence against enemies, and a pro- tection from the changes of temperature. Code, kode (Latin, codex, a roll, or volume, or a board on which accounts w'cre written). A digest of laws; a book of the civil law, appropriated by way of emi- nence to the collection m.ade by Justinian, the Roman Emperor, and hence called the Justinian code; hence also the code Napo- leon of France, proceeding from the changes effected in the laws by Napoleon Bonaparte when consul. Codicil, koddy-sill (Latin, codicillus, a little book). In law, a supplement to a will, made for the purpose of adding to, or altering, or explaining the contents of the will itself. Co-equal, ko-eekwal (Latin, con, with ; ceqv.s, equal). Equal with another ; having the same rank or authority. Coerce, ko-urs (Latin, con, with ; arceo, to hinder). To restrain with force; to keep back, or keep under. Coeval, ko-eeval (Latin, con, with: cevnm, an age). Of the same or equal ago with another. Co-existent, koeg-zistent (Latin, con, with ; existo, to exist). Existing at the same time with another. Coffer, kof-fur (Saxon, cafre). A chest for keeping money ; figuratively, a trea- sure. Coffer-dam, koffur-dam. A curb or close box of timber, to be sunk at the bottom of rivers or other water, and the water pumped out ; used in laying the foundation of piers and abutments in deep water. Cog, kog. The tooth of a wheel, by which that wheel acts upon another. Cogent, ko-jent (Latin, cogo, to drivB together). Having great force ; calculated to convince. Cogitate, kodjy-tate (Latin, cogito, to reflect). To think deeply and anxiously ; to revolve in the mind. Cognate, kog-nate (Latin, con, with ; nascor, to be born). Born together ; pro- ceeding from the same stock : allied by nature. Cognizance, konny-zanse (Latin, con, with ; nosco, to know). In law, an ac- knowledgment ; a badge to distinguish certain occupations, and to make known by whom the wearers arc engaged; in a general sense, notice or acknowledgment, or acquaintance with. Cognomen, kog-noracn (Latin, con, with ; nomen, a name). Surname ; family COG COL DAino ; or naruo added from any accident or qu^ity. Cognovit, kogno-vit (Latin, cognovit). In law, an acknowledgment made by the defendant in a case, that the claim of the plaintiff is a just one. Cognoscente, kogno-sen-te (Italian). A person having a thorough knowledge of anything, commonly termed a “knowing one.” The plural is cogmscenti. Co-lieir, ko-ayr (Latin, cohcci'ere, to join together). A joint heir ; one of two or more persons, among whom an inheri- tance is to be divided. Coherence, ko-herens (Latin, cohctrere, to join together). A joining together; a union of parts ; connection or dependence arising from the mutual or natural relation of parts to each other, as in the arrange- ment of a discourse. Cohort, ko-hort (Latin, cohors). Among the Romans a body of soldiers numbering about 500 or 600. In poetical language, a body of warriors. Coif, koyf (French, coiffe). A kind of cap or head-dress ; the covering for the head, worn by serjeants-at-law. Coigne, koyn (Irish, cuinne, a corner). A corner of a building, and angle of a wall. Coin, koyn (Greek, gonia, a corner. Latin, cimeiis, a wedge). A piece of metal, generally flat and circular, legally stamped and issued for circulation as money. C^ir^ rent coin, is coin legally stamped and cir- culating in trade. Foreign coin, coin valued according to the assayer’s report of its purity, regarded in this country merely as bullion Colehicum, koltshy-kum. Another name for meadow saffron ; a plant with a bulbous root and bright flowers, growing in several parts of Great Britain. Cold Blood. A term used to imply a calm and deliberate frame of mind. Thus, when a person is in a passion or angry, his i/oocZ is literally my blows or falls. Condense, kon-dens (Latin, con, to- gether; densus, close). To compress into a smaller compass ; to make thick ; to ope- rate on any body, so as to cause its consti- tuent particles to unite more closely, and render the body itself of less bulk. Condign, kon-dine (Latin, con, with; dignus, worthy). Worthy of a person. It is used of something deserved by crime, as condign punishment — deserved punish- ment. Condiment, kondy-ment (Latin, con- dimentnm, a provoker of the appetite). Seasoning ; sauce ; anything used to give relish to food, or excite the appetite. Condole, kon-dole (Latin, con, with ; doleo, to grieve). To grieve with others ; to express sorrow or concern for the dis- tress of others. Condonation, kondo-nayshun (Latin, con, with ; dono, to give). Pardoning or overlooking an offence ; forgiving an in- jury. Condottieri, kondot-te-e-re (Italian, condotiieri). In Italian history, a class of military mercenary adventurers, who, during the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, had followers at their command amounting to armies, which were hired out to sovereign princes and states. Conduce, kon-dewse (Latin, condneo, to lead to). To promote or serve towards a purpose, as exercise conduces to health. Conduit, kou-dwit (French, conduit). A canal or pipe made use of for the con- veyance of water ; a place furnished with a tap, whence people are publicly supplied with water. Cone, kono (Greek, Iconos, tending to a point). A solid figure, tapering regularly to a point from a circular base, as a sugai*- loaf, or a pine. Confabulate, kon-fabu-lato (Latin, C071, together ; fahulo, to talk). To talk familiarly together ; to discuss without ceremony. CON CON 65 Confection, kou-fekshun (Latin, con, with ; facio, to make). A sweetmeat ; a preparation of fruit, sugar, &c. Confederate, kon-fedder-at (Latin, con, together ; fceaus, a league). An accom- [)lice ; an associate in vice or crime, by agreement or contract. Conference, koufur-ens (Latin, con, with ; fero, to bear). Formal discussion ; an appointed meeting for discussing some point. Confidant, konfo-dant (Latin, con, with ; fido, to trust). One entrusted with the secrets or private affairs of another. Configuration, kon - figu - rayshun (Latin, con, with ; fif/uro, to form). Exter- nal form or shape ; the form of the various parts of anything as they are disposed to each other. Aspect of the planets. Confirmation, konfirm-ayshun (Latin, con, with ; Jirmo, to make firm). The act of establishing or confirming by undeniable proof. In the English Church, the cere- mony of laying on of hands in the admission of baptised persons to the enjoy- ment of Christian privileges. Confiscation, konfis-kayshun (Latin, con, with ; fiscus, tribute-money). The act of condemning as forfeited, and adjudging the property of the public treasury ; as smuggled goods are seized and sold for the benefit of the Crown. Confiagration, kon - flah - grayshun (Latin, con, together ; fiagro, to burn). A large fire ; an object burnt in every part ; the burning of many things together, as the portion of a city or of a forest. Conflict, kon-flikt (Latin, con, together ; fiigo, to strike against). A violent opposi- tion ; contest ; combat ; struggle. Confluence, kon-flewens (Latin, con, together; to-fiow). A Mowing together ; the junction or union of two or more streams ; a concourse or meeting together of many people. Conform, kon-form (Latin, con, with; formo, to form). To make like ; to adapt to a form ; to comply with ; to live or act according to. Confound, kon-fowud (Latin, con, to- gether ; fundo, to pour). To mingle ; to mix together ; to thx'ow into disorder ; to regard or treat one thing as another; to astonish ; tc stupefy ; to amaze. Confrere, kong-frair (French, confrere). A compeer ; a brother in a professional or social sense ;• anything worthy of being pre- seiitod with another. Confront, kon-frunt (Latin, con, with ; frons, front). To stand in full view ; to set face to face as the accuser and the accused ; to compare one thing with another. Confute, kon-fewt (Latin, co7i,together ; fundo, to pour). To destroy an argument by proving its fallacy ; to prove to bo erroneous. Conge, kong-zhay (French, conge, leave, dismiss^). The act of reverence ; bow ; curtsey ; farewell. A person who is dis- missed from an employment is said to have received his conge. Conge d’Elire, kon^ - zhaide - leer (French, congi, leave ; d'ehre, to elect). The writ and licence given by the sove- reign to the dean and chapter to choose a bishop. Congeal, kon-jeel (Latin, coa, together ; gelo, to freeze). To change from a fluid to a solid state ; to bind or fix, as by cold ; to freeze or harden into ice. Congener, konjy-nur (Latin, con, with ; genus, same kind). One of the same stock ; a thing partaking of a simi- lar nature. Congenial, kon-jeen-yal (Latin, con, with ; genus, same kind). Partaking of the same genus, disposition, or nature. Congenital, konjenny-tal (Latin, con, with ; genitus, bom). Of the same birth. In pathology, applied to any defect of con- figuration, infirmity, or disease which CKists in an individual at the time of birth. Congestion, kon-jestyun (Latin, con, with ; gero, to bear). Unnatural accu- mulation of blood or humours. Conglomerate, kon - gl ommy - rate (Latin, con, with ; glomus, a heap, or ball). To collect together into a heap or mass ; to malce a comjiact of irregular fragments. Congratulate, kon-gratu-late (Latin, con, will) ; grains, agreeable). To wish joy or happiness to another on any auspi- cious occasion, as a marriage, a birth, or an honourable appointment. Congress, kon -gross (Latin, cm, with ; gradus, a step). A meeting, as of the sovereigns or representatives of states ; the name of the national legislature of the United States of America, consisting of a house t>f representatives and a senate, the form«- being cuoaen by tho people OTory F 66 CON CON second year. The senate is composed of two members from each state ; the sena- tors are chosen for six years, by the Icg-is- hiture of the states they represent. Congruity, kon-grewity (Latin, con- gruere, to come together). Fitness, suit- ableness ; the relation of agreement between things. The Latin word griis signifies a crane, and this word means litei-ally to come together as cranes do, in a Hock. Conical, konik-al. Having the form of a cone. Conic Section. A branch of mathe- matical science, which treats of the pro- erties of certain curves which are formed y the cutting of a cone in different directions. Conirostres, kon-o-ros-tres (Latin, conus, a cone; rostrum, a beak). In natural history, a numerous family of perching birds, distinguished by their strong conical beaks, as the bullfinch, the crow, &c. Conjecture, kon-jekture (Latin, con, together; jacio, to throw). An opinion without proof, or founded only upon slight probabilities. Conjoint, kon-joint (Latin, con, with; jungo, to join). United; mutual; inti- mately associated in labour. Conjugal, konju-gal (Latin, con, to- gether ; jugo, to join). Belonging to mar- riage, or the marriage state. Conjugal rights. Restitution of. A species of matrimonial suit, which may be brought either by the husband or the wife, against the party who is guilty of the injury of subtraction, or living in a state of separation. Conjugate, konju-gate (Latin, con, with; jugo, to join). In grammar to arrange a verb according to its sevei'al moods, tenses, numbers, and persons. Conjunction, kon-junkshu» (Latin, con, with ; to join). Union; asso- ciation ; leagoic. In grammar, a part of upooch which unites words or sentences, or expresses the ■'relation of propositions or judgments to each other. Conjure, kon-juro (Latin, con, with; yiro, to swear). To call on or summon solemnly; to bind two or more by oath. Conjure, kun-jur. To practice docep- tiiiu by protended magicol art, or l\v supor- uatimal agency, which the performer pro- fesses to summon to his aid. Conning. In nautical language, Iho operation of directing the steering of a vessel. Connivance, kon-nivans (Latin, cun, with; niveo, to wink). Voluntary blind- ness to an act ; consent given by protend- ing ignorance. Connoisseur, kon-nis-su (French, connoisseur, one who knows). A critical judge of the fine arts; one who has a thorough knowledge of the mentsand de- merits of a performance. Connubial, kon-nowbe-al (Latin, con, with ; nubo, to marry). Poriaining to marriage ; matrimonial. Conquest. In English history, applies to the invasion of William, Duke of Nor- mandy, when Harold, the Saxon king, was defeated and killed, and William became king of England; this occurred in the year 1066. Consanguinity, konsa-ng-gwinny-te (Latin, cmi, together ; sanguis, blood). Ke- lationship by blood; relation by de.scout from one common progenitor. Conscientious, konshy-enshus (Latin, con, with; scio, to know.) Regulated or governed by conscience. Conscript, kon-skript( Latin, ccnscriho, to enrol). Registered ; enrolled. Conscnpl Fathers was a title given to the Roman senators subsequent to the expulsion of the kings. Conscription, kon-skripshun (Latin, conscriho, to enrol). The compulsory en- rolment of individuals for the military or naval service, taken by ballot or other- wise from the people at larg-e. Consecration, konsy-krayshun (Latin, con, with ; sacru, to make sacred). The act of setting apart any profane or com- mon thing for a sacred purpose ; a devo- tion of means, talent, time, kc., to the accomplishment of some exalted object. Consecutive, kon-seku-tiv (Latin, con, with ; secutum, following). Following in a train, or in order; uuiaternq^tod in succession. Consequential, konsy-kwenshal (Lat., con, with ; seqnor, to follow). Following as the olfcct or consccpicnco ; important ; hence applied to a person giving himself consequential airs. Conservancy, kon-servan-se (Latin, con, together ; servo, to keep). Preserving withoitt I especially applied to a coiyrl CON CON 67 held in London for tho preservation of the fishery in the river Thames. Conservative, kon-servah-tiv (Latin, con, together ; servo, to keep). In politics, a person attached to old institutiont; and bygone observances, and systematically averse to change or innovation ; opposed to Liberal and Iladical. Conservatory, kon-servah-turry. A place where anything is kept for preserva- tion ; especially a glazed structure, in which exotic plants grow in a bed of soil. Consign, kon-sino (Latin, con, with ; signum, a seal). To transfer from one’s self to another by a formal agreement ; to commit ; to entrust. A consignee is tho person to whom goods are addressed or de- livered on stipulated conditions ; a con- signor is he who transmits such goods. Consistency, kon-sisten-se (Latin, con, together ; sisto, to stand). Natural state of bodies ; degree of diversity ; sub- stance ; agreement with itself. Consistory, kon-sistor-e (Latin, con- sistorinm, a council-house, or council of Roman emperors). The place of justice in a spiritual court ; also the court itself. The court of every diocesan bishop, held in their cathedral churches, for the trial of ecclesiastical causes arising within the diocese. Console, kon-sole. In architecture, a bracket, or shoulder-piece ; or an orna- ment cut upon the key of an arch, which has a projection, and on occasion serves to support little figures, vases, busts, &c. Consolidate, kou-solly-dait (Latin, con, with ; solidus, solid). To form into a solid and compact body ; to make hard or firm ; to combine or unite two parlia- mentary bills into one. Consolidated Fund. A name ap- plied to a fund formed from certain portions of the joint revenues of Great Britain and Ireland, appropriated to the payment of the national debt, civil list, and other specified exi)cnses of both kingdoms. Consols. In commerce, funds es- tablished by the consolidation of different annuities, which have been severally formed into a capital. Consonance, konso-nans (Latin, con, together ; sofio, to sound). Concord of Bound ; agreement of one thing with another. Consonant, konso-nant (Latin, con, with ; iono, to sound). Agreeable to j ‘ eonsistent with ; also, a letter which can- not be sounded but by the aid of a vowel. Con Sordini, kon-sawr-de-uo (Italian, con sordini). In nnisic, a direction to per- form the passage to be played, on the piano, with the dampers down ; and on tho vitlin with the mute on. Commonly shortened into C. S. Consort, kon-sort (Latin, consors, a partner). A companion ; a partner in matrimony, as Albert, Prince Consort of England. In nautical language, a vestel sailing in compaii}’^ with anot.ier. Conspire, kon- spire (Latin, con, together; spiro, to breathe). To plot to- gether ; to concert a crime ; to agreo together. Con spirito, konspe-reto (Italian, con spirito). In music, a phrase denoting that the part is to bo played with spirit. Constellation, konsteh-layshun (Latin, con, together ; Stella, a star). A cluster of fixed stars ; applied in a general sense to an assemblage of splendours or e.xcel- lences. Consternation, konstur - nayshun (Latin, con, with ; stei'no, to throw down). A species of terror which overpowers one’s faculties. Constipation, konste-payshun (Latin, coyistipo, to cram close). The act of stop- ping up ; state of fulness ; costiveness, or an obstructed state of the bowels. Constituent, konstittu-ent (Latin, con, with; stituo, to fix). Forming; compos- ing; a person who appoints; in which latter sense the term constituent is applied to a voter for a member of Parliament or municipal body, in which his interests are represented by deputy. Constitution, konsto-tewshun (Latin, con, with ; stituo, to fix). The frame of body or mind ; tlie act of constituting. In politics, any form or principle of govern- ment, properly constituted ; also, a parti- cular law made by a sovereign, or other superior power. Constrain, kon-strain (Latin, con, with ; stringo, to bind). To compel ; to force to some action ; to withhold ; to pro- duce in opposition to nature. Constrict, kon-strikt (Latin, con, with ; stringo, to bind). To -contract ; to bind ; to confine in a small compass. Construct, kon-strukt (Latin, con, with ; sU'uo, to form a pile). To form and 68 CON CON put together the parts of a thing ; to de- vise or form by the mind ; to build. Construe, kon-stru (Latin, con, to- gether ; slruo, to dispose in order). To arrange words in their natural order, and point out, according to the rules of syntax, the dependence which each word in a sen- tence has with those which j)rcccdo or follow : in a general sense, to explain; to show the meaning. Consul, kon-sul (Latin, consul). A chief officer in ancient Rome, who w'as invested with supreme power ; also, an officer appointed by Government to protect the interests of its citizens in some foreign country. Consultation, konsul-tayshun (Latin, consiUo, to take counsel together). The act of private deliberation ; asking the advice and opinion of others. In law, a meeting of counsel engaged by a party to a suit, for the purpose of deliberating on the best mode of procedure in a case. In medicine, a i)rivatc deliberation held Viy the medical attendants of a patient, for the purpose of reviewing what has been done, and to determine on the future mode of action. Consummation, konsum - mayshun (Latin, con, with ; sMHio, to take). Com- pletion ; perfection ; the end of the present state of things; the fulfilment of a thing long desired. Consumption, kon-surapshun (Latin, cojisuhio, to waste awa)^. The act of con- suming or wasting away ; a state of dimi- nution. PaLuwnary Consumption is a diseased state of the lungs, causing gra- dual decay and wasting away. Contact, k on -takt (Latin, con, together ; tango, to touch). Touch ; close union ; the juncture of two or more bodies by touch, not admixture. Contagion, kon-taje-yan (Latin, con, together ; tango, to touch). Communica- tion of disease by contact, either by per- son or through the medium of the air. Contaminate, kon-tammy-nato (Lat. , coniamino). 'I'o dolilo ; to pollute by base mixture ; to taint. Contemn, kon-tem (Latin, contemno, to scorn). 'J'o despise ; to scorn ; to regard with contempt ; to disregard utterly. Contemplate, kontem- plate (Latin, con, with; tempinm, a temple). The primitive signification of this won! is to “behold the heavens from tho temple;” the original temples being open to tho sky. To dwell upon in thought ; to consider in reference to a future act. Contemporary, kon - tempo -ra- re (Latin, con, with; tempus, time). A per- son or thing bom or existing at tho same time with another; a public journal, speaking of another public journal, alludes to it as “ our contemporary.” Contempt of Court. In law, a terra applied to express the offence of disobe- dience of the ndes and orders of a court of law. Contention, kon-tenslnm (Latin, con, with ; tendo, to stretch). Strife ; debate ; contest ; violent struggle. Context, kon-text (Latin, con, to- gether ; texo, to weave). Tho series of a discourse ; tho parts which precede and follow a sentence. Contiguous, kon-tigu-us (Latin, con, together ; tango, to touch). Meeting so as to touch ; joining at the suidace ; border- ing upon. Continence, konty-nens (Latin, con, with ; ieneo, to hold). Self-command ; restraint ; forbearance from sensual indul- gence. Continent, konty-neut. In geography, a wide extent of land, nowhere entirely separated by water, as the Continent of Europe. Contingent, kon-tinjent (Latin, con- tingens, happening by chance). Happen- ing by chance ; depending upon something else ; in politics, the proportion or quota, generally, of troops furnished by each of several contracting powers, according to some agreement entered into by them. Contorniati, kontawr-ne-ati (Italian, cun tor ni). In numismatics, a name given to cei-tain bronze metals, with a fiat im- pression, and marked with peculiar fur- rows, supposed to have been struck in favour of Constantino the Great and his immediate successors. Contortion, kon -tawr- shun (Latin, con, with ; tortitm, crookedness). Wry motion ; twisting of the body ; violent twisting of any parts of tho body affected, as in convulsive diseases. Contour, kon-toor (French, contour). Outline of a figure ; that line by which any figure is defined or terminated. Contra, kon-trah. A Latin preposi- tion, used in tho composition of English words, signifying against or in opposition to. In statements of accounts, tho term CON CON 09 *^per contm” is used to express the other side. Contraband, kontrah-band (French, coiiti-abaiule). Prohibited ; illegal ; espe- cially appliea to smuggled goods. Contrabasso, kontrah-basso. The name given to the largest kind of bass violin, for the playing of the lowest, or what is termed the double bass ; also, a term for thorough bass. Contractile, kon-traktile (Latin, co?i, together ; tractiim, drawn). Tending to contract ; having the power to draw into small dimensions. Contractor, kon-traktur. One of the parties in a contract or bargain ; one who engages in operations according to specifi- cation, or in terms of a deed of contract. Contradistinguish, kontrah-dis- tingwish. To distinguish by opposite qualities. Contralto, kon-tralto (Italian, con- tralto). In music, the counter-tenor ; the part immediately below the treble. Contrarie^, kontrah-riet-o (Latin, contrarietas). Opposition ; inconsistency ; repugnance. Contravene, kontrah-veen (Latin, contra, against ; venio, to come). To oppose ; to obstruct ; to baffle. Contre-temps, kontrah-tong (French, contre, against ; temps, time). A mis- chance ; a mishap ; happening inoppor- tunely. Controller. In law, an overseer or officer, appointed to control or oversee the accounts of other officers. Controversy, kontro-ver-se (Latin, contra, against ; rerto, to turn). Debate ; dispute ; quarrel ; opposition by written argument. Contumacy, kon-tumah-se (Latin, con, with ; tumeo, to swell). Obstinacy ; stubbornness ; perverseness. In law, a v.filful contempt and disobedience to any lawful summons or order of court. Contumely, kon-tumeh-le (Latin, con, with ; tumeo, to swell). Paideness ; inso- lence ; haughty reproach ; bitterness of language. Contusion, kon-tewzhun (Latin, con, wi^i) ; tusum, bruised). The act of bruising or nr^-ating; a hurt resulting from a shock or (fiuw from a blunt body, without break- ing the skin. A contused mound is the term for such a hurt when the skin is broken. Conundrum. A riddle ; a low jest. Convalescence, konval-essens (Latin, con, with ; valeo, to be strong). Recovery of health ; especially that interval between the cessation of actual disease and the restoration to robust health. This term is sometimes erroneously used to denote a person being in health, without any rela- tion to previous illness ; but the structure of the word indicates the recovery of health, rather than the mere possession of it. Convene, kon-veen (Latin, con, to- gether ; venio, to come). To cause to assemble ; to bifing together ; to promote a meeting. Convent, kon-vent (Old French, con- venttis, an assembly). A monastery, oi- nunnery ; a community of persons devoted to religious seclusion. Conventicle, kon-venty-kul (Latin, con, with ; venio, to come). A term applied first to the little private meetings of the followers of John Wickliffe, and after- wards to the religious meetings of Non- conformists. Convention, kon-venshim (Latin, conventio, a meeting of people). The act of assembling together ; a formal meeting or gathering of persons for some deliberate purpose ; an agreement previous to a definite treaty. Conventional, kon-venshun-al (Fr., conventio nnel). Stipulated ; agreed on by contract ; arising out of custom or tacit agreement. Converge, kon-vurj (Latin, con, to- gether ; vergo, to incline). To tend to- wards one point ; opposed to diverge. Conversant, kon-versant (Latin, con, together; remtm, turned). Familiar with ; having a perfect knowledge of. Conversazione, konver-sahtze-ona (Italian). A meeting of persons for the purpose of conversation and interchange of ideas ; usually devoted to scientific and literary subjects. Converse, kon-vurs (Latin, con, with ; versum, turned). In geometry, a proposi- tion is said to be the converse of another when, after drawing a conclusion from something fir?t proposed, we proceed ta suppose what had been hrst included, and to draw from it what had been supposed. Conversion, kon-vershun (Latin, con, with ; versum, turned). The art of chang- ing from one form or state into another ; 70 CON coll »;h.'iug-e from ono religion to another, or fro!n reprobation to grace. Convertible, kon-verty-bl (Latin, con, 'vitli ; verio, to turn). Changeable from .me state or condition into another ; having so strong a resemblance that one may be converted for the other. Convex, kon-veks (Latin, cun, with; vectiun, conveyed). Rising in a circular form on the exterior surface, as the outside of a cup ; opposed to concave. Convex Lens. An optical arrange- ment, by means of which light proceed- ing from its focus is re-converged on the other side, upon v/hich a picture of the object is maile. Conveyance, kon-vayans (Latin, con, with ; veko, to carry). In law, the trans- mission of property, titles, or claims from one person to anpther ; the writing by which a conveyance of property is made. Convocation, konvo-kayshun (Latin, con, together; voco, to call). The act of calling an assembly together ; an assembly of the clergy for consultation upon eccle- siastical matters. Convoluted, konvo-lewted (Latin, con, together; volvo, to roll). Rolled together; I>ne part twisted on another. Convoy, kon-voi (Latin, con, together; veho, to carry ) . To accompany for defence ; to escort. In nautical affairs, one or more ships of war employed to attend and pro- tect merchant ships from pirates, or from a common enemy in time of war. Convulsion, kon-vulshun (Latin, con, together ; vulsum, pulled). Violent mo- tion ; tum\ilt ; an involuntary contraction of the fibres and muscles, causing a pre- ternatural distortion of the body and limbs. Cooing, kooing. The note of the dove or the pigeon. Coolie. A labourer in the Eerson is to find a rhyme. Cranium, krayne-um (Latin, cranium, the skull). The skull, or superior part of the head, which forms the great cavity containing the brain. Crank, krank. Literally, a hand. In raeclianics, a square piece projecting from a spindle, serving by its motion to raise and lower the pistons of a steam-engine ; to turn a wheel, Ac. Crapula, krapu-lah (I^tin, crapula). A surfeit; the oppressed state of the stomach, arising from excess in eating and drinking. Crass, krass (Latin, crassus). Thick; gross ; coarse ; as ai“>plicd to fluids, not easily running. Crate, krato (Latin, n-ales). A Hamper or basket, made of wicker-work or wood, used in the packing of crockeiy-warc, glass, Ac. Crater, kray-tur (Latin, crater). The mouth of a volcano ; also a brass vessel with a broad ba.se and a narrow mouth. Craven, kray-ven (Saxon, crajum). A word of obloquy, a]q)lied formerly to one who, having been overcome in combat, craved for mercy ; hence a coward, or one afraid of encountering any danger. Crawfisll, kraw-fish (French, ecrevisse). A small fresh-water fish, resembling the lobster and crab ; it is sometimes called a'ayjish. Crayon, kra-yon (French, crayon, from craie, chalk). Materials for drawing, rolled into the form of a pencil. Artificial a-ay- ons are composed of different coloured earths and other pigments, rolled iiito solid sticks, with sometenaciious substance, as milk. The term is also applied to any drawing or design done with crayons. Credence, kree-dens (Latin, credo, to believe). Credit ; belief ; assent to the truth of a person’s pretensions, and con- fidence placed in his claim. Credentials, kree-denshals (Latin, credo, to believe). That which entitles to credit ; the warrant or authority which a person has to show in support of his pre- tensions. Creditor, kred-ittur (Latin, credo, to believe). One who gives credit, or to whom a debt is owing. In book-keeping the credit side of an account is that where- in all things which are delivered are entered ; in the cash-book, it rejiresonts all monies paid away. This word is com- mercially contracted into Cr. Creek, kreek (Saxon, crecca). That part of a haven or small channel running from the sec; a prominence, or jutting, in a winding coast. Creese, krecs. A dagger used by the Malays. Cremona, kre-monah. A name given formerly to violins of a very superior kind, made in the seventeenth century, by the Amati family at Cremona, in Italy. 7G CRE ClU) Creole, kreo-olo. A native of the West Indies and Spanish America, descen- ded from hiuropean i)arcnts. Creosote, krooli-soto (Greek, Ireas, flesh; to preserve). An oily, colourless, transparent liquid, of a penetrating' odour, rosembling that of smoked m^at, and of a burning and exceedingly caustic taste. It takes its name from its antiseptic property. Crepitation, kreppy-tayshun (Latin, crepo, to crack). The crackling noise made by somo salts, during the process of calci- nation. Crescendo, kreh-shendo (Italian, cm- cendo, to increase). In music, a term for the gradual swelling of the notes so indi- cated ; and generally m.arkcd thus (•<:). Crescent, kress-sent (Latin, creacm^, growing). Increasing; growing; the in- creasing or new moon, which, when receding from the sun, shows a curved rim of light, terminating in horas or points. In hei-aldry, a bearing in form of a new moon ; used either as an honourable badge, or as a distinction between elder and younger families, being generally assigned to the second son, and his descendants. The Turkish flag contains a representation of the new moon, and is symbolical of Turkish power or empire of the crescent. This name is also given to buildings having a crescent shape. Crest, krest (Norman, crest, it rises). A term used in armoury to signify the top part of the helmet, generally ornamented. In heraldry, the uppermost part of an armoury, or th.at portion of the helmet next the mantle. The crest is deemed a greater mark of nobility than the armoury ; being borne at tournaments, to which none were admitted till they had given proof of their nobility. Crestfallen, krest-fawln. Dejected ; spiritless ; cowed. Cretaceous, kree-tayshus (Latin, creta, chalk). Chalky ; of the nature of chalk ; abounding with chalk. Cretiuism, kroe-tinizm. A peculiar endemic disease common in Switzerland anil Rome other mountainous districts. It nearly resembles rickets in its general symptoms; but its most remark.ablo cha- ructeristic is the mental imbecility which accompanies it from the first. The indi- viduals all'ccted with this disease become a species of deformed idiot, and are termed Cretins ; the word is denved from Ckrelleu, a Christian, on the sujiposition that persons thus afToctod are incapable ol sin. Crew, kru (Saxon, cruth). The whole of the persons employed on board a ship or boat; it is more iiarticularly ajiplicd to all who are under the master of the vessel. Crimp, krimp. A person formerly ein- plojmd to decoy others into the nav.al or military service ; one who decoys for any purpose of deceit. Cringe, krinj (German, Iricchcn). To contract ; to shrink; to bend the body in a fawning and servile manner. Cringle. In nautical affairs, a .shoi-t piece of rope with e.ach end spliced into the bolt-rope of a sail ; usually confining an iron ring or thimble. Crinkle, krin-kul (Danish, hrinkelen). To wind ; to bend ; to w'rinkle. Crisis, kri-sis (Greek, krisLs, from hrino, to sift, or separate). 'I’hat point in the progress of a disease which indicates death or recovei-y ; the decisive moment when any circumshance or afF.iIr is ripe for a change. Criterion, kri-teer-yun (Greek, Lrino, to sift.) A standard by w'hich the good- ness or badness of a thing may be measured or judged. Critic, krit-ik (Greek, hrino, to judge). A judge of merit in literature or art; a person who undertakes to point out the merits and defects of a performance. The judgment thus given is called a critique, or a cHticism. Crocodile’s Tears. The tears of a hyjXiorite ; pretended weeping. This phrase arises from the accounts which certain travellers have given of the habits of the crocodile, assertmg that wMle the animal is devouring its victim it is also shedding tears. Croft, krawft (Saxon, croft). A little field, adjoining to or near a dwelling-house, used either for tillage or pasture. Cromlech, krom-lek (Welsh, crom, bent; Uec, a fiat stone). A large stone resting on other stones, in the manner of a table. Such stones were usually placed in the centre of a circle of stones, which formed the Druidical temple, and had a single stone placed near them, supposed to have served a* a pedestal for some deity ; they are considered to have been the altai‘3 of jjruidical sacrifice. Crone, krone (Irish, criona). Literally, an old cw'o ; figuratively, an aged woman. CRO CUE 77 Crop out. A technical term to denote the rising up, or exposure at the surface, of a stratum or series of strata. Crosier, kro-zhur (Latin, crux, a cross). The pastoral staff of a bishop, so called from having a cross on the top. Cross-examination. In legal prac- tice, the examination of a witness who is called by one party, by the opposite party or his counsel. Cross-grained, kraws-graind. In joinery, applied to wood, whence a bough or branch has shot out, the grain of the branch pressing forward and crossing that of the trunk. Figuratively, hard to please ; peevish ; troublesome ; vexatious. Crotchet, krotsh-et (French, crochet, a hook). In music, one of the notes or characters of time equal to half a minim, and double that of a quaver ; also a mark, or character, serving to inclose a woi'd or sentence which is distinguished from the rest, thus [ ]; a suj)poit ; ,t piece of wood fitted into another to support a building. Figuratively, a whim ; a fancy ; peiwersity of mind, or inconstanc}- of ideas. Croupier, kroo-peer (French, croupier). One who sits at the foot of the table as an assistant to the chairman ; also callhd vice- chairman. Crown-glass. A superior kind of glass, differing in composition and fusi- bility from flint-glass. Crucible, kroosy-bul (Latin, crux, a cross). A chemical vessel in dispen. sable in the various operations of fusion by heat. Crucibles are commonly made of fire-clay, and so tempered and baked, as to endure extreme heat without melting. Cruciform, kroosy-fonn (Latin, cru- ciforntis). Having the form of a cross. Crude, krood (Latin, crudu», raw), riavv ; not prc[)ared or dressed ; not changed by any process or preparation. Figura- tively, immature, unfinished ; not brought to perfection ; not reduced to order in the mind. Cruise, kroo^ (Dutch, kroes). A voyage made by a ship along the coast (or in the open sea), in order to intercept such of the enemy’s ships as are near. Crusade, kroo-sado (French, croisade). A,m expedition against infidels. The term crusades was originally applied to those military expeditions in the eleventh, twelfth, and thirteenth centuries, by the Chiistian princes of the West for the purpose of wresting the Holy Land from its Moham- medan possessors. They were called cru- sades in consequence of the C7-oss having been adopted as their distinguishing ban- ner. Crustacea, krus - taysheah (Latin, crusta, a shell). A class of animals Avith an exterior shell, which is generally hard and calcareous, and is cast off periodically, as in the crab, the lobster, the shrimp, &c. Crypt, kript (Greek, krypio, a cave). The under or hidden part of a building ; also, that part beneath churches and abbeys appropriated to the monuments of deceased persons and the interment of the dead. Cryptography, krip-tograh-fe (Greek, hryptos, secret ; grapho, to write). The art of writing in a secret manner, as in cypher. Crystal, kris-tal (Greek, kryos, ice; sello, to set). A body formed in the pro- cesses of consolidation in a symmetrical figure, through the agency of chemical affinity, and the peculiar form of the particles of which it is composed; glass used in the manufacture of drinking- vessels, chandeliers, &c. Cube, kubo (Greek, kuhos). A regular solid body, consisting of six square and equal faces, with right, and therefore, equal angles, as a die, for example. Cube root is the number or quantity, which multiplied b}'^ itself and then into the pro- duct, produces the cube; thus 4 is the cube root of 64. Cud, kud. The food which ruminating animals return to the mouth from the first stomach, to be re-chewed. Cudbear, kud-bare. A neutral colour- ing matter, prepared from certain lichens, and named from Dr. Cutkhert Gordon. Cuddy, kud-de. In East India ships, a name for the cabin under the poop, in which the captain, chief officers, and passengers mess and sleep. Cue, kew. In theatrical parlance, the word spoken by an actor or the prompter, which indicates to another actor that it is his turn to speak. In a general sense, the hint or idea which one person gleans from another; also used to imply the existing state of the temper, or the pi'csont humour of any one. Cuerpo, kwer-po (Spanish, cnerpo, bodily shape). Slightly clad ; without over-gaiTueuts ; in an unprotected state. 78 CUl CUR Cui Bono, kwi bono (Latin, cui hono). An expression often used to ask— For what purpose? or, To what end? Cuirass, kwe-rass (French, cuirasse). A piece of defensive anuour made of iron plate, and covering the bod 3% from tlio nock to the girdle; a breast-plate. tv>- rassier is a cavalry soldier, protected by a cuirass Cuisine, kwe-zeen (French, cuisine). The kitchen, or cooking department ; the living or fare of an establishment. Cul-de-Sac, koold-saak (French, cul- de-sac). An alley blocked up at one end ; figuratively, used to imply a i)Osition load- ing to nothing else. Culinary, kewle-na-ro (Latin, culina, a kitchen). Pertaining to the art of cook- ery ; belonging to the kitchen. Culminate, kulmy-nait (Latin, culmen, the top or height). In astronomy, to be in the highest point of altitude as a planet ; to grow upward, instead of laterally. Culpable, kulpah-bul (Latin, blameable). Deserving blame ; censurable; criminal; guilty. Cultrirostres, kultre-rostris (Latiu, culler , a knife ; rostrum, a beak). A family of wading birds, distinguished by their long, thick, and strong bills, which are generally trenchant and pointed, as m the herons and cranes. Culver House, kul-vur hows (Saxon, cidfra). A dove-cote. Calverin, kulvur-in (French cou- hvrine) A loug slender piece of ordnance, intended to carry , a ball of about sixteen pounds to a long distance. Cumulus, kewmew-lus (Latin, cumulus, a heap) The stacken-cloud ; a primary form of clouds, known by its irregular hemispherical or heaped superstructure, and usually flattened base. It is formed by the gathering together of detached clouds, which then appear stacked into one large and elevated mass. Cuneal, kew-neal (Latin, cuueu.<;, a wedge). l»ertaining to a wedge; having the form of a wedgo. Cuniform, kow-noyform (Latin, cuiieus, a wedge). Having the form or shape of a wc.lgcn CiuUform ?d//e7'.s are those in whicii the inscrii.tions on the old Persia, ji and Pabyloiiiau monuments are traced, and are so termed from their wedge-hko appearance. Cupel, kew-pcl (I.atin, rupe/la, a littl* cup). A shallow vc.ssol, sh.apod like a cup, used for refining metals. It is made of phosphate of lime, wliich sulfors the baser metals to pass through it, when cxposcfl to a melting heat, and retains the i>urcr metal. The process of fining gold or silver by this means is termed cupollation. Cupidity, k-cw-pidit-e (Latin, cupdio, eager desire). An eager desire to pos.scss something ; an inordinate or unlawful craving for wealth or jiowcr. Cupola, kew-polah (Italian, cupula). A dome ; an arched roof ; having the form of a cxip inverted. Curate, kew-rate (Latin, cjira, care). An officiating minister of the Chuixh of England, who performs the duty of the m - cumbent, rector, or vicar, and receives a salary for his services. Cure, kew-ray (French, cure). In France, the incumbent; the parson; the parish priest. Curioso, kewry-oso (Italian, cu'"ooso). A pierson who delights in seeing new Mid rare objects. Curfew, kur-few (French, couvrt, cover ; feu, fire). The ringing of a bell, ^ a signal to the inhabitants that all the lights are to be extinguished and the fires put out. The most celebrated curfew in 'Eno-land was that established by William the°Conqueror, who appointed that under severe penalties, at the ringing of a bell at eight o’elock in the evening, every one should put out his light and go to bed. A bell runf’- at the present time, about that hour in°the evening, is still called the curfew-hell. Curmudgeon, kui*-mudj-un. A corrupt pronunciation and spelling of the French phrase, ccsiir mecliant, bad heart; applied to a niggardly, mean, churlish, avaricious person. Currency, kurren-se (Latin, cum-o, to run) In monetary affairs, circulation, passim^ from hand to hand, and acknow- ledged” as local, whether applied to paper money or metal coin. Current, kur-rent (Latin, curro, to run). A llow'ing; applied to fluids, as a stream or flux of w^ater moving, some- times rapidly in any direction, and com- mon in various pads of the ocean. I n© selling of the current is that part of he compass to which the water runs, and 'ffie CUli CZA 79 driji of the current is iho rate it runs per hour. Currently, kurrent-le (Latin, curro, to run). In a constant motion ; without opposition ; a report circulating from mouth to mouth. Curricle, kurry-kul (Latin, curriculum, a place to run in). An open chaise with two wheels, dra\Mi by two horses abreast. Curriculum, kur-riku-lum. A term used to denote the complete course of studies of a university, school, &c. Cursitor Baron. An officer of the Court of Exchequer, who attends at Westminster to open the court, prior to the commencement of each of the four terras, and on the seal-day, after each term, to close the court. Cursory, kur-sorre (Latin, cursum, hasty). Quick; hasty; a partial view; a careless remark. Curtail, kur-tail (Latin, curtus, short). To cut short; to deprive; to abridge. Curtesey, kur-te-se (Latin, curia, a court). By the law of England, the right of a husband who has married a woman seised of an estate or an inheritance, in fee simple or fee tail, and has by her issue born alive, which wjis capable of inheriting her estate, to hold the lands, &c., for life, as tenant after her death. A title by curtesey is that allowed by custom, but to which no legal right can be maintained, such as designating the sons of peers “Lords.” Curtesey also means an obeisance, generally as applied to females. Curule, ku-rool (Latin, curulis, belong- ing to a chariot). Pertaining to a chariot; senatorial. The cur^de chair was the seat of a Roman magistrate. Curvet, kur-vet (Italian, corvetler). Leap of a horse, so as to raise all his legs at once. Curvilinear, kur-re-lin-ear (Latin, curvus, a curve; liiiea, aline). Consisting of curved lines ; relating to curves. Cusp, kusp (Latin, cuspis, a pointed end). In mathematics, a term used where two branches of the .same or different curves appear to end in a point. Custos Rotulorum, kus-tos rotu- lomm. The chief civil officer of the county, to who.so custody are committed the records and rolls of the sessions, lie is always a justice of the peace and quorum in the county for v,hich he is appointed. Cutaneous, kew-fayneous (Latin, cutis, the skin). Relating to the skin. Cuticle, kew-tik-kl (Latin, cutis, the skin). The outer skin, or scarf skin ; tho cuter bark of plants. Cutter. A small vessel with a single mast, and a straight running bowsprit, which can be run on the deck occasionally. A revenue cutter is an anned vessel of this description, employed for the prevention of smuggling. Cutwater. The sharp part of the head of a vessel, under the beak or figure. Cycle, si-kul (Greek, kyklos, a circle). In chronology, a certain period or series of years, in which the calculation proceeds from the first to the last, and then returns again to the first, and so circulates per- petually. The cycle of the moon is a period of 19 years, which being completed, the new and full moons return to the same days of the month. The cycle of the sun is a period of 28 years, which being elapsed, the dominical or Sunday letters return to their former place, and proceed in the same order as before. Cyclopedia, syklo-peedeah (Greek, hyklos, a circle ; paideia, insti-uction). A circle of knowledge ; a work containing an account of the principal subjects in one or all departments of learning, art, or science ; called also. Encyclopedia. Cylinder, sillin-dur (Greek, kylindros, a roller). A solid, having two equal ends parallel to each other, and every piano iection parallel to the ends, also a circle, and equal to them. Cynic, sin-nik (Greek, kyon, dog). Having the qualities of a surly day ; brutal ; snarling; satirical; captious. The cynics of old prided themselves upon their con- tempt for everything which others valued, except virtue. Cynosure, sin-ozhure (Greek, ky- nosoura, dog’s tail). In astronomy, a con- stellation near the north pole, consisting oi seven stars, four of which are disposed like tho wheels of a chariot, and three lengthwise, representing tho beam. The ancient Phoenicians used to be guided in their voyages by this constellation, from whicli circum.stancc it has been used figuratively, as a point of attraction j thus a person who is singled out in an assembly as the general ol.'jcct of observation, is said to be the “cynosure of all eyes.” Czar, zar. The title of the Emperor of Russia. Oariiia is the title of tha 80 DAB DAS Empress ; Czaroioilz is the title of the eldest son of the Czar. Dabble, dab-bul (Dutch, clahbeleH). To smear ; to dip slightly ; to spatter ; also to do anything in a slight, superficial mannei , to tamper with, as to dabble the funds. Da Capo, dah kah-po (Italian, da capo, from the head). In music, a phrase signi- fying that the first part of the tune is to be played over again. Dactyl, dak-til {Greek, dakO/los, a fiuter). In poetical composition, a foot consisting of three syllables, the first long, thepeculiar construction of the rays enabling the fish to rise above the water and fiy for a short distance. Daddy {da-da). A child’s way of ex- Dressing fother ; and which arises froni the Srst arUculations being dental and labial , dental, in tad, dad, and labial in papa, mauvma. made tL-ou;.!, f.io me.limn of a camera- obscura on plates of silvered copper. T)ais day-is (French, dais). A name formerly given to the chief seat at the pnn- S table in a baronial ball, usually coyered S hangings of tapestry or carpet ; the word is now used to denote a raised floor in 0 diuino- room, a canopied seat, usually rc.served for the most distinguished guests. Dale (Gothic, dale^. A low-lying or hollow place between lulls. Dullv dal-lo (Saxon, do/e, dull), io in wanton or idle amusements, to tulle, to fondle. , nam (Dutch, dam, a pond). A water- llgSt mole, bank, or weir, rirar or stream, for the purpose of raiKng the level of the water by confining it, and which is employed for various purposes, as for irrigation, impelling water-wheels, &c. Damages, dammy-jez (T.atin, damnum, loss). In law, the amount assessed upon a defendant as a remuneration to the plain- tiff for the injury he has sustained. Damascus Blades. Swords or soy- mitars, presenting upon their surface a variegated appearance of watenng, as white, silvery, or black veins, in fine lines or fillets, fibrous, crossed, interlaced, or parallel. They are brought from the bast, and are fabricated chiefly at Damascus, whence their name. Damper. A valve, or sliding-plate, in a furnace, which serves to reflate the draught of air in the flue, according as it is raised, depressed, or drawn out ^ portion of a piano-forte, covered wit, h soft leather, by which the vibration of a string is modified, and the sound deadened. Dandrif (Saxon, tan, a spreading eruption; *»/, filthy). ^ disease which betrays itself iu thin bran-like scales on the skin. Danegelt, dane-gelt (Saxon, ^ne D^ie • adt, a debt). A tax or tribute on every hfde of land, imposed by the Danes on the Saxons. It tilted a yearly tax, until the reign of He y the Second. , Dangle, dang-gl (Danish, _ dingier). To lia?g loosely, so as to be put in motion by a breath. Figuratively, to hang as a dependent upon a person. Danish, day-nish. Kelating to the Danes, or to Denmark. Dank (Teutonic, tunken). Moist ; humid ; damp. "naTvner dap-pur (Dutch, dapper). SiSluF stature f neat, spruce, and active. ■natmle. dap-pul (Teutonic, dapffer,ap- pirc?v?red with spots). Marked with various colours ; streaked. A dapiple gi ty horse is a light grey shaded ^y a deeper tint; a dapple bay, a light bay spotted with darker hues. Darsis, dar-sis (Greek, daxro, to exco- riate) In anatomy, the process of re- moving the skin from the subjacent texture, also the morbid abrasion of the skin, m the living body. Dash. In music, a mark, thus (’ ), im- pMng that the notes over which it is plac^ Le to^be played in a short, distinct manner. DAS DEA il lb litcraiy composition, a straight mark, thus ( — ), used to express a sudden stop, or change of the subject. Dash Board. A board placed on the fore part of a vehicle, to prevent the mud throum from the horse’s heels reaching the carriage. Dastard, das-tard (Saxon, adastrlgan). A coward ; a faint-hearted person ; one who meanly shrinks from danger. Data, day-ta (Latin, plural of daturii, given). A mathematical form for such things or quantities as are given or known, in order thereby to find other things that are unknown ; used, in a general sense, to express things given for finding results. Date (Latin, datum, given). The day or time of an event or transaction ; the period at which a letter is written. Dative Case (Latin, dativus, from do, to give). In Latin grammar, the giving case of nouns, known by the signs to and for, and serving to denote the re- moter object to which the acticm of the subject is directed ; for which, either ad- vantageously or disadvantageously, somo- thing is done. Dauk, dawk. The term used in the East Indies for the system of forwarding letters and passengers by bearers stationed at certain distances. Dauphin, daw-fin. A title formerly given to the eldest son of the King of France. The name is derived from the cir- cumstance that, in 1349, Humbert the Se- cond, the last of the princes of Dauphiny, having no issue, transferred his dominions to the crown of France, upon condition that the king’s eldest son should bo styled Jjavphin. Davit, day-vit. A piece of iron or timber, with sheaves or blocks at the outer ends, projecting over a vessel’s sides or stem to hoist boats up to ; a fish-davit is a spar with a roller or sheave at the end, used for fishing the anchor. Dawn (Saxon, dayian). The com- mencement of the day, when twilight appears; figuratively, a clearing up; en- lightenment from obscurity, as when reason dawns, or a glimmer of light is afforded to the understanding. Day (Latin, dies). In common lan- ^ago, that portion of time in any place during which the sun remains above the horizon. The astronomical day is reckoned from noon to noon, continuously throTigh the twenty-four hours. The civil day con> mences at midnight. The solar day is that interval between the departure and return of a meridian to the sun. As applied to the moon, the interval is termed a lunar day ; and in relation to a star, a sidereal day. The na^itical day commences at noon, and ends at noon the day following. Day Dream. A dream or phantasm to the waking senses. Day-rule. In law, an order of eourt permitting a prisoner for debt to go fur one day beyond the bounds of the prison. Day-spring. The first appearance of light in the morning; the commencement of the day. Day-star. The morning star; figura- tively, the light of the Gospel, which is spread by Christ, the day-star of righteous- ness. Days of Grace. In law, three days granted by the coiu*t beyond the time named in the writ, during which the per- son summoned may appear and answer. In commercial affairs, a customary number of days for the payment of a bill of ex- change after the same becomes due, as also for the payment of insurance premiums. De. A prefix denoting from, or separa- tion; hence employed to impart a negative sense to words, as de-cay, a falling away from ; (/e-capitation, the severing of the head from the body. Deacon, de-kun (Greek, dia, through ; l-oneo, to serve). One of the orders of the Christian Church, to which originally the administration of charity was committed. In the Church of England, the lowest of the three orders of clergy (bishops, priests, deacoiis). A deacon is empowered to read the Scriptures and homilies publicly, also to catechise, and to preach when licensed to do so by the bishop ; but he may not con- secrate the elements at the administration of the Lord’s Supper, nor pronounce the blessing. The deacon and deaconess of Congregational Churches perform some- what the same duties as churchwardens c£ the Established Church. Dead - beat. An escapement in a watch, which lessens the effect of the wheel on the pendulum. The word is commonly used to express a state of extreme ex- haustion or fatigue, or the being utterly defeated. Dead Colouring. Tim i'.r-i layer o# colours in a picture; a ehado of g»oy, a 82 DEC Dead Languages. Languages witicli arc no longer si)oken or in connnon use Ly a people, luit are known through v/ritings, as the Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. Dead Letter. A letter which has been sent through the I’ost-office, but, failing to reach the person to whom it is addressed, has been returned. Thus, figu- ratively, a law or document which fails in its purpose is called a dead lettei*. Dead Lift. Lifting at disadvantage; a hopeless exigency. Dead Lights. In a ship, strong wooden shutters, adapted to the cabin- windows in which they arc fixed, to pre- vent the water entering a ship in a storm. Dead Reckoning. In navigation, the dilfercnce between the place of a ship as given by the log, and by astronomical observations, owing to the currents, &c. Dead Water. The eddy or little whirl2)Ool that closes behind a ship as she passes onward. Dead Weight. A heavy burden; weight of a slaughtered animal, or any other object which has no vitality. Dean (Latin, decaiins, the leader of a file, anciently ten deep). A dignitary of the Church of England, next to a bishop, and head of the chapter in a cathedral or council. Dean and Ckapier are the bishop’s council, to assist him with their advice in ecclesiastical affairs, and in the temporal concerns of his see. Dearth, dui-th (Saxon, dyre, dear). Great scarcity ; want ; famine ; barrenness ; the term is also used figuratively, as a dearth of aens, a dearth of intelligence. Death Warrant. The order for exe- cution of one sentenced to death ; in the ju-csent day, it ordinarily consists in the judge writing against the name of the culprit, on the calendar, stbs. per coll., an abbreviated liatin form for ‘^To be hanged by tho nock.” Debar, do-bar (Latin, de, from. French, larrc, to bar). To exclude; to preclude; to shut out ; to hinder or restrain a person from the enjoyment of a thing. Debark, sco Disembark. Debase, do-baco (Latin, de, down; hasn, tho lowest part). To reduce from a higher to a lower value; to adulterate anything by the addition of something loss valuable; to si)oil and render less perfect by mean and unworthy additions ^ Debate, do-bait (Latin, dc, down. French, hattre, to strike). A personal dis- pute; a {)tiblic di.scussion; a contest con- cerning tho truth and intention of any proposition. Debauchee, dob-aw-sheo (French, de- haucher). A person wholly given to sen- sual enjoyments and riotous living. Debenture, do-benchur (Latin, dehen, to ow'e). A writing which is evidence of a debt; certificate of drawback. In law, a writ or note drawn upon Government. Debility, de-billit-o (Latin, dehilvt, weak). Wea,kncss; feebleness; infirmity of mind or body. Debit, deb-it (Latin, ddheo, to owe). A term u.sed to oxi)re 8 S the debtor side of tho aceount, in aecount books, usually placed at tho left hand. Debonair, debon-air (French, dehnn- naire). Of good or polite appearance ; easy ; compliant; airy; well-bred. Debouch, de-boosh (French, dchnu- cher). To issue or march out of a wood or narrow pass, in order to meet with or retire from an enemy. In a general sense, the junetion of by-ways witlx main thorough- fares or outlets. Debris, day-breo (French, dehns). Ruins or rubbish ; the heap of fragments and broken articles occasioned by the fall of a house, a railway concussion, or similar accident. Especially applied to the frag- ments of rocks; and by the French, to the wTeck or remnants of a routed army. Debut, day-boo (French, dehut). The first appearance of any person before the public, as an actor, orator, kc. A male person so appearing is called a debutant, a female ddhntanie. Decade, dek-ad (Greek, deka, ten). A number amounting to or consisting of ten. Decadence, dc-ka3'dcns (Latin, de, down; cado, to fall). A fall from the standard of excellence. In ancient ai*t thi.s term is applied to the works of tho ages which succeeded the fall of Romo. In modern art it expresses that which succeeded the Renaiemnce, and began to assume the rococo of Louis tho Fifteenth. Decagon, dek-a-gou (Greek, dela, ten ; gonia, an angle). In g-cometry, a plane figure, having ten sides and ten angles. Decalogue, dokah-log (Greek, ileka, ton ; logos, a discourse). The ten com- mandments given by God to Moses on DEC DEC 83 Mount Sinai, originally engraved on two tables of stone. Decameron, de -kammy-ron (Greek, deka, ten ; meros, part). A book contain- ing the actions or conversations of ten days, as the Decamei'on of Boccaccio, which consists of a hundred tales related in ten days. Decamp, de-kamp (Latin, de, from ; campus, a field). To shift a camp ; to re- move from a place ; in a general sense, used to denote absconding in debt or disgrace. Decapitation, de - kappy - tayshun (Latin, de, from ; caput, the head). The act of beheading. Decapodal, de-kappo-dal (Greek, deka, ten; pous, afoot). Having ten feet; be- longing to an order of the Crustacea called decapoda, as having ten limbs. Decasyllabic, dekah-sil-labik (Greek, deka, ten, and sMahle'). Consisting of ten syllablv.s, as in English heroic verse. Decease, de-sees (Latin, de, from ; cessum, departing). Departure from life; death. December, de-sembur (Latin). The last month of the year; so called from decern, ten, being the tenth month of the year, which formerly began with March. Decemvir, de-semver (Latin, decern, ten ; vir, a man). In Roman history, one of the ten magistrates or functionaries appointed for various offices in ancient Rome ; collectively called the Decemviri. Decennary, de-sennary (Latin, decern, ten; annus, a year). A period of ten years. In law, a tithing, consisting of ten freeholders and their families. Deciduous, de-siddu-us (Latin, de, from; cado, to fall). Falling off. In botany, leaves which are shed annually are said to be deciduous, as also plants which shed their loaves ; it is the opposite of ever- green. In zoology, the term is applied to parts which have but a temporary existence, and are shed during the life-time of the animal, as certain kinds of hair, horns, and teetli. Decimal, dessy-mal (Latin, decern, ten). Numbered % ten; multiplied by ten. Decimal arithmetic, that part of the science of numerical calculation which treats of decimal fractions. Decimal fractions, such fractions as have ten, or some power of ten, for a denominator. Decipher, de-sy f ur (French, dechiffrer). To explain anything written in ciphers. In a general sense, to unravel, to ex- plain. Deck, dek (S.axon, decan, to cover). Tho floor of a ship, by wffich the sides are held together. Small vessels have only one deck; large vessels, two or more. In merchant ships, the quarter-deck is the aftermost deck, which is raised higher than the upper d^k, to give room to the cabins; if tho vessel be flush- decked, it is the aftermost part of the upper-deck ; if she have a poop, the upper-deck is con- tinued, as in the latter case, aft to the stern, and the deck which covers in tho poop is called either the poop-deck or (garter-deck. The forecastle-de^ is tho foremost part of the upper-deck ; if there be a deck above this, it is called the top gallant forecastle-deck. That part of tho upper-deck which lies between the fore- castle and the poop is termed the main- deck. In a first-rate ship of war, tho decks below the main or upper-deck are successively called the middle-deck, gun- deck, and orlop-deck. The quarter-declc, which is distinct from the poop-deck, ex- tends from the poop to the mainmast ; the main-deck from the mainmast to the fore- mast ; and the forecastle-deck fi'om the foremast to the bow. Declamation, deklah-mayshun (Latin, de, from ; clamo, to cry out). A discom*se addressed to the passions ; an harangue ; a set speech delivered with rhetorical earnestness. Declaration, deklar-ayshun (Latin, de; claro, to make clear). In law, that part of the process or pleadings in which a statement is made of the plaintiff's com- plaint. Declension, de-klenshun (Latin, de, down ; clino, to bend). Act of bending or falling away ; tendency from a greater to a less degree of perfection. In grammar, the variation or change of the last syllable of a noun, whilst it continues to signify tlio same thing. Declination, deklee-nayshun (Latin, de, from; clino, to bend, or lean). In astronomy, the declination of a star, or any point in the heavens, is the shortest dis- tance from the equator, corresponding with latitude on a terrestrial globe. In navi- gation, the declination of ttie needle, or com- pass, is its variation from the true meridian of any place to the east or west. In dial- ing, the declination of a wall, or plane, is an arc of the horizon contained between the plape apd the prime vertical circle, if 81 DEC DEF reckoned from east or west, or between the meridian and the piano, if reckoned from the north or south. Declinatory Plea. In law, a plea before trial or conviction, intended to show that the party is not liable to the penalty of the law, or is specially exempted from the jurisdiction of the court. Decoction, de-kokshun (Latin, de- cocfug, boiled). The act of boiling any- thing to extract its virtues ; in a secondary sense, the strained liquor of a plant or other ingredient boiled in water. Decollation, dekko-lay shun (Latin, d«, from off ; collum, the neck). The act of beheading. Decomposition, de - kompo - zishun (Latin, de, from ; con, together ; positio, place). A separation of parts ; the resolu- tion of a body into its component parts, either spontaneously or by chemical agency. Decorous, dekkur-us (Latin, decus, dignity). Becoming; suitable; decent; agreeable to the character, dignity, or perfection of a person or thing. Decoy, de-koy (Dutch, hooi^. To lure inta a snare ; to entrap ; to mislead. Decoy-duck, is a duck trained to allure others into a place where they may be caught. Decree, de-kroe (Latin, decretum). An edict; a law; a determination; an estab- lished rule; an ordinance enacted by any council for the government of others. In law, the judgment of a court of equity on any. bill preferred, and which may be inter- locutory or final Decrement, dekre-ment (Latin, de, down; cresco, to grow). Decrease; the state of growing less or diminishing ; the rmantity lost by decreasing. In heraldry, the wane of the moon from the full to the now. Decrement equal of life, is a term in the doctrine of annuities, denoting that out of a certain number of lives there should be an equal decrease within a given number of years. Decrepit, do-kropit (Latin, de, down ; ei-epitux, broken). Wasted and worn by age or infirmity; broken down by reason of old ago ; in the last stage of decay. Decretal, do-krootal (Latin, decretum, a decroo). I’ortaiuing to a decree; con- taining a decree. A decretal epistle is a letter from the Pope, determining some p ''\ nt Of question in ecclesiastical law. Decry, do-kry (Latin, de, down. French, crier, to cry). To censure ; to clamour against ; to cry down ; to en- deiivour to lessen the popular esteem for a person or thing. Decus et tutamen (Latin). Honour and defence ; safeguard, or protection. Dedalian, do - day - leean (Latiq Daedalus, builder of the Cretan labyrinth) Various; intricate; variegated. In botany, applied to leaves of a delicate texture, with margins marked by various intricate windings. Dedolation, deedo-layshun (Latin, de~ doh, to hew, or cut smooth). Literally, bowing or chipping. In surgery, the action whereby a cutting instrument, applied ob- liquely to any part of the body, inflicts an obli(iue wound with loss of substance. Deduce, de-dewse (Latin, de, from ; dvico, to lead). To draw as an inference ; to describe in a connected series, so that one thing shall introduce another. Deemsters, deom-sturs (Saxon, dema, a judge). A name given to certain judges in the Isle of Man who decide cases with- out any process or writing, and make no charge for so doing to the parties con- cerned. Deep-waisted, deep-wa.ste-ed. Ap- plied to a ship, as when the quarter-deck and forecastle are raiseE1^ amenable to punishment, or that such words should seriously have affectel him in his business relations or professional pursuits. Default, de-fa wit (Latin, de, from ; fallo, to fail). Omission; failure; defect. In law, a non-appearance in a court on a day assigned; in which case, should tho absentee be the defendant, and jvidgment be given against him, it is called jiuiyiMui default. Defeasible, do-feozah-bl (Latin, de, from ; facia, to do). That which may be annulled, set aside, or made void. Defection, de-fekshun (Latin, deficio, to fail). Failure; apostasy; rebellion; re- volt; the act of abandoning a person or cause to which one has been previously attached or pledged. Defendant, de-fendant (Latin, defendo, to defend). In a general sense, one who holds out against an aggressor. In law, tho person accused or summoned into court, and who defends, denies, or opposes tho demand or charge, and asserts his own right. Defender of the Faith. A title conferred upon Henry the Eighth of Eng- land, by Pope Leo the Tenth, for writing against the reformer Martin Luther, in be- half of the Church of Rome. This title is still retained by the Sovereigns of England. Deference, defer-ens (Latin, differo, to put off). Regard or respect paid to rank, age, or superior talents. Deficit, def-e-sit (Latin, de, from ; facia, to do). Want; deficiency; a balance on the wrong side. Definite, deffy-nit (Latin, de, from; finis, the end). Certain ; exact ; preci.se ; something having a determined signifi- cation. Deflection, de-flekshun (Latin, de, from ; fiecto, to bend). A deviation, or turning aside from a proper course, point, or direction. In mathematics, a bending off ; a term applied to the distance by which one curve dopai^ from another, or from a straight line. Defoliation, de-fo-le-ayshun (Latin, de, from ; foliatio, foliage). The fall of the leaf, or shedding of leaves ; technically applied to the autumnal season, when the leaves of plants are shed. Deftly, deft-le (Saxon, doeft). In a skilful manner ; with neatness and dex- terity. DEI Defunct, de-funkt (Latin, defungoi', tc finish). Dead; deceased; the course of life finished. This term is applied equally to things as to persons, as a defunct com- pany or association ; that is to say, one that exists no more. Degeneracy, de-jener-a-se (Latin, de, from ; genus, family). A decline in ex- cellence; a loss of strength, virtue, or value of some kind , a coxu-se of conduct unworthy of one’s ancestors ; dopartui«= from a moral course to an immoral one. Deglutition, deglu-tishun (Latin, de, down; gliilio, to swallow). Tho act of swallowing. Degradation, deggrah-dayshun (Latin, de, down; gradiis, a step). The act of debasing or depriving of dignity; dismis- sion from office ; removal into a lower rank. Degree, de-gree (Latin, de, from ; gra- dus, a step). Quality ; rank ; station ; step ; order ; measure. The comparative state and condition of things. In geome- try, the 360th part of the circumference of a circle ; 60 geographical miles. In genealogy, a certain distance or remove in the line of descent, determining the nearness of blood, as a relation in tho second or third dearee. In colleges, de- grees are conferred on learned men and others, as tokens of respect, and marks of distinction. Dehiscence, de-his-sens (Latin, dehis~ cens). Opening wide; gaping. In botany, the opening of capsules. Deify, de-e-fi (Latin, Deus, God). To make a god of ; to worship as a god. Figu- ratively, to extol too highly ; to pay homage to a person exceeding that which a mortal should, receive. Dei Gratia, ce-i-gray-shea (Latin, Dei gratia). By the grace of God. Deign, dane (Latin, dignus, worthy). To condescend ; to vouchsafe ; to grant a favour ; to permit. Deipnosophist, dipe-nos-so-fist. A philosopher of the sect tamed for conver- sation at meals. Deism, de-izm (Latin, Deus, God). Belief in the existence of a God, couplei with a disbelief of the sacred character