# dictionary

word: Debouche
definition:
Debouche

Dé`bou`ché"
(?)
n.
[F.]
A place for exit; an outlet; hence, a market for goods.

The débouchés were ordered widened to afford easy egress.
The Century.


word: Debrief
definition:
Debrief

De*brief"
(?)
v.
to interrogate (a person who has recently experienced an event), to obtain information about that experience; -- used especially of military pilots or diplomatic agents who have just returned from a mission.


word: Debridement
definition:
Debridement

De*bride"ment
(?)
n.
the surgical excision of dead, contaminated, or damaged tissue, and foreign matter, especially from a wound.


word: Debris
definition:
Debris

Dé`bris"
(?)
n.
[F., fr. pref. dé- (L. dis) + briser to break, shatter; perh. of Celtic origin.]
1.
(Geol.)
Broken and detached fragments, taken collectively; especially, fragments detached from a rock or mountain, and piled up at the base.

2.
Rubbish, especially such as results from the destruction of anything; remains; ruins.


word: Debruised
definition:
Debruised

De*bruised"
(?)
a.
[Cf. OF. debruisier to shatter, break.  Cf. Bruise.]
(Her.)
Surmounted by an ordinary; as, a lion is debruised when a bend or other ordinary is placed over it, as in the cut.

The lion of England and the lilies of France without the baton sinister, under which, according to the laws of heraldry, they where debruised in token of his illegitimate birth.
Macaulay.


word: Debt
definition:
Debt

Debt
(?)
n.
[OE. dette, F. dette, LL. debita, fr. L. debitus owed, p. p. of debere to owe, prop., to have on loan; de- + habere to have. See Habit, and cf. Debit, Due.]
1.
That which is due from one person to another, whether money, goods, or services; that which one person is bound to pay to another, or to perform for his benefit; thing owed; obligation; liability.

Your son, my lord, has paid a soldier's debt.
Shak.

When you run in debt, you give to another power over your liberty.
Franklin.

2.
A duty neglected or violated; a fault; a sin; a trespass.
debts
Matt. vi. 12.

3.
(Law)
An action at law to recover a certain specified sum of money alleged to be due.
Burrill.

Bond debt, Book debt, etc. See under Bond, Book, etc. -- Debt of nature, death.


word: Debtee
definition:
Debtee

Debt*ee"
(?)
n.
(Law)
One to whom a debt is due; creditor; -- correlative to debtor.
Blackstone.


word: Debtor
definition:
Debtor

Debt"or
(?)
n.
[OE. dettur, dettour, OF. detor, detur, detour, F. débiteur, fr. L. debitor, fr. debere to owe. See Debt.]
One who owes a debt; one who is indebted; -- correlative to creditor.

[I 'll] bring your latter hazard back again,
And thankfully rest debtor for the first.
Shak.

In Athens an insolvent debtor became slave to his creditor.
Mitford.

Debtors for our lives to you.
Tennyson.


word: Debuscope
definition:
Debuscope

De"bu*scope
(?)
n.
[From the inventor, Debus, a French optician + -scope.]
(Opt.)
A modification of the kaleidoscope; -- used to reflect images so as to form beautiful designs.


word: Debut
definition:
Debut

Dé`but"
(?)
n.
[F. début, prop., the first cast or throw at play, fr. but aim, mark. See Butt an end.]
A beginning or first attempt; hence, a first appearance before the public, as of an actor or public speaker.


word: Debutante
definition:
Debutante

Debutant

&VerbarDé`bu`tant" (?), n.; fem. Dé`bu`tante" (_;)
[F., p. pr. of débuter to have the first throw, to make one's début. See Début.]
A person who makes his (or her) first appearance before the public.


word: Debutante₂
definition:
Debutante

Dé`bu`tante"
(?)
fem. n.
A young woman making her first appearance in society, especially one who is one of the honorees at a debutante cotillion.  See cotillion{4}.


word: Deca-
definition:
Deca-

Dec"a-
(?)
pref.
[Cf. Ten.]
A prefix, from Gr. de`ka, signifying ten;
specifically:
(Metric System)
a prefix signifying the weight or measure that is ten times the principal unit.


word: Decacerata
definition:
Decacerata

De*cac`e*ra"ta
(?)
n. pl.
[NL., fr. Gr. de`ka ten + ke`ras a horn.]
(Zool.)
The division of Cephalopoda which includes the squids, cuttlefishes, and others having ten arms or tentacles; -- called also Decapoda. [Written also Decacera.] See Dibranchiata.


word: Decachordon
definition:
Decachordon

Decachord

{ Dec"a*chord (?), Dec`a*chor"don (?), }
n.
[Gr. deka`chordos tenstringed; de`ka ten + chordh` a string.]
1.
An ancient Greek musical instrument of ten strings, resembling the harp.

2.
Something consisting of ten parts.
W. Watson.


word: Decacuminated
definition:
Decacuminated

Dec`a*cu"mi*na`ted
(?)
a.
[L. decacuminare to cut off the top. See Cacuminate.]
Having the point or top cut off.
[Obs.]
Bailey.


word: Decade
definition:
Decade

Dec"ade
(?)
n.
[F. décade, L. decas, -adis, fr. Gr. _;, fr. de`ka ten. See Ten.]
A group or division of ten; esp., a period of ten years; a decennium; as, a decade of years or days; a decade of soldiers; the second decade of Livy.
[Written also decad.]

During this notable decade of years.
Gladstone.


word: Decadency
definition:
Decadency

Decadence

{ De*ca"dence (?), De*ca"den*cy (?), }
n.
[LL. decadentia; L. de- + cadere to fall: cf. F. décadence. See Decay.]
A falling away; decay; deterioration; declension. “The old castle, where the family lived in their decadence.”
Sir W. Scott.


word: Decadent₂
definition:
Decadent

De*ca"dent
(?)
n.
One that is decadent, or deteriorating; esp., one characterized by, or exhibiting, the qualities of those who are degenerating to a lower type; -- specif. applied to a certain school of modern French writers.
The decadents and æsthetes, and certain types of realists.
C. L. Dana.
The business men of a great State allow their State to be represented in Congress by “decadents”.
The Century.


word: Decagon
definition:
Decagon

Dec"a*gon
(?)
n.
[Pref. deca- + Gr. _; a corner or angle: cf. F. décagone.]
(Geom.)
A plane figure having ten sides and ten angles; any figure having ten angles. A regular decagon is one that has all its sides and angles equal.


word: Decagramme
definition:
Decagramme

Decagram

{ Dec"a*gram, Dec"a*gramme  }
(?)
n.
[F. décagramme; Gr. de`ka ten + F. gramme. See Gram.]
A mass in the metric system equal to ten grams, and equal to about 154.32 grains avoirdupois.  See 3rd Gram.


word: Decagynia
definition:
Decagynia

Dec`a*gyn"i*a
(dĕk`ȧ*jĭn"ĭ*ȧ)
n. pl.
[NL., fr. Gr. de`ka ten + gynh` a woman, a female.]
(Bot.)
A Linnæan order of plants characterized by having ten styles.


word: Deccagynous
definition:
Deccagynous

Decagynian

{ Dec`a*gyn"i*an (dĕk`ȧ*jĭn"ĭ*an), Dec*cag"y*nous (?), }
a.
[Cf. F. décagyne.]
(Bot.)
Belonging to the Decagynia; having ten styles.


word: Decahedron
definition:
Decahedron

Dec`a*he"dron
(dĕk`ȧ*hē"dr&obreve_;n)
n.
pl. E. Decahedrons (dĕk`ȧ*hē"dr&obreve_;nz), L. Decahedra (#).
[Pref. deca- + Gr. 'e`dra a seat, a base, fr. 'e`zesqai to sit: cf. F. décaèdre.]
(Geom.)
A solid figure or body inclosed by ten plane surfaces.
[Written also, less correctly, decaedron.]


word: Decalcify
definition:
Decalcify

De*cal"ci*fy
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decalcified (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Decalcifying.]
To deprive of calcareous matter; thus, to decalcify bones is to remove the stony part, and leave only the gelatin.


word: Decalcomanie
definition:
Decalcomanie

Decalcomania

{ De*cal`co*ma"ni*a (?), De*cal`co*ma"nie (?), }
n.
[F. décalcomanie.]
The art or process of transferring pictures and designs to china, glass, marble, etc., and permanently fixing them thereto.


word: Decalitre
definition:
Decalitre

Decaliter

{ Dec"a*li`ter, Dec"a*li`tre  }
(?)
n.
[F. décalitre; Gr. de`ka ten + F. litre. See Liter.]
A measure of capacity in the metric system; a cubic volume of ten liters, equal to about 610.24 cubic inches, that is, 2.642 wine gallons.


word: Decalogue
definition:
Decalogue

Dec"a*logue
(?; 115)
n.
[F. décalogue, L. decalogus, fr. Gr. _;; de`ka ten + _; speech, _; to speak, to say. See Ten.]
The Ten Commandments or precepts given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai, and originally written on two tables of stone.


word: Decameron
definition:
Decameron

De*cam"e*ron
(?)
n.
[It. decamerone, fr. Gr. de`ka ten + _; part; though quite generally supposed to be derived from "hme`ra day: cf. F. décaméron.]
A celebrated collection of tales, supposed to be related in ten days; -- written in the 14th century, by Boccaccio, an Italian.


word: Decametre
definition:
Decametre

Decameter

{ Dec"a*me`ter, Dec"a*me`tre  }
(?)
n.
[F. décamètre; Gr. de`ka ten + mètre. See Meter.]
A measure of length in the metric system; ten meters, equal to about 393.7 inches.


word: Decamp
definition:
Decamp

De*camp"
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Decamped (?; 215); p. pr. & vb. n. Decamping.]
[F. décamper; pref. dé- (L. dis) + camp camp. See Camp.]
1.
To break up a camp; to move away from a camping ground, usually by night or secretly.
Macaulay.

2.
Hence, to depart suddenly; to run away; -- generally used disparagingly.

The fathers were ordered to decamp, and the house was once again converted into a tavern.
Goldsmith.


word: Decanal
definition:
Decanal

Dec"a*nal
(?; 277)
a.
[Cf. F. décanal. See Dean.]
Pertaining to a dean or deanery.

His rectorial as well as decanal residence.
Churton.

Decanal side, the side of the choir on which the dean's tall is placed. -- Decanal stall, the stall allotted to the dean in the choir, on the right or south side of the chancel. Shipley.


word: Decandria
definition:
Decandria

De*can"dri*a
(?)
n. pl.
[NL., fr. Gr. de`ka ten + _;, _;, a man.]
(Bot.)
A Linnæan class of plants characterized by having ten stamens.


word: Decandrous
definition:
Decandrous

Decandrian

{ De*can"dri*an (?), De*can"drous (?), }
a.
[Cf. F. décandre.]
(Bot.)
Belonging to the Decandria; having ten stamens.


word: Decane
definition:
Decane

Dec"ane
(?)
n.
[See Deca-.]
(Chem.)
A liquid hydrocarbon, C10H22, of the paraffin series, including several isomeric modifications.


word: Decani
definition:
Decani

De*ca"ni
(?)
a.
[L., lit., of the dean.]
Used of the side of the choir on which the dean's stall is placed; decanal; -- correlative to cantoris; as, the decanal, or decani, side.


word: Decant
definition:
Decant

De*cant"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decanted; p. pr. & vb. n. Decanting.]
[F. décanter (cf. It. decantare), prop., to pour off from the edge of a vessel; pref. dé- (L. de) + OF. cant (It. canto) edge, border, end. See Cant an edge.]
To pour off gently, as liquor, so as not to disturb the sediment; or to pour from one vessel into another; as, to decant wine.


word: Decantation
definition:
Decantation

De`can*ta"tion
(?; 277)
n.
[Cf. F. décantation.]
The act of pouring off a clear liquor gently from its lees or sediment, or from one vessel into another.


word: Decanter
definition:
Decanter

De*cant"er
(?)
n.
1.
A vessel used to decant liquors, or for receiving decanted liquors; a kind of glass bottle used for holding wine or other liquors, from which drinking glasses are filled.

2.
One who decants liquors.


word: Decaphyllous
definition:
Decaphyllous

De*caph"yl*lous
(?)
a.
[Pref. deca- + Gr. _; leaf: cf. F. décaphylle.]
(Bot.)
Having ten leaves.


word: Decapitate
definition:
Decapitate

De*cap"i*tate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decapitated; p. pr. & vb. n. Decapitating.]
[LL. decapitatus, p. p. of decapitare; L. de- + caput head. See Chief.]
1.
To cut off the head of; to behead.

2.
To remove summarily from office.
[Colloq. U. S.]


word: Decapitation
definition:
Decapitation

De*cap`i*ta"tion
(?)
n.
[LL. decapitatio: cf. F. décapitation.]
The act of beheading; beheading.


word: Decapod
definition:
Decapod

Dec"a*pod
(dĕk"ȧ*p&obreve_;d)
n.
[Cf. F. décapode.]
(Zool.)
A crustacean with ten feet or legs, as a crab; one of the Decapoda. Also used adjectively, as a decapod crustacean.


word: Decapoda
definition:
Decapoda

De*cap"o*da
(de̝*kăp"o̝*dȧ)
prop. n. pl.
[NL., fr. Gr. de`ka  ten + poy`s, podo`s, foot.]
1.
(Zool.)
The order of Crustacea which includes the shrimps, lobsters, crabs, etc.

&hand_; They have a carapace, covering and uniting the somites of the head and thorax and inclosing a gill chamber on each side, and usually have five (rarely six) pairs of legs. They are divided into two principal groups: Brachyura and Macrura. Some writers recognize a third (Anomura) intermediate between the others.

2.
(Zool.)
A division of the dibranchiate cephalopods including the cuttlefishes and squids. See Decacera.


word: Decapodous
definition:
Decapodous

Decapodal

{ De*cap"o*dal (?), De*cap"o*dous (?), }
a.
(Zool.)
Belonging to the decapods; having ten feet; ten-footed.


word: Decarbonization
definition:
Decarbonization

De*car`bon*i*za"tion
(?)
n.
The action or process of depriving a substance of carbon.


word: Decarbonize
definition:
Decarbonize

De*car"bon*ize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decarbonized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Decarbonizing.]
To deprive of carbon; as, to decarbonize steel; to decarbonize the blood.

Decarbonized iron. See Malleable iron. -- Decarbonized steel, homogenous wrought iron made by a steel process, as that of Bessemer; ingot iron.


word: Decastere
definition:
Decastere

Dec"a*stere
(?)
n.
[L. décastère; Gr. de`ka ten + F. stère a stere.]
(Metric System)
A measure of capacity, equal to ten steres, or ten cubic meters.


word: Decastich
definition:
Decastich

Dec"a*stich
(?)
n.
[Pref. deca- + Gr. sti`chos a row, a line of writing, a verse.]
A poem consisting of ten lines.


word: Decastyle
definition:
Decastyle

Dec"a*style
(?)
a.
[Gr. _;; de`ka ten + sty`los a column.]
(Arch.)
Having ten columns in front; -- said of a portico, temple, etc.
n. A portico having ten pillars or columns in front.


word: Decasyllabic
definition:
Decasyllabic

Dec`a*syl*lab"ic
(?)
a.
[Pref. deca- + syllabic: cf. F. décasyllabique, décasyllable.]
Having, or consisting of, ten syllables.


word: decathlon
definition:
decathlon

de*cath"lon
(?)
n.
[See Deca-; Pentathlon.]
In the modern Olympic Games, a composite contest consisting of a 100-meter run, a broad jump, putting the shot, a running high-jump, a 400-meter run, throwing the discus, a 100-meter hurdle race, pole vaulting, throwing the javelin, and a 1500-meter run.


word: Decay
definition:
Decay

De*cay"
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Decayed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Decaying.]
[OF. decaeir, dechaer, decheoir, F. déchoir, to decline, fall, become less; L. de- + cadere to fall. See Chance.]
To pass gradually from a sound, prosperous, or perfect state, to one of imperfection, adversity, or dissolution; to waste away; to decline; to fail; to become weak, corrupt, or disintegrated; to rot; to perish; as, a tree decays; fortunes decay; hopes decay.

Ill fares the land, to hastening ills a prey,
Where wealth accumulates and men decay.
Goldsmith.


word: Decay₂
definition:
Decay

De*cay"
v. t.
1.
To cause to decay; to impair.
[R.]

Infirmity, that decays the wise.
Shak.

2.
To destroy.
[Obs.]
Shak.


word: Decay₃
definition:
Decay

De*cay"
n.
1.
Gradual failure of health, strength, soundness, prosperity, or of any species of excellence or perfection; tendency toward dissolution or extinction; corruption; rottenness; decline; deterioration; as, the decay of the body; the decay of virtue; the decay of the Roman empire; a castle in decay.

Perhaps my God, though he be far before,
May turn, and take me by the hand, and more --
May strengthen my decays.
Herbert.

His [Johnson's] failure was not to be ascribed to intellectual decay.
Macaulay.

Which has caused the decay of the consonants to follow somewhat different laws.
James Byrne.

2.
Destruction; death.
[Obs.]
Spenser.

3.
Cause of decay.
[R.]

He that plots to be the only figure among ciphers, is the decay of the whole age.
Bacon.


word: Decayed
definition:
Decayed

De*cayed"
(?)
a.
Fallen, as to physical or social condition; affected with decay; rotten; as, decayed vegetation or vegetables; a decayed fortune or gentleman.
De*cay"ed*ness (#), n.


word: Decease
definition:
Decease

De*cease"
(?)
n.
[OE. deses, deces, F. décès, fr. L. decessus departure, death, fr. decedere to depart, die; de- + cedere to withdraw. See Cease, Cede.]
Departure, especially departure from this life; death.

His decease, which he should accomplish at Jerusalem.
Luke ix. 31.

And I, the whilst you mourn for his decease,
Will with my mourning plaints your plaint increase.
Spenser.


word: Decease₂
definition:
Decease

De*cease"
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Deceased (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deceasing.]
To depart from this life; to die; to pass away.

She's dead, deceased, she's dead.
Shak.

When our summers have deceased.
Tennyson.

Inasmuch as he carries the malignity and the lie with him, he so far deceases from nature.
Emerson.


word: Deceit
definition:
Deceit

De*ceit"
(?)
n.
[OF. deceit, desçait, decept (cf. deceite, deçoite), fr. L. deceptus deception, fr. decipere. See Deceive.]
1.
An attempt or disposition to deceive or lead into error; any declaration, artifice, or practice, which misleads another, or causes him to believe what is false; a contrivance to entrap; deception; a wily device; fraud.

Making the ephah small and the shekel great, and falsifying the balances by deceit.
Amos viii. 5.

Friendly to man, far from deceit or guile.
Milton.

Yet still we hug the dear deceit.
N. Cotton.

2.
(Law)
Any trick, collusion, contrivance, false representation, or underhand practice, used to defraud another. When injury is thereby effected, an action of deceit, as it called, lies for compensation.


word: Deceitful
definition:
Deceitful

De*ceit"ful
(?)
a.
Full of, or characterized by, deceit; serving to mislead or insnare; trickish; fraudulent; cheating; insincere.

Harboring foul deceitful thoughts.
Shak.


word: Deceitfulness
definition:
Deceitfulness

De*ceit"ful*ness
n.
1.
The disposition to deceive; as, a man's deceitfulness may be habitual.

2.
The quality of being deceitful; as, the deceitfulness of a man's practices.

3.
Tendency to mislead or deceive.
deceitfulness
Matt. xiii. 22.


word: Deceivable
definition:
Deceivable

De*ceiv"a*ble
(?)
a.
[F. décevable.]
1.
Fitted to deceive; deceitful.
[Obs.]

The fraud of deceivable traditions.
Milton.

2.
Subject to deceit; capable of being misled.

Blind, and thereby deceivable.
Milton.


word: Deceivableness
definition:
Deceivableness

De*ceiv"a*ble*ness
n.
1.
Capability of deceiving.

With all deceivableness of unrighteousness.
2 Thess. ii. 10.

2.
Liability to be deceived or misled; as, the deceivableness of a child.


word: Deceive
definition:
Deceive

De*ceive"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deceived (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deceiving.]
[OE. deceveir, F. décevoir, fr. L. decipere to catch, insnare, deceive; de- + capere to take, catch. See Capable, and cf. Deceit, Deception.]
1.
To lead into error; to cause to believe what is false, or disbelieve what is true; to impose upon; to mislead; to cheat; to disappoint; to delude; to insnare.

Evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
2 Tim. iii. 13.

Nimble jugglers that deceive the eye.
Shak.

What can 'scape the eye
Of God all-seeing, or deceive his heart?
Milton.

2.
To beguile; to amuse, so as to divert the attention; to while away; to take away as if by deception.

These occupations oftentimes deceived
The listless hour.
Wordsworth.

3.
To deprive by fraud or stealth; to defraud.
[Obs.]

Plant fruit trees in large borders, and set therein fine flowers, but thin and sparingly, lest they deceive the trees.
Bacon.


word: Deceiver
definition:
Deceiver

De*ceiv"er
(?)
n.
One who deceives; one who leads into error; a cheat; an impostor.

The deceived and the deceiver are his.
Job xii. 16.


word: decelerate
definition:
decelerate

decelerate
v. i.
1.
1
to reduce speed; as, The car decelerated.  Opposite of accelerate.

Syn. -- slow, slow down, slow up, retard.


word: decelerate₂
definition:
decelerate

decelerate
v. t.
to cause to reduce speed.  Opposite of accelerate.

Syn. -- slow down.


word: deceleration
definition:
deceleration

deceleration
n.
a decrease in velocity.  Opposite of acceleration

Syn. -- slowing, retardation.


word: December
definition:
December

De*cem"ber
(de̝*sĕm"bẽr)
prop. n.
[F. décembre, from L. December, fr. decem ten; this being the tenth month among the early Romans, who began the year in March. See Ten.]
1.
The twelfth and last month of the year, containing thirty-one days. During this month occurs the winter solstice.

2.
Fig.: With reference to the end of the year and to the winter season; as, the December of his life.


word: Decembrist
definition:
Decembrist

De*cem"brist
(?)
n.
(Russian Hist.)
One of those who conspired for constitutional government against the Emperor Nicholas on his accession to the throne at the death of Alexander I., in December, 1825; -- called also Dekabrist.
He recalls the history of the decembrists . . . that gallant band of revolutionists.
G. Kennan.


word: Decemfid
definition:
Decemfid

De*cem"fid
(de̝*sĕm"fĭd)
a.
[L. decem ten + root of findere to cleave.]
(Bot.)
Cleft into ten parts.


word: Decemlocular
definition:
Decemlocular

De`cem*loc"u*lar
(?)
a.
[L. decem ten + E. locular.]
(Bot.)
Having ten cells for seeds.


word: Decempedal
definition:
Decempedal

De*cem"pe*dal
(de̝*sĕm"pe̝*dal)
a.
[L. decem ten + E. pedal.]
1.
Ten feet in length.

2.
(Zool.)
Having ten feet; decapodal.
[R.]
Bailey.


word: Decemvir
definition:
Decemvir

De*cem"vir
(de̝*sĕm"vẽr)
n.
pl. E. Decemvirs (#), L. Decemviri (#).
[L., fr. decem ten + vir a man.]
1.
One of a body of ten magistrates in ancient Rome.

&hand_; The title of decemvirs was given to various bodies of Roman magistrates. The most celebrated decemvirs framed “the laws of the Twelve Tables,” about 450 B. C., and had absolute authority for three years.

2.
A member of any body of ten men in authority.


word: Decemvirate
definition:
Decemvirate

De*cem"vi*rate
(?)
n.
[L. decemviratus.]
1.
The office or term of office of the decemvirs in Rome.

2.
A body of ten men in authority.


word: Decency
definition:
Decency

De"cen*cy
(?)
n.
pl. Decencies (#).
[L. decentia, fr. decens: cf. F. décence. See Decent.]
1.
The quality or state of being decent, suitable, or becoming, in words or behavior; propriety of form in social intercourse, in actions, or in discourse; proper formality; becoming ceremony; seemliness; hence, freedom from obscenity or indecorum; modesty.

Observances of time, place, and of decency in general.
Burke.

Immodest words admit of no defense,
For want of decency is want of sense.
Roscommon.

2.
That which is proper or becoming.

The external decencies of worship.
Atterbury.

Those thousand decencies, that daily flow
From all her words and actions.
Milton.


word: Decene
definition:
Decene

De"cene
(?)
n.
[L. decem ten.]
(Chem.)
One of the higher hydrocarbons, C10H20, of the ethylene series.


word: Decennary
definition:
Decennary

De*cen"na*ry
(?)
n.
pl. Decennaries (#).
[L. decennium a period of ten years; decem ten + annus a year.]
1.
A period of ten years.

2.
(O. Eng. Law)
A tithing consisting of ten neighboring families.
Burrill.


word: Decennial
definition:
Decennial

De*cen"ni*al
(?)
a.
[See Decennary.]
Consisting of ten years; happening every ten years; as, a decennial period; decennial games.
Hallam.


word: Decennium
definition:
Decennium

De*cen"ni*um
(?)
n.
pl. Decenniums (#), L. Decennia (#).
[L.]
A period of ten years.
decennium
Hallam.
decennium
A. W. Ward.


word: Decennovary
definition:
Decennovary

Decennoval

{ De*cen"no*val (?), De*cen"no*va*ry (?), }
a.
[L. decem ten + novem nine.]
Pertaining to the number nineteen; of nineteen years.
[R.]
Holder.


word: decent
definition:
decent

de"cent
(dē"sent)
a.
[L. decens, decentis, p. pr. of decere to be fitting or becoming; akin to decus glory, honor, ornament, Gr. dokei^n to seem good, to seem, think; cf. Skr. dāç to grant, to give; and perh. akin to E. attire, tire: cf. F. décent.  Cf. Decorate, Decorum, Deign.]
1.
Suitable in words, behavior, dress, or ceremony; becoming; fit; decorous; proper; seemly; as, decent conduct; decent language.
Shak.

Before his decent steps.
Milton.

2.
Free from immodesty or obscenity; modest.

3.
Comely; shapely; well-formed.
[Archaic]

A sable stole of cyprus lawn
Over thy decent shoulders drawn.
Milton.

By foreign hands thy decent limbs composed.
Pope.

4.
Moderate, but competent; sufficient; hence, respectable; fairly good; reasonably comfortable or satisfying; as, a decent fortune; a decent person.

A decent retreat in the mutability of human affairs.
Burke.


word: decentralise
definition:
decentralise

decentralise
v.
same as decentralize.  Opposite of centralize and concentrate

Syn. -- decentralize, deconcentrate.


word: decentralizing
definition:
decentralizing

decentralizing
adj. prenom.
causing a dispersion or movement away from the center; -- used especially of power or administrative functions.  Opposite of centralizing.


word: decentralization
definition:
decentralization

de*cen`tral*i*za"tion
(?)
n.
1.
The action of decentralizing, or the state of being decentralized.
decentralization
J. P. Peters.

2.
the spread of power away from the center to local branches or governments.


word: Decentralize
definition:
Decentralize

De*cen"tral*ize
(?)
v. t.
to make less central; to prevent from centralizing; to cause to withdraw from the center or place of concentration; to divide and distribute (what has been united or concentrated); -- esp. said of authority, or the administration of public affairs.


word: Deceptible
definition:
Deceptible

De*cep"ti*ble
(?)
a.
Capable of being deceived; deceivable.
Sir T. Browne.
De*cep`ti*bil"i*ty (_;), n.


word: Deception
definition:
Deception

De*cep"tion
(?)
n.
[F. déception, L. deceptio, fr. decipere, deceptum. See Deceive.]
1.
The act of deceiving or misleading.
South.

2.
The state of being deceived or misled.

There is one thing relating either to the action or enjoyments of man in which he is not liable to deception.
South.

3.
That which deceives or is intended to deceive; false representation; artifice; cheat; fraud.

There was of course room for vast deception.
Motley.


word: Deceptious
definition:
Deceptious

De*cep"tious
(?)
a.
[LL. deceptiosus.]
Tending deceive; delusive.
[R.]

As if those organs had deceptious functions.
Shak.


word: Deceptive
definition:
Deceptive

De*cep"tive
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. déceptif. See Deceive.]
Tending to deceive; having power to mislead, or impress with false opinions; as, a deceptive countenance or appearance.

Language altogether deceptive, and hiding the deeper reality from our eyes.
Trench.

Deceptive cadence (Mus.), a cadence on the subdominant, or in some foreign key, postponing the final close.


word: Deceptiveness
definition:
Deceptiveness

De*cep"tive*ness
n.
The power or habit of deceiving; tendency or aptness to deceive.


word: Decern
definition:
Decern

De*cern"
(?)
v. t.
[L. decernere. See Decree.]
1.
To perceive, discern, or decide.
[Obs.]
Granmer.

2.
(Scots Law)
To decree; to adjudge.


word: Decerp
definition:
Decerp

De*cerp"
(?)
v. t.
[L. decerpere; de- + carpere to pluck.]
To pluck off; to crop; to gather.
[Obs.]


word: Decerption
definition:
Decerption

De*cerp"tion
(?)
n.
1.
The act of plucking off; a cropping.

2.
That which is plucked off or rent away; a fragment; a piece.
Glanvill.


word: Decertation
definition:
Decertation

De`cer*ta"tion
(?)
n.
[L. decertatio, fr. decertare, decertatum; de- + certare to contend.]
Contest for mastery; contention; strife.
[R.]
Arnway.


word: Decession
definition:
Decession

De*ces"sion
(?)
n.
[L. decessio, fr. decedere to depart. See Decease, n.]
Departure; decrease; -- opposed to accesion.
[Obs.]
Jer. Taylor.


word: Dechristianize
definition:
Dechristianize

De*chris"tian*ize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Dechristianized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Dechristianizing.]
To turn from, or divest of, Christianity.


word: Deciare
definition:
Deciare

Dec"i*are`
(?)
n.
[F. déciare; pref. déci- tenth (fr. L. decimus) + are. See 2d Are.]
(Metric System)
A measure of area, the tenth part of an are; ten square meters.


word: Decide
definition:
Decide

De*cide"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decided; p. pr. & vb. n. Deciding.]
[L. decīdere; de- + caedere to cut, cut off; prob. akin to E. shed, v.: cf. F. décider.  Cf. Decision.]
1.
To cut off; to separate.
[Obs.]

Our seat denies us traffic here;
The sea, too near, decides us from the rest.
Fuller.

2.
To bring to a termination, as a question, controversy, struggle, by giving the victory to one side or party; to render judgment concerning; to determine; to settle.

So shall thy judgment be; thyself hast decided it.
1 Kings xx. 40.

The quarrel toucheth none but us alone;
Betwixt ourselves let us decide it then.
Shak.


word: Decide₂
definition:
Decide

De*cide"
v. i.
To determine; to form a definite opinion; to come to a conclusion; to give decision; as, the court decided in favor of the defendant.

Who shall decide, when doctors disagree?
Pope.


word: Decided
definition:
Decided

De*cid"ed
(?)
a.
1.
Free from ambiguity; unequivocal; unmistakable; unquestionable; clear; evident; as, a decided advantage.
decided
Prescott.

2.
Free from doubt or wavering; determined; of fixed purpose; fully settled; positive; resolute; as, a decided opinion or purpose.


word: Decidua
definition:
Decidua

De*cid"u*a
(?; 135)
n.
[NL., fr. L. deciduus. See Deciduous.]
(Anat.)
The inner layer of the wall of the uterus, which envelops the embryo, forms a part of the placenta, and is discharged with it.


word: Deciduata
definition:
Deciduata

De*cid`u*a"ta
(?)
n. pl.
[NL.]
(Zool.)
A group of Mammalia in which a decidua is thrown off with, or after, the fetus, as in the human species.


word: Deciduous
definition:
Deciduous

De*cid"u*ous
(?; 135)
a.
[L. deciduus, fr. dec_;dere to fall off; de- + cadere to fall. See Chance.]
(Biol.)
Falling off, or subject to fall or be shed, at a certain season, or a certain stage or interval of growth, as leaves (except of evergreens) in autumn, or as parts of animals, such as hair, teeth, antlers, etc.; also, shedding leaves or parts at certain seasons, stages, or intervals; as, deciduous trees; the deciduous membrane.


word: Decigramme
definition:
Decigramme

Decigram

{ Dec"i*gram, Dec"i*gramme  }
(?)
n.
[F. décigramme; pref. déci- tenth (fr. L. decimus) + gramme.]
A quantity of mass in the metric system equal to one tenth of a gram, and equal to 1.5432 grains avoirdupois.  See 3rd gram.


word: Decile
definition:
Decile

Decil

{ Dec"il, Dec"ile  }
(?)
n.
[F. décil, fr. L. decem ten_; cf. It. decile.]
(Astrol.)
An aspect or position of two planets, when they are distant from each other a tenth part of the zodiac, or 36°.


word: Decilitre
definition:
Decilitre

Deciliter

{ Dec"i*li`ter, Dec"i*li`tre  }
(?)
n.
[F. décilitre; pref. déci- tenth (L. decimus) + litre. See Liter.]
A measure of capacity or volume in the metric system; one tenth of a liter, equal to 6.1022 cubic inches, or 3.38 fluid ounces.


word: Decillion
definition:
Decillion

De*cil"lion
(?)
n.
[L. decem ten + the ending of million.]
According to the English notation, a million involved to the tenth power, or a unit with sixty ciphers annexed; according to the French and American notation, a thousand involved to the eleventh power, or a unit with thirty-three ciphers annexed. [See the Note under Numeration.]


word: Decillionth
definition:
Decillionth

De*cil"lionth
(?)
a.
Pertaining to a decillion, or to the quotient of unity divided by a decillion.


word: Decillionth₂
definition:
Decillionth

De*cil"lionth
(?)
n.
(a)
The quotient of unity divided by a decillion.
(b)
One of a decillion equal parts.


word: Decimal
definition:
Decimal

Dec"i*mal
(?)
a.
[F. décimal (cf. LL. decimalis), fr. L. decimus tenth, fr. decem ten. See Ten, and cf. Dime.]
Of or pertaining to decimals; numbered or proceeding by tens; having a tenfold increase or decrease, each unit being ten times the unit next smaller; as, decimal notation; a decimal coinage.

Decimal arithmetic, the common arithmetic, in which numeration proceeds by tens. -- Decimal fraction, a fraction in which the denominator is some power of 10, as 2/10, 25/100, and is usually not expressed, but is signified by a point placed at the left hand of the numerator, as .2, .25. -- Decimal point, a dot or full stop at the left of a decimal fraction. The figures at the left of the point represent units or whole numbers, as 1.05.


word: Decimal₂
definition:
Decimal

Dec"i*mal
n.
A number expressed in the scale of tens; specifically, and almost exclusively, used as synonymous with a decimal fraction.

Circulating decimal, or Circulatory decimal, a decimal fraction in which the same figure, or set of figures, is constantly repeated; as, 0.354354354; -- called also recurring decimal, repeating decimal, and repetend.


word: decimalization
definition:
decimalization

decimalization
n.
the act of changing to a decimal system; as, the decimalization of the British currency.

Syn. -- decimalisation.


word: Decimalize
definition:
Decimalize

Dec"i*mal*ize
(?)
v. t.
to convert the dominant units of measure (e.g. of currency) to a decimal-based system; to reduce to a decimal system; as, to decimalize the currency.
Dec`i*mal*i*za"tion (#), n.


word: Decimate
definition:
Decimate

Dec"i*mate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decimated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Decimating (?).]
[L. decimatus, p. p. of decimare to decimate (in senses 1 & 2), fr. decimus tenth. See Decimal.]
1.
To take the tenth part of; to tithe.
Johnson.

2.
To select by lot and punish with death every tenth man of; as, to decimate a regiment as a punishment for mutiny.
Macaulay.

3.
To destroy a considerable part of; as, to decimate an army in battle; to decimate a people by disease.


word: Decimation
definition:
Decimation

Dec`i*ma"tion
(?)
n.
[L. decimatio: cf. F. décimation.]
1.
A tithing.
[Obs.]
State Trials (1630).

2.
A selection of every tenth person by lot, as for punishment.
Shak.

3.
The destruction of any large proportion, as of people by pestilence or war.
Milman.


word: Decime
definition:
Decime

Dé`cime"
(?)
n.
[F.]
A French coin, the tenth part of a franc, equal to about two cents (around 1900).  In 2001 all previous French coins were superseded by the euro.


word: Decimetre
definition:
Decimetre

Decimeter

{ Dec"i*me`ter, Dec"i*me`tre  }
(?)
n.
[F. décimètre; pref. déci- tenth (fr. L. decimus) + mètre. See Meter.]
A measure of length in the metric system; one tenth of a meter, equal to 3.937 inches.


word: Decimosexto
definition:
Decimosexto

Dec`i*mo*sex"to
(?)
n.
[Prop., in sixteenth; fr. L. decimus tenth + sextus sixth.]
A book consisting of sheets, each of which is folded into sixteen leaves; hence, indicating, more or less definitely, a size of book; -- usually written 16mo or 16°.


word: Decimosexto₂
definition:
Decimosexto

Dec`i*mo*sex"to
a.
Having sixteen leaves to a sheet; as, a decimosexto form, book, leaf, size.


word: Decine
definition:
Decine

De"cine
(?; 104)
n.
[From L. decem ten.]
(Chem.)
One of the higher hydrocarbons, C10H15, of the acetylene series; -- called also decenylene.


word: Decipher
definition:
Decipher

De*ci"pher
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deciphered (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deciphering.]
[Pref. de- + cipher. Formed in imitation of F. déchiffrer. See Cipher.]
1.
To translate from secret characters or ciphers into intelligible terms; as, to decipher a letter written in secret characters.

2.
To find out, so as to be able to make known the meaning of; to make out or read, as words badly written or partly obliterated; to detect; to reveal; to unfold.

3.
To stamp; to detect; to discover.
[R.]

You are both deciphered, . . . 
For villains.
Shak.


word: Decipherable
definition:
Decipherable

De*ci"pher*a*ble
(?)
a.
Capable of being deciphered; as, old writings not decipherable.


word: Decipiency
definition:
Decipiency

De*cip"i*en*cy
(?)
n.
[L. decipiens, p. pr. of decipere. See Deceive.]
State of being deceived; hallucination.
[Obs.]
Sir T. Browne.


word: Decipium
definition:
Decipium

De*cip"i*um
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. L. decipere to deceive.]
(Chem.)
A supposed rare element, said to be associated with cerium, yttrium, etc., in the mineral samarskite, and more recently called samarium. Symbol Dp. See Samarium.


word: Decision
definition:
Decision

De*ci"sion
(?)
n.
[L. decisio, fr. decīdere, decisum: cf. F. décision. See Decide.]
1.
Cutting off; division; detachment of a part.
[Obs.]
Bp. Pearson.

2.
The act of deciding; act of settling or terminating, as a controversy, by giving judgment on the matter at issue; determination, as of a question or doubt; settlement; conclusion.

The decision of some dispute.
Atterbury.

3.
An account or report of a conclusion, especially of a legal adjudication or judicial determination of a question or cause; as, a decision of arbitrators; a decision of the Supreme Court.

4.
The quality of being decided; prompt and fixed determination; unwavering firmness; as, to manifest great decision.


word: Decisive
definition:
Decisive

De*ci*sive
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. décisif. See Decision.]
1.
Having the power or quality of deciding a question or controversy; putting an end to contest or controversy; final; conclusive.
decisive
Bates.
Decisive
Macaulay.
Decisive
Hallam.

2.
Marked by promptness and decision.

A noble instance of this attribute of the decisive character.
J. Foster.


word: Decisory
definition:
Decisory

De*ci"so*ry
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. décisoire. See Decision.]
Able to decide or determine; having a tendency to decide.
[R.]


word: Decistere
definition:
Decistere

Dec"i*stere
(?)
n.
[F. décistère; pref. déci- tenth (fr. L. decimus) + stère a stere.]
(Metric System)
The tenth part of the stere or cubic meter, equal to 3.531 cubic feet. See Stere.


word: Decitizenize
definition:
Decitizenize

De*cit"i*zen*ize
(?)
v. t.
To deprive of the rights of citizenship.
[R.]

We have no law -- as the French have -- to decitizenize a citizen.
Edw. Bates.


word: Decivilize
definition:
Decivilize

De*civ"i*lize
(?)
v. t.
To reduce from civilization to a savage state.
[R.]
Blackwood's Mag.


word: Deck
definition:
Deck

Deck
(dĕk)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decked (dĕkt); p. pr. & vb. n. Decking.]
[D. dekken to cover; akin to E. thatch. See Thatch.]
1.
To cover; to overspread.

To deck with clouds the uncolored sky.
Milton.

2.
To dress, as the person; to clothe; especially, to clothe with more than ordinary elegance; to array; to adorn; to embellish.

Syn. -- adorn, decorate, grace, embellish, ornament, beautify.

Deck thyself now with majesty and excellency.
Job xl. 10.

And deck my body in gay ornaments.
Shak.

The dew with spangles decked the ground.
Dryden.

3.
To furnish with a deck, as a vessel.

4.
to knock down (a person) with a forceful blow; as, He decked his opponent with a single punch.

Syn. -- coldcock, dump, knock down, floor.


word: Deck₂
definition:
Deck

Deck
n.
[D. dek. See Deck, v.]
1.
The floorlike covering of the horizontal sections, or compartments, of a ship. Small vessels have only one deck; larger ships have two or three decks.

&hand_; The following are the more common names of the decks of vessels having more than one.

Berth deck (Navy), a deck next below the gun deck, where the hammocks of the crew are swung. -- Boiler deck (River Steamers), the deck on which the boilers are placed. -- Flush deck, any continuous, unbroken deck from stem to stern. -- Gun deck (Navy), a deck below the spar deck, on which the ship's guns are carried. If there are two gun decks, the upper one is called the main deck, the lower, the lower gun deck; if there are three, one is called the middle gun deck. -- Half-deck, that portion of the deck next below the spar deck which is between the mainmast and the cabin. -- Hurricane deck (River Steamers, etc.), the upper deck, usually a light deck, erected above the frame of the hull. -- Orlop deck, the deck or part of a deck where the cables are stowed, usually below the water line. -- Poop deck, the deck forming the roof of a poop or poop cabin, built on the upper deck and extending from the mizzenmast aft. -- Quarter-deck, the part of the upper deck abaft the mainmast, including the poop deck when there is one. -- Spar deck. (a) Same as the upper deck. (b) Sometimes a light deck fitted over the upper deck. -- Upper deck, the highest deck of the hull, extending from stem to stern.

2.
(arch.)
The upper part or top of a mansard roof or curb roof when made nearly flat.

3.
(Railroad)
The roof of a passenger car.

4.
A pack or set of playing cards.

The king was slyly fingered from the deck.
Shak.

5.
A heap or store.
[Obs.]

Who . . . hath such trinkets
Ready in the deck.
Massinger.

6.
(Aëronautics)
A main aëroplane surface, esp. of a biplane or multiplane.

7.
the portion of a bridge which serves as the roadway.

8.
a flat platform adjacent to a house, usually without a roof; -- it is typically used for relaxing out of doors, outdoor cooking, or entertaining guests.

Between decks. See under Between. -- Deck bridge (Railroad Engineering), a bridge which carries the track upon the upper chords; -- distinguished from a through bridge, which carries the track upon the lower chords, between the girders. -- Deck curb (Arch.), a curb supporting a deck in roof construction. -- Deck floor (Arch.), a floor which serves also as a roof, as of a belfry or balcony. -- Deck hand, a sailor hired to help on the vessel's deck, but not expected to go aloft. -- Deck molding (Arch.), the molded finish of the edge of a deck, making the junction with the lower slope of the roof. -- Deck roof (Arch.), a nearly flat roof which is not surmounted by parapet walls. -- Deck transom (Shipbuilding), the transom into which the deck is framed. -- To clear the decks (Naut.), to remove every unnecessary incumbrance in preparation for battle; to prepare for action. -- To sweep the deck (Card Playing), to clear off all the stakes on the table by winning them.


word: Deck chair
definition:
Deck chair

Deck" chair`
(?)
n.
a folding chair, usually having arms and a full-length leg rest; -- used for relaxing on the deck of a ship, at poolside, etc.  Also called steamer chair


word: decked
definition:
decked

decked
adj.
clothed or adorned with finery.

Syn. -- adorned(predicate), bedecked(predicate)(predicate), decked out(predicate).


word: Decker
definition:
Decker

Deck"er
(dĕk"ẽr)
n.
1.
One who, or that which, decks or adorns; a coverer; as, a table decker.

2.
A vessel or vehicle which has a deck or decks; -- used esp. in composition; as, a single-decker; a three-decker;  a double-decker bus.


word: deckle
definition:
deckle

dec"kle
(dĕk"k'l)
n.
[Cf. G. deckel cover, lid.]
(Paper Making)
A separate thin wooden frame used to form the border of a hand mold, or a curb of India rubber or other material which rests on, and forms the edge of, the mold in a paper machine and determines the width of the paper.
[Spelt also deckel, and dekle.]


word: Deckle edge
definition:
Deckle edge

Dec"kle edge`
The rough, untrimmed edge of paper left by the deckle; also, a rough edge in imitation of this.


word: deckled
definition:
deckled

deckle-edged

dec"kle-edged` dec"kled
(?)
a.
having a rough edge; having a deckle edge; -- used of handmade paper or paper resembling handmade; as, deckle-edged paper; a deckle-edged book.

Syn. -- featheredged.


word: Declaim
definition:
Declaim

De*claim"
(de̝*klām")
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Declaimed (de̝*klāmd"); p. pr. & vb. n. Declaiming.]
[L. declamare; de- + clamare to cry out: cf. F. déclamer. See Claim.]
1.
To speak rhetorically; to make a formal speech or oration; to harangue; specifically, to recite a speech, poem, etc., in public as a rhetorical exercise; to practice public speaking; as, the students declaim twice a week.

2.
To speak for rhetorical display; to speak pompously, noisily, or theatrically; to make an empty speech; to rehearse trite arguments in debate; to rant.

Grenville seized the opportunity to declaim on the repeal of the stamp act.
Bancroft.


word: Declaim₂
definition:
Declaim

De*claim"
(?)
v. t.
1.
To utter in public; to deliver in a rhetorical or set manner.

2.
To defend by declamation; to advocate loudly.
[Obs.]
Declaims
South.


word: Declamation
definition:
Declamation

Dec`la*ma"tion
(?)
n.
[L. declamatio, from declamare: cf. F. déclamation. See Declaim.]
1.
The act or art of declaiming; rhetorical delivery; haranguing; loud speaking in public; especially, the public recitation of speeches as an exercise in schools and colleges; as, the practice declamation by students.

The public listened with little emotion, but with much civility, to five acts of monotonous declamation.
Macaulay.

2.
A set or harangue; declamatory discourse.

3.
Pretentious rhetorical display, with more sound than sense; as, mere declamation.


word: Declamatory
definition:
Declamatory

De*clam"a*to*ry
(?)
a.
[L. declamatorius: cf. F. déclamatoire.]
1.
Pertaining to declamation; treated in the manner of a rhetorician; as, a declamatory theme.

2.
Characterized by rhetorical display; pretentiously rhetorical; without solid sense or argument; bombastic; noisy; as, a declamatory way or style.


word: Declarant
definition:
Declarant

De*clar"ant
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. déclarant, p. pr. of déclarer.]
(Law)
One who declares.
Abbott.


word: Declaration
definition:
Declaration

Dec`la*ra"tion
(?)
n.
[F. déclaration, fr. L. declaratio, fr. declarare. See Declare.]
1.
The act of declaring, or publicly announcing; explicit asserting; undisguised token of a ground or side taken on any subject; proclamation; exposition; as, the declaration of an opinion; a declaration of war, etc.

2.
That which is declared or proclaimed; announcement; distinct statement; formal expression; avowal.

Declarations of mercy and love . . . in the Gospel.
Tillotson.

3.
The document or instrument containing such statement or proclamation; as, the Declaration of Independence (now preserved in Washington).

In 1776 the Americans laid before Europe that noble Declaration, which ought to be hung up in the nursery of every king, and blazoned on the porch of every royal palace.
Buckle.

4.
(Law)
That part of the process or pleadings in which the plaintiff sets forth in order and at large his cause of complaint; the narration of the plaintiff's case containing the count, or counts. See Count, n., 3.

Declaration of Independence. (Amer. Hist.) See Declaration of Independence in the vocabulary. See also under Independence. -- Declaration of rights. (Eng. Hist) See Bill of rights, under Bill. -- Declaration of trust (Law), a paper subscribed by a grantee of property, acknowledging that he holds it in trust for the purposes and upon the terms set forth. Abbott.


word: Declaration of Independence
definition:
Declaration of Independence

Declaration of Independence
(?)
n.
(Amer. Hist.)
The document promugated, July 4, 1776, by the leaders of the thirteen British Colonies in America that they have formed an independent country.  See note below.

The Declaration of Independence of The United States of America

When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume, among the Powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.  Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shown, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed.  But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. -- Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government.

The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States.  To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.

He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.

He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.

He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their Public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.

He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.

He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the Legislative Powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.

He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws of Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migration hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.

He has obstructed the Administration of Justice, by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary Powers.

He has made judges dependent on his Will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.

He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our People, and eat out their substance.

He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.

He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil Power.

He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended legislation:

For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:

For protecting them, by a mock Trial, from Punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:

For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:

For imposing taxes on us without our Consent:

For depriving us, in many cases, of the benefits of Trial by Jury:

For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences:

For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies:

For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws, and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:

For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with Power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.

He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.

He has plundered our seas, ravaged our Coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.

He is at this time transporting large armies of foreign mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy of the Head of a civilized nation.

He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.

He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms:  Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury.  A Prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free People.

Nor have We been wanting in attention to our British brethren.  We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us.  We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here.  We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence.  They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity.  We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by the Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do.  And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the Protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.


word: Declarative
definition:
Declarative

De*clar"a*tive
(?)
a.
[L. declarativus, fr. declarare: cf. F. déclaratif.]
Making declaration, proclamation, or publication; explanatory; assertive; declaratory.
Declarative
Baker.

The “vox populi,” so declarative on the same side.
Swift.


word: Declaratively
definition:
Declaratively

De*clar"a*tive*ly
adv.
By distinct assertion; not impliedly; in the form of a declaration.

The priest shall expiate it, that is, declaratively.
Bates.


word: Declarator
definition:
Declarator

Dec"la*ra`tor
(?)
n.
[L., an announcer.]
(Scots Law)
A form of action by which some right or interest is sought to be judicially declared.


word: Declaratory
definition:
Declaratory

De*clar"a*to*ry
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. déclaratoire.]
Making declaration, explanation, or exhibition; making clear or manifest; affirmative; expressive; as, a clause declaratory of the will of the legislature.

Declaratory act (Law), an act or statute which sets forth more clearly, and declares what is, the existing law.


word: Declare
definition:
Declare

De*clare"
(de̝*klâr")
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Declared (de̝*klârd"); p. pr. & vb. n. Declaring.]
[F. déclarer, from L. declarare; de + clarare to make clear, clarus, clear, bright. See Clear.]
1.
To make clear; to free from obscurity.
[Obs.]
declare
Boyle.

2.
To make known by language; to communicate or manifest explicitly and plainly in any way; to exhibit; to publish; to proclaim; to announce.

This day I have begot whom I declare
My only Son.
Milton.

The heavens declare the glory of God.
Ps. xix. 1.

3.
To make declaration of; to assert; to affirm; to set forth; to avow; as, he declares the story to be false.

I the Lord . . . declare things that are right.
Isa. xlv. 19.

4.
(Com.)
To make full statement of, as goods, etc., for the purpose of paying taxes, duties, etc.

To declare off, to recede from an agreement, undertaking, contract, etc.; to renounce. -- To declare one's self, to avow one's opinion; to show openly what one thinks, or which side he espouses.


word: Declare₂
definition:
Declare

De*clare"
v. i.
1.
To make a declaration, or an open and explicit avowal; to proclaim one's self; -- often with for or against; as, victory declares against the allies.

Like fawning courtiers, for success they wait,
And then come smiling, and declare for fate.
Dryden.

2.
(Law)
To state the plaintiff's cause of action at law in a legal form; as, the plaintiff declares in trespass.


word: declared
definition:
declared

declared
adj.
1.
made known or openly avowed; as, their declared and their covert objectives; a declared liberal.  Opposite of undeclared.
avowed(prenominal), professed(prenominal)

2.
stated as fact; explicitly stated.

Syn. -- stated.


word: Declass
definition:
Declass

De*class"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Declassed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Declassing.]
[Cf. F. déclasser.]
To remove from a class; to separate or degrade from one's class.
North Am. Rev.


word: declasse
definition:
declasse

déclassé
(da̝`klă`sā", da̝`klä`sā")
adj.
[F.  Cf. F. déclasser.]
1.
Reduced or fallen in status, social position, class or rank; fallen from a high status or rank to a lower one.

2.
Of inferior grade, rank, status, or prestige.


word: declassification
definition:
declassification

declassification
n.
Reduction by the government of restrictions on a classified document or weapon.


word: declassified
definition:
declassified

declassified
adj.
having a security classification removed so as to be open to public inspection; -- of documents or information.


word: declassify
definition:
declassify

declassify
v.
to lift the restriction on publication [of documents] by reducing or eliminating the secrecy classification of; -- usually applied to government documents classified as secret.

Syn. -- make available again.


word: Declension
definition:
Declension

De*clen"sion
(?)
n.
[Apparently corrupted fr. F. déclinaison, fr. L. declinatio, fr. declinare. See Decline, and cf. Declination.]
1.
The act or the state of declining; declination; descent; slope.

The declension of the land from that place to the sea.
T. Burnet.

2.
A falling off towards a worse state; a downward tendency; deterioration; decay; as, the declension of virtue, of science, of a state, etc.

Seduced the pitch and height of all his thoughts
To base declension.
Shak.

3.
Act of courteously refusing; act of declining; a declinature; refusal; as, the declension of a nomination.

4.
(Gram.)
(a)
Inflection of nouns, adjectives, etc., according to the grammatical cases.
(b)
The form of the inflection of a word declined by cases; as, the first or the second declension of nouns, adjectives, etc.
(c)
Rehearsing a word as declined.

&hand_; The nominative was held to be the primary and original form, and was likened to a perpendicular line; the variations, or oblique cases, were regarded as fallings (hence called casus, cases, or fallings) from the nominative or perpendicular; and an enumerating of the various forms, being a sort of progressive descent from the noun's upright form, was called a declension.
Harris.

Declension of the needle, declination of the needle.


word: Declensional
definition:
Declensional

De*clen"sion*al
(?)
a.
Belonging to declension.

Declensional and syntactical forms.
M. Arnold.


word: Declinable
definition:
Declinable

De*clin"a*ble
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. déclinable. See Decline.]
Capable of being declined; admitting of declension or inflection; as, declinable parts of speech.


word: Declinate
definition:
Declinate

Dec"li*nate
(?)
a.
[L. declinatus, p. p. of declinare. See Decline.]
Bent downward or aside; (Bot.) bending downward in a curve; declined.


word: Declination
definition:
Declination

Dec`li*na"tion
(?)
n.
[L. declinatio a bending aside, an avoiding: cf. F. déclination a decadence. See Declension.]
1.
The act or state of bending downward; inclination; as, declination of the head.

2.
The act or state of falling off or declining from excellence or perfection; deterioration; decay; decline.
declination
Bacon.

Summer . . . is not looked on as a time
Of declination or decay.
Waller.

3.
The act of deviating or turning aside; oblique motion; obliquity; withdrawal.

The declination of atoms in their descent.
Bentley.

Every declination and violation of the rules.
South.

4.
The act or state of declining or refusing; withdrawal; refusal; averseness.

The queen's declination from marriage.
Stow.

5.
(Astron.)
The angular distance of any object from the celestial equator, either northward or southward.

6.
(Dialing)
The arc of the horizon, contained between the vertical plane and the prime vertical circle, if reckoned from the east or west, or between the meridian and the plane, reckoned from the north or south.

7.
(Gram.)
The act of inflecting a word; declension. See Decline, v. t., 4.

Angle of declination, the angle made by a descending line, or plane, with a horizontal plane. -- Circle of declination, a circle parallel to the celestial equator. -- Declination compass (Physics), a compass arranged for finding the declination of the magnetic needle. -- Declination of the compass or Declination of the needle, the horizontal angle which the magnetic needle makes with the true north-and-south line.


word: Declinator
definition:
Declinator

Dec"li*na`tor
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. déclinateur. See Decline.]
1.
An instrument for taking the declination or angle which a plane makes with the horizontal plane.

2.
A dissentient.
[R.]
Bp. Hacket.


word: Declinatory
definition:
Declinatory

De*clin"a*to*ry
(?; 277)
a.
[LL. declinatorius, fr. L. declinare: cf. F. déclinatoire.]
Containing or involving a declination or refusal, as of submission to a charge or sentence.
Blackstone.

Declinatory plea (O. Eng. Law), the plea of sanctuary or of benefit of clergy, before trial or conviction; -- now abolished.


word: Declinature
definition:
Declinature

De*clin"a*ture
(?; 135)
n.
The act of declining or refusing; as, the declinature of an office.


word: Decline
definition:
Decline

De*cline"
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Declined (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Declining.]
[OE. declinen to bend down, lower, sink, decline (a noun), F. décliner to decline, refuse, fr. L. declinare to turn aside, inflect (a part of speech), avoid; de- + clinare to incline; akin to E. lean. See Lean, v. i.]
1.
To bend, or lean downward; to take a downward direction; to bend over or hang down, as from weakness, weariness, despondency, etc.; to condescend.
declining
Shak.

He . . . would decline even to the lowest of his family.
Lady Hutchinson.

Disdaining to decline,
Slowly he falls, amidst triumphant cries.
Byron.

The ground at length became broken and declined rapidly.
Sir W. Scott.

2.
To tend or draw towards a close, decay, or extinction; to tend to a less perfect state; to become diminished or impaired; to fail; to sink; to diminish; to lessen; as, the day declines; virtue declines; religion declines; business declines.

That empire must decline
Whose chief support and sinews are of coin.
Waller.

And presume to know . . . 
Who thrives, and who declines.
Shak.

3.
To turn or bend aside; to deviate; to stray; to withdraw; as, a line that declines from straightness; conduct that declines from sound morals.

Yet do I not decline from thy testimonies.
Ps. cxix. 157.

4.
To turn away; to shun; to refuse; -- the opposite of accept or consent; as, he declined, upon principle.


word: Decline₂
definition:
Decline

De*cline"
v. t.
1.
To bend downward; to bring down; to depress; to cause to bend, or fall.

In melancholy deep, with head declined.
Thomson.

And now fair Phoebus gan decline in haste
His weary wagon to the western vale.
Spenser.

2.
To cause to decrease or diminish.
[Obs.]
declined
Beau. & Fl.

He knoweth his error, but will not seek to decline it.
Burton.

3.
To put or turn aside; to turn off or away from; to refuse to undertake or comply with; reject; to shun; to avoid; as, to decline an offer; to decline a contest; he declined any participation with them.

Could I
Decline this dreadful hour?
Massinger.

4.
(Gram.)
To inflect, or rehearse in order the changes of grammatical form of; as, to decline a noun or an adjective.

&hand_; Now restricted to such words as have case inflections; but formerly it was applied both to declension and conjugation.

After the first declining of a noun and a verb.
Ascham.

5.
To run through from first to last; to repeat like a schoolboy declining a noun.
[R.]
Shak.


word: Decline₃
definition:
Decline

De*cline"
(?)
n.
[F. déclin. See Decline, v. i.]
1.
A falling off; a tendency to a worse state; diminution or decay; deterioration; also, the period when a thing is tending toward extinction or a less perfect state; as, the decline of life; the decline of strength; the decline of virtue and religion.

Their fathers lived in the decline of literature.
Swift.

2.
(Med.)
That period of a disorder or paroxysm when the symptoms begin to abate in violence; as, the decline of a fever.

3.
A gradual sinking and wasting away of the physical faculties; any wasting disease, esp. pulmonary consumption; as, to die of a decline.
Dunglison.


word: declining
definition:
declining

declining
adj.
1.
decreasing; as, steadily declining incomes.

Syn. -- down(prenominal).

2.
going from better to worse.

Syn. -- deteriorating, failing, regressing, retrograde, retrogressive.

3.
becoming less or smaller; as, declining powers of body and mind.  Opposite of increasing.

Syn. -- eroding.

4.
drawing to an end; waning; as, his declining years.
[prenominal]


word: Declinometer
definition:
Declinometer

Dec`li*nom"e*ter
(?)
n.
[Decline + -meter.]
(Physics)
An instrument for measuring the declination of the magnetic needle.


word: Declivous
definition:
Declivous

Declivitous

{ De*cliv"i*tous (?), De*cli"vous (?), }
a.
Descending gradually; moderately steep; sloping; downhill.


word: Declivity
definition:
Declivity

De*cliv"i*ty
(?)
n.
pl. Declivities (#).
[L. declivitas, fr. declivis sloping, downhill; de + clivus a slope, a hill; akin to clinare to incline: cf. F. déclivité. See Decline.]
1.
Deviation from a horizontal line; gradual descent of surface; inclination downward; slope; -- opposed to acclivity, or ascent; the same slope, considered as descending, being a declivity, which, considered as ascending, is an acclivity.

2.
A descending surface; a sloping place.

Commodious declivities and channels for the passage of the waters.
Derham.


word: Decoct
definition:
Decoct

De*coct"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decocted; p. pr. & vb. n. Decocting.]
[L. decoctus, p. p. of decoquere to boil down; de- + coquere to cook, boil. See Cook to decoct.]
1.
To prepare by boiling; to digest in hot or boiling water; to extract the strength or flavor of by boiling; to make an infusion of.

2.
To prepare by the heat of the stomach for assimilation; to digest; to concoct.

3.
To warm, strengthen, or invigorate, as if by boiling.
[R.]
Decoct
Shak.


word: Decoction
definition:
Decoction

De*coc"tion
(?)
n.
[F. décoction, L. decoctio.]
1.
The act or process of boiling anything in a watery fluid to extract its virtues.

In decoction . . . it either purgeth at the top or settleth at the bottom.
Bacon.

2.
An extract got from a body by boiling it in water.

If the plant be boiled in water, the strained liquor is called the decoction of the plant.
Arbuthnot.

In pharmacy decoction is opposed to infusion, where there is merely steeping.
Latham.


word: decode
definition:
decode

decode
v. t.
to convert from a coded form into the original form; -- of communications.  Inverse of encode.

Syn. -- decrypt, decipher[WE1].


word: Decoherer
definition:
Decoherer

De`co*her"er
(dē`ko̝*hēr"ẽr)
n.
[Pref. de- + coherer.]
(Elec.)
A device for restoring a coherer to its normal condition after it has been affected by an electric wave, a process usually accomplished by some method of tapping or shaking, or by rotation of the coherer.


word: decollate
definition:
decollate

de*col"late
(de̝*k&obreve_;l"lāt)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decollated; p. pr. & vb. n. Decollating.]
[L. decollatus, p. p. of decollare to behead; de- + collum neck.]
To sever from the neck; to behead; to decapitate.

The decollated head of St. John the Baptist.
Burke.


word: Decollated
definition:
Decollated

De*col"la*ted
(?)
a.
(Zool.)
Decapitated; worn or cast off in the process of growth, as the apex of certain univalve shells.


word: Decollation
definition:
Decollation

De`col*la"tion
(?)
n.
[L. decollatio: cf. F. décollation.]
1.
The act of beheading or state of one beheaded; -- especially used of the execution of St. John the Baptist.

2.
A painting representing the beheading of a saint or martyr, esp. of St. John the Baptist.


word: Decolletage
definition:
Decolletage

Dé`col`le*tage"
(dā`ko̝`l'*tȧzh)
n.
[F. See Décolleté.]
(Costume)
1.
The upper border or part of a low-cut (i.e., décolleté) dress.

2.
The exposed upper parts of the breasts of a woman wearing a low-cut dress; as, transfixed by her stunning decolletage.


word: Decollete
definition:
Decollete

Dé`col`le*té"
(da̝`k&obreve_;l`le*ta̝")
a.
[F., p. p. of décolleter to bare the neck and shoulders; dé- + collet collar, fr. L. collum neck.]
1.
Leaving the neck and shoulders uncovered; cut low in the neck, or low-necked, as a dress.

2.
Wearing a décolleté gown.


word: Decolling
definition:
Decolling

De*col"ling
(?)
n.
Beheading.
[R.]

By a speedy dethroning and decolling of the king.
Parliamentary History (1648).


word: decolonization
definition:
decolonization

decolonization
n.
1.
the action of changing from colonial to independent status.

Syn. -- decolonisation.


word: decolonize
definition:
decolonize

decolonize
v. t.
to grant independence to (a former colony).
[Also spelled decolonise.]


word: decolonize₂
definition:
decolonize

decolonize
v. i.
to release one's colonies and free them to become independednt nations; -- of nations.
[Also spelled decolonise.]


word: Decolor
definition:
Decolor

De*col"or
(?)
v. t.
[Cf. F. décolorer, L. decolorare.  Cf. Discolor.]
To deprive of color; to bleach.


word: Decolorant
definition:
Decolorant

De*col"or*ant
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. décolorant, p. pr.]
A substance which removes color, or bleaches.


word: Decoloration
definition:
Decoloration

De*col`or*a"tion
(de̝*kŭl`ẽr*ā"shŭn)
n.
[L. decoloratio: cf. F. décoloration.]
The removal or absence of color.
Ferrand.


word: Decolorize
definition:
Decolorize

De*col"or*ize
(?)
v. t.
To deprive of color; to whiten.
Turner.
De*col`or*i*za"tion (#), n.


word: Decomplex
definition:
Decomplex

De"com*plex`
(?)
a.
[Pref. de- (intens.) + complex.]
Repeatedly compound; made up of complex constituents.


word: Decompose
definition:
Decompose

De`com*pose"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decomposed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Decomposing.]
[Cf. F. décomposer.  Cf. Discompose.]
To separate the constituent parts of; to resolve into original elements; to set free from previously existing forms of chemical combination; to bring to dissolution; to rot or decay.


word: Decompose₂
definition:
Decompose

De`com*pose"
v. i.
To become resolved or returned from existing combinations; to undergo dissolution; to decay; to rot.


word: Decomposed
definition:
Decomposed

De`com*posed"
(?)
a.
(Zool.)
Separated or broken up; -- said of the crest of birds when the feathers are divergent.


word: Decomposite
definition:
Decomposite

De`com*pos"ite
(?)
a.
[Pref. de- (intens.) + composite.]
1.
Compounded more than once; compounded with things already composite.

2.
(Bot.)
See Decompound, a., 2.


word: Decomposite₂
definition:
Decomposite

De`com*pos"ite
n.
Anything decompounded.

Decomposites of three metals or more.
Bacon.


word: Decomposition
definition:
Decomposition

De*com`po*si"tion
(?)
n.
[Pref. de- (in sense 3 intensive) + composition: cf. F. décomposition.  Cf. Decomposition.]
1.
The act or process of resolving the constituent parts of a compound body or substance into its elementary parts; separation into constituent part; analysis; the decay or dissolution consequent on the removal or alteration of some of the ingredients of a compound; disintegration; as, the decomposition of wood, rocks, etc.

2.
The state of being reduced into original elements.

3.
Repeated composition; a combination of compounds.
[Obs.]

Decomposition of forces. Same as Resolution of forces, under Resolution. -- Decomposition of light, the division of light into the prismatic colors.


word: Decompound
definition:
Decompound

De`com*pound"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decompounded; p. pr. & vb. n. Decompounding.]
[Pref. de- (intens. in sense 1) + compound, v. t.]
1.
To compound or mix with that is already compound; to compound a second time.

2.
To reduce to constituent parts; to decompose.

It divides and decompounds objects into . . . parts.
Hazlitt.


word: Decompound₂
definition:
Decompound

De`com*pound"
a.
[Pref. de- (intens.) + compound, a.]
1.
Compound of what is already compounded; compounded a second time.

2.
(Bot.)
Several times compounded or divided, as a leaf or stem; decomposite.


word: decompressing
definition:
decompressing

decompressing
n.
1.
the process of experiencing decompression; the act or process of relieving or reducing pressure.

Syn. -- decompression.


word: decompression
definition:
decompression

decompression
n.
1.
the process of experiencing decompression; the act or process of relieving or reducing pressure.

Syn. -- decompressing.

2.
the reduction of atmospheric pressure experienced by divers rising from deep water to the surface, thus reducing the concentration of dissolved atmospheric gases in the blood; -- especially applied to a gradual reduction of such pressure.

3.
the process, analogous to sense 2, undergone by divers in a decompression chamber, in which an artificially high atmospheric pressure is gradually lowered to normal pressure.

4.
a return to a normal, more relaxed state after a period of intense stress, psychological pressure, or urgent activity; -- of people.

5.
(Computers)
the process of converting digitally encoded data from a more compact (compressed) form to its original, larger size.
The process of compression and decompression may completely recover all of the original data (called lossless compression), or may lose some of the original data in order to achieve higher degress of compression (lossy compression).  The latter is used especially with images or video data, which may be of very large size relative to text, and for which small changes may be imperceptible to the human eye.  The JPEG data compression format is a lossy format.


word: Deconsecrate
definition:
Deconsecrate

De*con"se*crate
(de̝*k&obreve_;n"se̝*krāt)
v. t.
To deprive of sacredness; to secularize.
De*con`se*cra"tion (#), n.


word: deconstruct
definition:
deconstruct

de`con*struct"
(de̝`kŭn*strŭkt")
v. t.
To interpret (a text or an artwork) by the method of deconstruction.


word: deconstruction
definition:
deconstruction

de`con*struc"tion
(de̝`kŭn*strŭk"shŭn)
n.
A philosophical theory of criticism (usually of literature or film) that seeks to expose deep-seated contradictions in a work by delving below its surface meaning.  This method questions the ability of language to represent a fixed reality, and proposes that a text has no stable meaning because words only refer to other words, that metaphysical or ethnocentric assumptions about the meaning of words must be questioned, and words may be redefined in new contexts and new, equally valid and even contradictory meanings may be found.  Such new interpretations may be based on the philosophical, political, or social implications of the words of a text, rather than solely on attempts to determine the author's intentions.
RHUD
MW10

Syn. -- deconstructionism.

2.
the process of criticising or interpreting a text by the method of deconstruction{1}.


word: deconstructionism
definition:
deconstructionism

de`con*struc"tion*ism
(de̝`kŭn*strŭk"shŭn*ĭz'm)
n.
Same as decontruction{1}.

Syn. -- deconstruction.


word: deconstructionist
definition:
deconstructionist

de`con*struc"tion*ist
(de̝`kŭn*strŭk"shŭn*ĭst)
adj.
Of or pertaining to deconstruction or deconstructionism; as, deconstructionist criticism.


word: decontaminate
definition:
decontaminate

de`con*tam"i*nate
(de̝`kŭn*tăm"ĭ*nāt)
v. t.
To remove contamination or contaminants from, by a cleansing process; -- usually used of radioactive, infectious, or toxic materials; as, to decontaminate clothing worn by persons with infective disease; decontaminate an area of PCB's after explosion of a transformer.


word: decontamination
definition:
decontamination

decontamination
n.
The removal of contaminants; as, the decontamination of a room after a spill of radioactive materials.


word: decor
definition:
decor

decor

decor, décor
n.
[Fr. décor, fr. décorer to decorate, fr. L decorare.  See decorate.]
1.
the layout, style, and furnishings of a livable interior.

Syn. -- interior decoration.

2.
Decoration{2}.

3.
(Theater)
A stage setting.
MW10


word: Decorament
definition:
Decorament

Dec"o*ra*ment
(dĕk"o̝*rȧ*ment)
n.
[L. decoramentum. See Decorate, v. t.]
Ornament.
[Obs.]
Bailey.


word: Decorate
definition:
Decorate

Dec"o*rate
(dĕk"o̝*rāt)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decorated (dĕk"o̝*rā`tĕd); p. pr. & vb. n. Decorating (dĕk"o̝*rā`tĭng).]
[L. decoratus, p. p. of decorare, fr. decus ornament; akin to decere to be becoming. See Decent.]
To deck with that which is becoming, ornamental, or honorary; to adorn; to beautify; to embellish; as, to decorate the person; to decorate an edifice; to decorate a lawn with flowers; to decorate the mind with moral beauties; to decorate a hero with honors.

Her fat neck was ornamented with jewels, rich bracelets decorated her arms.
Thackeray.
Decorated style (Arch.), a name given by some writers to the perfected English Gothic architecture; it may be considered as having flourished from about a. d. 1300 to a. d. 1375.


word: decorated
definition:
decorated

decorated
adj.
having decorations.
beaded, beady, bejeweled, bejewelled, bespangled, gemmed, jeweled, jewelled, sequined, spangled, spangly
bedaubed
bespectacled, monocled, spectacled
braided
brocaded, embossed, raised
buttony
carbuncled
champleve, cloisonne, enameled
crested, plumed  having a decorative plume)
crested, top-knotted, topknotted, tufted
crested
embellished, ornamented, ornate
embroidered
encircled, ringed, wreathed
fancied up, gussied, gussied up, tricked out
feathery, feathered, plumy
frilled, frilly, ruffled
fringed
gilt-edged
inflamed
inlaid
inwrought
laced
mosaic, tessellated
paneled, wainscoted
studded
tapestried
tasseled, tasselled
tufted
clinquant, tinseled, tinselly
tricked-out
Also See: clothed, fancy.
unadorned

Syn. -- adorned.


word: decoration
definition:
decoration

dec`o*ra"tion
(dĕk`o̝*rā"shŭn)
n.
[LL. decoratio: cf. F. décoration.]
1.
The act of adorning, embellishing, or honoring; ornamentation.

2.
That which adorns, enriches, or beautifies; something added by way of embellishment; ornament.

The hall was celebrated for . . . the richness of its decoration.
Motley.

3.
Specifically, any mark of honor to be worn upon the person, as a medal, cross, or ribbon of an order of knighthood, bestowed for services in war, great achievements in literature, art, etc.


word: Decoration Day
definition:
Decoration Day

Decoration Day
a day, May 30, originally appointed for decorating with flowers the graves of the Union soldiers and sailors, who fell in the Civil War in the United States; -- now called Memorial Day, and established as the last Monday in May, and designated as a day for commemorating those who died in all wars of the United States.
[U. S.]


word: Decorative
definition:
Decorative

Dec"o*ra*tive
(dĕk"o̝*rȧ*tĭv or dĕk"o̝*ra̝*tĭv)
a.
[Cf. F. décoratif.]
Suited to decorate or embellish; adorning.
Dec"o*ra*tive*ness, n.

Decorative art, fine art which has for its end ornamentation, rather than the representation of objects or events.


word: Decorator
definition:
Decorator

Dec"o*ra`tor
(dĕk"o̝*rā"tẽr)
n.
[Cf. F. décorateur.]
One who decorates, adorns, or embellishes; specifically, an artisan whose business is the decoration of houses, esp. their interior decoration.


word: decore
definition:
decore

de*core"
(de̝*k&omacrr")
v. t.
[Cf. F. décorer. See Decorate.]
To decorate; to beautify.
[Obs.]

To decore and beautify the house of God.
E. Hall.


word: Decorous
definition:
Decorous

Dec"or*ous
(dĕk"o̝r*ŭs or de̝*k&omacr"rŭs; 277)
a.
[L. dec&omacrrus, fr. decor comeliness, beauty; akin to decere. See Decent, and cf. Decorum.]
Suitable to a character, or to the time, place, and occasion; marked with decorum; becoming; proper; seemly; befitting; as, a decorous speech; decorous behavior; a decorous dress for a judge.

A decorous pretext the war.
Motley.


word: Decorticate
definition:
Decorticate

De*cor"ti*cate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decorticated; p. pr. & vb. n. Decorticating.]
[L. decorticatus, p. p. of decorticare to bark; de- + cortex bark.]
To divest of the bark, husk, or exterior coating; to husk; to peel; to hull.
decorticated
Arbuthnot.


word: Decortication
definition:
Decortication

De*cor`ti*ca"tion
(?)
n.
[L. decorticatio: cf. F. décortication.]
The act of stripping off the bark, rind, hull, or outer coat.


word: Decorticator
definition:
Decorticator

De*cor"ti*ca`tor
(?)
n.
A machine for decorticating wood, hulling grain, etc.; also, an instrument for removing surplus bark or moss from fruit trees.


word: Decorum
definition:
Decorum

De*cor"um
(?)
n.
[L. dec&omacrrum, fr. dec&omacrrus. See Decorous.]
Propriety of manner or conduct; grace arising from suitableness of speech and behavior to one's own character, or to the place and occasion; decency of conduct; seemliness; that which is seemly or suitable.

Negligent of the duties and decorums of his station.
Hallam.

If your master
Would have a queen his beggar, you must tell him,
That majesty, to keep decorum, must
No less beg than a kingdom.
Shak.


word: Decoy
definition:
Decoy

De*coy"
(de̝*koi")
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decoyed (-koid"); p. pr. & vb. n. Decoying.]
[Pref. de- + coy; orig., to quiet, soothe, caress, entice. See Coy.]
To lead into danger by artifice; to lure into a net or snare; to entrap; to insnare; to allure; to entice; as, to decoy troops into an ambush; to decoy ducks into a net.

Did to a lonely cot his steps decoy.
Thomson.

E'en while fashion's brightest arts decoy,
The heart, distrusting, asks if this be joy.
Goldsmith.


word: Decoy₂
definition:
Decoy

De*coy"
n.
1.
Anything intended to lead into a snare; a lure that deceives and misleads into danger, or into the power of an enemy; a bait.

2.
A fowl, or the likeness of one, used by sportsmen to entice other fowl into a net or within shot.

3.
A place into which wild fowl, esp. ducks, are enticed in order to take or shoot them.

4.
A person employed by officers of justice, or parties exposed to injury, to induce a suspected person to commit an offense under circumstances that will lead to his detection.


word: Decoy-duck
definition:
Decoy-duck

De*coy"-duck`
(?)
n.
A duck used to lure wild ducks into a decoy; hence, a person employed to lure others into danger.
Beau. & Fl.


word: Decrease
definition:
Decrease

De*crease"
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Decreased (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Decreasing.]
[OE. decrecen, fr. OF. decreistre, F. décroître, or from the OF. noun (see Decrease, n.), fr. L. decrescere to grow less; de + crescere to grow. See Crescent, and cf. Increase.]
To grow less, -- opposed to increase; to be diminished gradually, in size, degree, number, duration, etc., or in strength, quality, or excellence; as, they days decrease in length from June to December.

He must increase, but I must decrease.
John iii. 30.
The olive leaf, which certainly them told
The flood decreased.
Drayton.

Crete's ample fields diminish to our eye;
Before the Boreal blasts the vessels fly.
Pope.


word: Decrease₂
definition:
Decrease

De*crease"
v. t.
To cause to grow less; to diminish gradually; as, extravagance decreases one's means.

That might decrease their present store.
Prior.


word: Decrease₃
definition:
Decrease

De*crease"
n.
[OE. decrees, OF. decreis, fr. decreistre. See Decrease, v.]
1.
A becoming less; gradual diminution; decay; as, a decrease of revenue or of strength.

2.
The wane of the moon.
Bacon.


word: decreased
definition:
decreased

decreased
adj.
made less in size or amount or degree.  Opposite of increased.
attenuate, attenuated, faded, weakened
belittled, diminished, small
cut, cut-rate
diminished, lessened
minimized
remittent
attenuated

Syn. -- reduced.


word: Decreaseless
definition:
Decreaseless

De*crease"less
a.
Suffering no decrease.
[R.]

It [the river] flows and flows, and yet will flow,
Volume decreaseless to the final hour.
A. Seward.


word: Decreasing
definition:
Decreasing

De*creas"ing
a.
Becoming less and less; diminishing.
De*creas"ing*ly, adv.

Decreasing series (Math.), a series in which each term is numerically smaller than the preceding term.


word: Decree
definition:
Decree

De*cree"
(?)
n.
[OE. decre, F. décret, fr. L. decretum, neut. decretus, p. p. of decernere to decide; de- + cernere to decide. See Certain, and cf. Decreet, Decretal.]
1.
An order from one having authority, deciding what is to be done by a subordinate; also, a determination by one having power, deciding what is to be done or to take place; edict, law; authoritative ru_;_; decision.
decrees
Sh_;_;_;.

There went out a decree from Cæsar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.
Luke ii. 1.

Poor hand, why quiverest thou at this decree?
Shak.

2.
(Law)
(a)
A decision, order, or sentence, given in a cause by a court of equity or admiralty.
(b)
A determination or judgment of an umpire on a case submitted to him.
Brande.

3.
(Eccl.)
An edict or law made by a council for regulating any business within their jurisdiction; as, the decrees of ecclesiastical councils.


word: Decree₂
definition:
Decree

De*cree"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decreed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Decreeing.]
1.
To determine judicially by authority, or by decree; to constitute by edict; to appoint by decree or law; to determine; to order; to ordain; as, a court decrees a restoration of property.

Thou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto thee.
Job xxii. 28.

2.
To ordain by fate.


word: Decree₃
definition:
Decree

De*cree"
v. i.
To make decrees; -- used absolutely.

Father eternal! thine is to decree;
Mine, both in heaven and earth to do thy will.
Milton.


word: Decreet
definition:
Decreet

De*creet"
(?)
n.
[Cf. Decree.]
(Scots Law)
The final judgment of the Court of Session, or of an inferior court, by which the question at issue is decided.


word: Decrement
definition:
Decrement

Dec"re*ment
(?)
n.
[L. decrementum, fr. decrescere. See Decrease.]
1.
The state of becoming gradually less; decrease; diminution; waste; loss.

Twit me with the decrements of my pendants.
Ford.

Rocks, mountains, and the other elevations of the earth suffer a continual decrement.
Woodward.

2.
The quantity lost by gradual diminution or waste; -- opposed to increment.

3.
(Crystallog.)
A name given by Haüy to the successive diminution of the layers of molecules, applied to the faces of the primitive form, by which he supposed the secondary forms to be produced.

4.
(Math.)
The quantity by which a variable is diminished.

Equal decrement of life. (a) The decrease of life in a group of persons in which the assumed law of mortality is such that of a given large number of persons, all being now of the same age, an equal number shall die each consecutive year. (b) The decrease of life in a group of persons in which the assumed law of mortality is such that the ratio of those dying in a year to those living through the year is constant, being independent of the age of the persons.


word: Decrepit
definition:
Decrepit

De*crep"it
(?)
a.
[L. decrepitus, perhaps orig., noised out, noiseless, applied to old people, who creep about quietly; de- + crepare to make a noise, rattle: cf. F. décrépit. See Crepitate.]
Broken down with age; wasted and enfeebled by the infirmities of old age; feeble; worn out.
decrepit
Milton.

Already decrepit with premature old age.
Motley.

&hand_; Sometimes incorrectly written decrepid.


word: Decrepitate
definition:
Decrepitate

De*crep"i*tate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decrepitated; p. pr. & vb. n. Decrepitating.]
[Cf. F. décrépiter.]
To roast or calcine so as to cause a crackling noise; as, to decrepitate salt.


word: Decrepitation
definition:
Decrepitation

De*crep`i*ta"tion
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. décrépitation.]
The act of decrepitating; a crackling noise, such as salt makes when roasting.


word: Decrepitude
definition:
Decrepitude

De*crep"i*tude
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. décrépitude.]
The broken state produced by decay and the infirmities of age; infirm old age.


word: Decrescendo
definition:
Decrescendo

De`cres*cen"do
(?)
a. & adv.
[It.]
(Mus.)
With decreasing volume of sound; -- a direction to performers, either written upon the staff (abbreviated Dec., or Decresc.), or indicated by the sign.


word: Decrescent
definition:
Decrescent

De*cres"cent
(?)
a.
[L. decrescens, p. pr. of decrescere. See Decrease.]
Becoming less by gradual diminution; decreasing; as, a decrescent moon.


word: Decrescent₂
definition:
Decrescent

De*cres"cent
n.
(Her.)
A crescent with the horns directed towards the sinister.
Cussans.


word: Decretal
definition:
Decretal

De*cre"tal
(?)
a.
[L. decretalis, fr. decretum. See Decree.]
Appertaining to a decree; containing a decree; as, a decretal epistle.
Ayliffe.


word: Decretal₂
definition:
Decretal

De*cre"tal
n.
[LL. decretale, neut. of L. decretalis. See Decretal, a.]
1.
(R. C. Ch.)
An authoritative order or decree; especially, a letter of the pope, determining some point or question in ecclesiastical law. The decretals form the second part of the canon law.

2.
(Canon Law)
The collection of ecclesiastical decrees and decisions made, by order of Gregory IX., in 1234, by St. Raymond of Pennafort.


word: Decretion
definition:
Decretion

De*cre"tion
(?)
n.
[From L. decrescere, decretum. See Decrease.]
A decrease.
[Obs.]
Pearson.


word: Decretist
definition:
Decretist

De*cre"tist
(?)
n.
[LL. decretista, fr. decretum: cf. F. décrétiste. See Decree, n.]
One who studies, or professes the knowledge of, the decretals.


word: Decretive
definition:
Decretive

De*cre"tive
(?)
a.
[From L. decretum. See Decree, n.]
Having the force of a decree; determining.

The will of God is either decretive or perceptive.
Bates.


word: Decretory
definition:
Decretory

Dec"re*to*ry
(?)
a.
[L. decretorius, from decretum. See Decree.]
1.
Established by a decree; definitive; settled.

The decretory rigors of a condemning sentence.
South.

2.
Serving to determine; critical.
decretory
Sir T. Browne.


word: Decrew
definition:
Decrew

De*crew"
(?)
v. i.
[F. décrue, n., decrease, and décru, p. p. of décroître. See Decrease, and cf. Accrue.]
To decrease.
[Obs.]
Spenser.


word: Decrial
definition:
Decrial

De*cri"al
(?)
n.
[See Decry.]
A crying down; a clamorous censure; condemnation by censure.


word: Decry
definition:
Decry

De*cry"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decried (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Decrying.]
[F. décrier, OF. descrier; pref. des- (L. dis-) + crier to cry. See Cry, and cf. Descry.]
To cry down; to censure as faulty, mean, or worthless; to clamor against; to blame clamorously; to discredit; to disparage.

For small errors they whole plays decry.
Dryden.

Measures which are extolled by one half of the kingdom are naturally decried by the other.
Addison.


word: decrypt
definition:
decrypt

decrypt
v.
to convert from a coded form into the original; -- of communications.  Inverse of encrypt.

Syn. -- decode, decipher[WE1].


word: Decubation
definition:
Decubation

Dec`u*ba"tion
(?)
n.
[From L. decubare; de- + cubare. See Decumbent.]
Act of lying down; decumbence.
[Obs.]
Evelyn.


word: Decubitus
definition:
Decubitus

De*cu"bi*tus
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. L. de- + cubare, to lie down: cf. F. décubitus.]
(Med.)
An attitude assumed in lying down; as, the dorsal decubitus.


word: Deculassment
definition:
Deculassment

Deculassement

&VerbarDé`cu`lasse`ment" (?), n. [F.] Also, sometimes, Anglicized Dec`u*lass"ment (_;).
(Ordnance)
An accidental blowing off of, or other serious damage to, the breechblock of a gun; also, a removal of the breechblock for the purpose of disabling the gun.


word: Decuman
definition:
Decuman

Dec"u*man
(?)
a.
[L. decumanus of the tenth, and by metonymy, large, fr. decem ten.]
Large; chief; -- applied to an extraordinary billow, supposed by some to be every tenth in order. [R.] Also used substantively.
decuman
Gauden.
decuman
Lowell.


word: decumary
definition:
decumary

decumary
n.
a woody climber of southeastern US (Decumaria barbara) having white flowers in compound terminal clusters.

Syn. -- Decumaria barbata, Decumaria barbara.


word: Decumbency
definition:
Decumbency

Decumbence

{ De*cum"bence (?), De*cum"ben*cy (?), }
n.
The act or posture of lying down.

The ancient manner of decumbency.
Sir T. Browne.


word: Decumbent
definition:
Decumbent

De*cum"bent
(?)
a.
[L. decumbens, -entis, p. pr. of decumbere; de- + cumbere (only in comp.), cubare to lie down.]
1.
Lying down; prostrate; recumbent.

The decumbent portraiture of a woman.
Ashmole.

2.
(Bot.)
Reclining on the ground, as if too weak to stand, and tending to rise at the summit or apex; as, a decumbent stem.
Gray.


word: Decumbiture
definition:
Decumbiture

De*cum"bi*ture
(?; 135)
n.
1.
Confinement to a sick bed, or time of taking to one's bed from sickness.
Boyle.

2.
(Astrol.)
Aspect of the heavens at the time of taking to one's sick bed, by which the prognostics of recovery or death were made.


word: Decuple₃
definition:
Decuple

Dec"u*ple
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decupled (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Decupling (?).]
To make tenfold; to multiply by ten.
[R.]


word: Decurion
definition:
Decurion

De*cu"ri*on
(?)
n.
[L. decurio, decurionis, fr. decuria a squad of ten, fr. decem ten.]
(Rom. Antiq.)
A head or chief over ten; especially, an officer who commanded a division of ten soldiers.


word: Decurrent
definition:
Decurrent

De*cur"rent
(?)
a.
[L. decurrens, -entis, p. pr. of decurrere to run down; de- + currere to run: cf. F. décurrent.]
(Bot.)
Extending downward; -- said of a leaf whose base extends downward and forms a wing along the stem.
De*cur"rent*ly, adv.


word: Decursion
definition:
Decursion

De*cur"sion
(?)
n.
[L. decursio, fr. decurrere. See Decurrent.]
A flowing; also, a hostile incursion.
[Obs.]
Sir M. Hale.


word: Decursively
definition:
Decursively

De*cur"sive*ly
adv.
In a decursive manner.

Decursively pinnate (Bot.), having the leaflets decurrent, or running along the petiole; -- said of a leaf.


word: Decury
definition:
Decury

Dec"u*ry
(?)
n.
pl. Decuries (#).
[L. decuria, fr. decem ten.]
A set or squad of ten men under a decurion.
Sir W. Raleigh.


word: Decussate
definition:
Decussate

De*cus"sate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Decussated; p. pr. & vb. n. Decussating.]
[L. decussatus, p. p. of decussare to cross like an X, fr. decussis (orig. equiv. to decem asses) the number ten, which the Romans represented by X.]
To cross at an acute angle; to cut or divide in the form of X; to intersect; -- said of lines in geometrical figures, rays of light, nerves, etc.


word: Decussated
definition:
Decussated

Decussate

{ De*cus"sate (?), De*cus"sa*ted (?), }
a.
1.
Crossed; intersected.

2.
(Bot.)
Growing in pairs, each of which is at right angles to the next pair above or below; as, decussated leaves or branches.

3.
(Rhet.)
Consisting of two rising and two falling clauses, placed in alternate opposition to each other; as, a decussated period.


word: Decussation
definition:
Decussation

De`cus*sa"tion
(?)
n.
[L. decussatio.]
Act of crossing at an acute angle, or state of being thus crossed; an intersection in the form of an X; as, the decussation of lines, nerves, etc.


word: Decyl
definition:
Decyl

De"cyl
(?)
n.
[L. decem ten + -yl.]
(Chem.)
A hydrocarbon radical, C10H21., never existing alone, but regarded as the characteristic constituent of a number of compounds of the paraffin series.


word: Dedans
definition:
Dedans

De*dans"
(?)
n.
[F.]
(Court Tennis)
A division, at one end of a tennis court, for spectators.


word: Dedecorate
definition:
Dedecorate

De*dec"o*rate
(?)
v. t.
[L. dedecoratus, p. p. of dedecorare to disgrace. See Decorate.]
To bring to shame; to disgrace.
[Obs.]
Bailey.


word: Dedecorous
definition:
Dedecorous

De*dec"o*rous
(?)
a.
[L. dedecorus. See Decorous.]
Disgraceful; unbecoming.
[R.]
Bailey.


word: Dedicate
definition:
Dedicate

Ded"i*cate
(?)
p. a.
[L. dedicatus, p. p. of dedicare to affirm, to dedicate; de- + dicare to declare, dedicate; akin to dicere to say. See Diction.]
Dedicated; set apart; devoted; consecrated.
Dedicate
Shak.


word: Dedicate₂
definition:
Dedicate

Ded"i*cate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Dedicated; p. pr. & vb. n. Dedicating.]
1.
To set apart and consecrate, as to a divinity, or for sacred uses; to devote formally and solemnly; as, to dedicate vessels, treasures, a temple, or a church, to a religious use.

Vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, . . . which also king David did dedicate unto the Lord.
2 Sam. viii. 10, 11.

We have come to dedicate a portion of that field as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live.  . . .  But in a larger sense we can not dedicate, we can not consecrate, we can not hallow this ground.
A. Lincoln.

2.
To devote, set apart, or give up, as one's self, to a duty or service.

The profession of a soldier, to which he had dedicated himself.
Clarendon.

3.
To inscribe or address, as to a patron.

He complied ten elegant books, and dedicated them to the Lord Burghley.
Peacham.


word: dedicated
definition:
dedicated

dedicated
adj.
1.
wholly committed to a purpose or cause; as, a dedicated musician.

Syn. -- devoted.

2.
zealous in loyalty or affection; as, dedicated nurses.

Syn. -- devoted.

3.
set apart especially for a higher purpose; as, a life dedicated to science.
consecrated (vs. desecrated), consecrate

Syn. -- dedicated to(predicate), devoted to(predicate).


word: Dedication
definition:
Dedication

Ded`i*ca"tion
(?)
n.
[L. dedicatio.]
1.
The act of setting apart or consecrating to a divine Being, or to a sacred use, often with religious solemnities; solemn appropriation; as, the dedication of Solomon's temple.

2.
A devoting or setting aside for any particular purpose; as, a dedication of lands to public use.

3.
An address to a patron or friend, prefixed to a book, testifying respect, and often recommending the work to his special protection and favor.


word: Dedicator
definition:
Dedicator

Ded"i*ca`tor
(?)
n.
[L.: cf. F. dédicateur.]
One who dedicates; more especially, one who inscribes a book to the favor of a patron, or to one whom he desires to compliment.


word: Dedicatory
definition:
Dedicatory

Ded"i*ca*to*ry
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. dédicatoire.]
Constituting or serving as a dedication; complimental.
dedicatory
Dryden.


word: Dedimus
definition:
Dedimus

Ded"i*mus
(?)
n.
[L. dedimus we have given, fr. dare to give. So called because the writ began, Dedimus potestatem, etc.]
(Law)
A writ to commission private persons to do some act in place of a judge, as to examine a witness, etc.
Bouvier.


word: Dedition
definition:
Dedition

De*di"tion
(?)
n.
[L. deditio, fr. dedere to give away, surrender; de- + dare to give.]
The act of yielding; surrender.
[R.]
Sir M. Hale.


word: Dedolent
definition:
Dedolent

Ded"o*lent
(?)
a.
[L. dedolens, p. pr. of dedolere to give over grieving; de- + dolere to grieve.]
Feeling no compunction; apathetic.
[R.]
Hallywell.


word: Deduce
definition:
Deduce

De*duce"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deduced (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deducing.]
[L. deducere; de- + ducere to lead, draw. See Duke, and cf. Deduct.]
1.
To lead forth.
[A Latinism]

He should hither deduce a colony.
Selden.

2.
To take away; to deduct; to subtract; as, to deduce a part from the whole.
[Obs.]
B. Jonson.

3.
To derive or draw; to derive by logical process; to obtain or arrive at as the result of reasoning; to gather, as a truth or opinion, from what precedes or from premises; to infer; -- with from or out of.

O goddess, say, shall I deduce my rhymes
From the dire nation in its early times?
Pope.

Reasoning is nothing but the faculty of deducing unknown truths from principles already known.
Locke.

See what regard will be paid to the pedigree which deduces your descent from kings and conquerors.
Sir W. Scott.


word: Deducible
definition:
Deducible

De*du"ci*ble
(?)
a.
1.
Capable of being deduced or inferred; derivable by reasoning, as a result or consequence.

All properties of a triangle depend on, and are deducible from, the complex idea of three lines including a space.
Locke.

2.
Capable of being brought down.
[Obs.]

As if God [were] deducible to human imbecility.
State Trials (1649).


word: Deduct
definition:
Deduct

De*duct"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deducted; p. pr. & vb. n. Deducting.]
[L. deductus, p. p. of deducere to deduct. See Deduce.]
1.
To lead forth or out.
[Obs.]

A people deducted out of the city of Philippos.
Udall.

2.
To take away, separate, or remove, in numbering, estimating, or calculating; to subtract; -- often with from or out of.

Deduct what is but vanity, or dress.
Pope.

Two and a half per cent should be deducted out of the pay of the foreign troops.
Bp. Burnet.

We deduct from the computation of our years that part of our time which is spent in . . . infancy.
Norris.

3.
To reduce; to diminish.
[Obs.]
deduct
Massinger.


word: Deductible
definition:
Deductible

De*duct"i*ble
(?)
a.
1.
Capable of being deducted, taken away, or withdrawn.

Not one found honestly deductible
From any use that pleased him.
Mrs. Browning.

2.
Deducible; consequential.


word: Deduction
definition:
Deduction

De*duc"tion
(?)
n.
[L. deductio: cf. F. déduction.]
1.
Act or process of deducing or inferring.

The deduction of one language from another.
Johnson.

This process, by which from two statements we deduce a third, is called deduction.
J. R. Seely.

2.
Act of deducting or taking away; subtraction; as, the deduction of the subtrahend from the minuend.

3.
That which is deduced or drawn from premises by a process of reasoning; an inference; a conclusion.

Make fair deductions; see to what they mount.
Pope.

4.
That which is or may be deducted; the part taken away; abatement; as, a deduction from the yearly rent in compensation for services; deductions from income in calculating income taxes.


word: Deductive
definition:
Deductive

De*duct"ive
(?)
a.
[Cf. L. deductivus derivative.]
Of or pertaining to deduction; capable of being deduced from premises; deducible.

All knowledge of causes is deductive.
Glanvill.

Notions and ideas . . . used in a deductive process.
Whewell.


word: Deduplication
definition:
Deduplication

De*du`pli*ca"tion
(?)
n.
[Pref. de- + duplication.]
(Biol.)
The division of that which is morphologically one organ into two or more, as the division of an organ of a plant into a pair or cluster.


word: Deed₂
definition:
Deed

Deed
n.
[AS. d&aemacr_;d; akin to OS. dād, D. & Dan. daad, G. that, Sw. dåd, Goth. dēds; fr. the root of do. See Do, v. t.]
1.
That which is done or effected by a responsible agent; an act; an action; a thing done; -- a word of extensive application, including, whatever is done, good or bad, great or small.

And Joseph said to them, What deed is this which ye have done?
Gen. xliv. 15.

We receive the due reward of our deeds.
Luke xxiii. 41.

Would serve his kind in deed and word.
Tennyson.

2.
Illustrious act; achievement; exploit.
deeds
Spenser.

Whose deeds some nobler poem shall adorn.
Dryden.

3.
Power of action; agency; efficiency.
[Obs.]

To be, both will and deed, created free.
Milton.

4.
Fact; reality; -- whence we have indeed.

5.
(Law)
A sealed instrument in writing, on paper or parchment, duly executed and delivered, containing some transfer, bargain, or contract.

&hand_; The term is generally applied to conveyances of real estate, and it is the prevailing doctrine that a deed must be signed as well as sealed, though at common law signing was formerly not necessary.

Blank deed, a printed form containing the customary legal phraseology, with blank spaces for writing in names, dates, boundaries, etc.

6.
Performance; -- followed by of.
[Obs.]
Shak.

In deed, in fact; in truth; verily. See Indeed.


word: Deed₃
definition:
Deed

Deed
v. t.
To convey or transfer by deed; as, he deeded all his estate to his eldest son.
[Colloq. U. S.]


word: Deedless
definition:
Deedless

Deed"less
a.
Not performing, or not having performed, deeds or exploits; inactive.

Deedless in his tongue.
Shak.


word: Deed poll
definition:
Deed poll

Deed" poll`
(?)
(Law)
A deed of one part, or executed by only one party, and distinguished from an indenture by having the edge of the parchment or paper cut even, or polled as it was anciently termed, instead of being indented.
Burrill.


word: deeds
definition:
deeds

deeds
n.
(Religion)
performance of moral or religious acts; salvation is not by deeds, but by faith; to do good deeds.

Syn. -- works.


word: Deem
definition:
Deem

Deem
(dēm)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deemed (dēmd); p. pr. & vb. n. Deeming.]
[OE. demen to judge, condemn, AS. dēman, fr. d&omacrm doom; akin to OFries. dēma, OS. ad&omacrmian, D. doemen, OHG. tuommen, Icel. dæma, Sw. dömma, Dan. dömme, Goth. d&omacrmjan. See Doom, n., and cf. Doom, v.]
1.
To decide; to judge; to sentence; to condemn.
[Obs.]

Claudius . . . Was demed for to hang upon a tree.
Chaucer.

2.
To account; to esteem; to think; to judge; to hold in opinion; to regard.

For never can I deem him less him less than god.
Dryden.


word: Deem₂
definition:
Deem

Deem
v. i.
1.
To be of opinion; to think; to estimate; to opine; to suppose.

And deemest thou as those who pore,
With aged eyes, short way before?
Emerson.

2.
To pass judgment.
[Obs.]
Spenser.


word: Deemster
definition:
Deemster

Deem"ster
(dēm"stẽr)
n.
[Deem + -ster; i. e., doomster. Cf. Dempster.]
A judge in the Isle of Man who decides controversies without process.
Cowell.


word: de-energize
definition:
de-energize

de-energize
v. t.
to deprive of energy, especially electrical energy; the door locks were de-energized and opened manually.


word: Deep
definition:
Deep

Deep
(dēp)
a.
[Compar. Deeper (dēp"ẽr); superl. Deepest (dēp"ĕst).]
[OE. dep, deop, AS. deóp; akin to D. diep, G. tief, Icel. djūpr, Sw. diup, Dan. dyb, Goth. diups; fr. the root of E. dip, dive. See Dip, Dive.]
1.
Extending far below the surface; of great perpendicular dimension (measured from the surface downward, and distinguished from high, which is measured upward); far to the bottom; having a certain depth; as, a deep sea.

The water where the brook is deep.
Shak.

2.
Extending far back from the front or outer part; of great horizontal dimension (measured backward from the front or nearer part, mouth, etc.); as, a deep cave or recess or wound; a gallery ten seats deep; a company of soldiers six files deep.

Shadowing squadrons deep.
Milton.

Safely in harbor
Is the king's ship in the deep nook.
Shak.

3.
Low in situation; lying far below the general surface; as, a deep valley.

4.
Hard to penetrate or comprehend; profound; -- opposed to shallow or superficial; intricate; mysterious; not obvious; obscure; as, a deep subject or plot.

Speculations high or deep.
Milton.

A question deep almost as the mystery of life.
De Quincey.

O Lord, . . . thy thoughts are very deep.
Ps. xcii. 5.

5.
Of penetrating or far-reaching intellect; not superficial; thoroughly skilled; sagacious; cunning.

Deep clerks she dumbs.
Shak.

6.
Profound; thorough; complete; unmixed; intense; heavy; heartfelt; as, deep distress; deep melancholy; deep horror.
Deep
Milton.
Deep
Milton.
Deep
Gen. ii. 21.
Deeper
Hoole.
deep
2 Cor. viii. 2.

An attitude of deep respect.
Motley.

7.
Strongly colored; dark; intense; not light or thin; as, deep blue or crimson.

8.
Of low tone; full-toned; not high or sharp; grave; heavy.
deep
Byron.

The bass of heaven's deep organ.
Milton.

9.
Muddy; boggy; sandy; -- said of roads.
Chaucer.

The ways in that vale were very deep.
Clarendon.

A deep line of operations (Military), a long line. -- Deep mourning (Costume), mourning complete and strongly marked, the garments being not only all black, but also composed of lusterless materials and of such fashion as is identified with mourning garments.


word: Deep₂
definition:
Deep

Deep
adv.
To a great depth; with depth; far down; profoundly; deeply.

Deep-versed in books, and shallow in himself.
Milton.

Drink deep, or taste not the Pierian spring.
Pope.

&hand_; Deep, in its usual adverbial senses, is often prefixed to an adjective; as, deep-chested, deep-cut, deep-seated, deep-toned, deep-voiced, “deep-uddered kine.”


word: Deep₃
definition:
Deep

Deep
n.
1.
That which is deep, especially deep water, as the sea or ocean; an abyss; a great depth.

Courage from the deeps of knowledge springs.
Cowley.

The hollow deep of hell resounded.
Milton.

Blue Neptune storms, the bellowing deeps resound.
Pope.

2.
That which is profound, not easily fathomed, or incomprehensible; a moral or spiritual depth or abyss.

Thy judgments are a great deep.
Ps. xxxvi. 6.

Deep of night, the most quiet or profound part of night; dead of night.

The deep of night is crept upon our talk.
Shak.


word: Deepen
definition:
Deepen

Deep"en
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deepened (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deepening.]
1.
To make deep or deeper; to increase the depth of; to sink lower; as, to deepen a well or a channel.

It would . . . deepen the bed of the Tiber.
Addison.

2.
To make darker or more intense; to darken; as, the event deepened the prevailing gloom.

You must deepen your colors.
Peacham.

3.
To make more poignant or affecting; to increase in degree; as, to deepen grief or sorrow.

4.
To make more grave or low in tone; as, to deepen the tones of an organ.

Deepens the murmur of the falling floods.
Pope.


word: Deepen₂
definition:
Deepen

Deep"en
v. i.
To become deeper; as, the water deepens at every cast of the lead; the plot deepens.

His blood-red tresses deepening in the sun.
Byron.


word: deep-eyed
definition:
deep-eyed

deep-eyed
adj.
having eyes set well behind the brow; characteristic of the bony face of a cadaver.

Syn. -- hollow-eyed, sunken-eyed.


word: Deep-laid
definition:
Deep-laid

Deep"-laid`
(?)
a.
Laid deeply; formed with cunning and sagacity; secretly and carefully planned; as, deep-laid plans.


word: Deeply
definition:
Deeply

Deep"ly
adv.
1.
At or to a great depth; far below the surface; as, to sink deeply.

2.
Profoundly; thoroughly; not superficially; in a high degree; intensely; as, deeply skilled in ethics.

He had deeply offended both his nobles and people.
Bacon.

He sighed deeply in his spirit.
Mark viii. 12.

3.
Very; with a tendency to darkness of color.

The deeply red juice of buckthorn berries.
Boyle.

4.
Gravely; with low or deep tone; as, a deeply toned instrument.

5.
With profound skill; with art or intricacy; as, a deeply laid plot or intrigue.


word: deep-mined
definition:
deep-mined

deep-mined
adj.
taken from an undergrround mine; -- as contrasted with coal obtained from a strip mine; as, deep-mined coal.


word: Deepness
definition:
Deepness

Deep"ness
n.
1.
The state or quality of being deep, profound, mysterious, secretive, etc.; depth; profundity; -- opposed to shallowness.

Because they had no deepness of earth.
Matt. xiii. 5.

2.
Craft; insidiousness.
[R.]
J. Gregory.


word: deep-rooted
definition:
deep-rooted

deep-rooted
adj.
well-established; as, deep-rooted prejudice.

Syn. -- deep-seated, fundamental, ingrained.


word: Deep-sea
definition:
Deep-sea

Deep"-sea`
(?)
a.
Of or pertaining to the deeper parts of the sea; as, a deep-sea line (i. e., a line to take soundings at a great depth); deep-sea lead; deep-sea soundings, explorations, etc.

2.
at some distance from the shore; as, deep-sea fishing.

Syn. -- offshore.

3.
taking place in the deeper parts of the sea; as, deep-sea exploration.


word: deep-six
definition:
deep-six

deep-six
v. t.
1.
to discard in a deep body of water; -- also used figuratively, to discard contemptuously.

Syn. -- deep six, give it the deep six.

2.
to throw from a boat into the water.

Syn. -- deep six, throw overboard.


word: Deep-waisted
definition:
Deep-waisted

Deep"-waist`ed
(?)
a.
(Naut.)
Having a deep waist, as when, in a ship, the poop and forecastle are much elevated above the deck.


word: deep-water
definition:
deep-water

deep-water
adj.
1.
having waters of great depth; as, a deep-water port.

2.
carried on in waters of great depth.

Syn. -- deep-sea.


word: Deer
definition:
Deer

Deer
(dēr)
n. sing. & pl.
[OE. der, deor, animal, wild animal, AS. deór; akin to D. dier, OFries. diar, G. thier, tier, Icel. d&ymacr_;r, Dan. dyr, Sw. djur, Goth. dius; of unknown origin. √71.]
1.
Any animal; especially, a wild animal.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.

Mice and rats, and such small deer.
Shak.

The camel, that great deer.
Lindisfarne MS.

2.
(Zool.)
A ruminant of the genus Cervus, of many species, and of related genera of the family Cervidæ. The males, and in some species the females, have solid antlers, often much branched, which are shed annually. Their flesh, for which they are hunted, is called venison.

&hand_; The deer hunted in England is Cervus elaphus, called also stag or red deer; the fallow deer is Cervus dama; the common American deer is Cervus Virginianus; the blacktailed deer of Western North America is Cervus Columbianus; and the mule deer of the same region is Cervus macrotis. See Axis, Fallow deer, Mule deer, Reindeer.

&hand_; Deer is much used adjectively, or as the first part of a compound; as, deerkiller, deerslayer, deerslaying, deer hunting, deer stealing, deerlike, etc.

Deer mouse (Zool.), the white-footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopus, formerly Hesperomys leucopus) of America. -- Small deer, petty game, not worth pursuing; -- used metaphorically. (See citation from Shakespeare under the first definition, above.) “Minor critics . . . can find leisure for the chase of such small deer.” G. P. Marsh.


word: Deerberry
definition:
Deerberry

Deer"ber`ry
(?)
n.
(Bot.)
A shrub of the blueberry group (Vaccinium stamineum); also, its bitter, greenish white berry; -- called also squaw huckleberry.


word: Deergrass
definition:
Deergrass

Deer"grass`
(?)
n.
(Bot.)
An American genus (Rhexia) of perennial herbs, with opposite leaves, and showy flowers (usually bright purple), with four petals and eight stamens, -- the only genus of the order Melastomaceæ inhabiting a temperate clime.


word: Deerhound
definition:
Deerhound

Deer"hound`
(?)
n.
(Zool.)
One of a large and fleet breed of hounds used in hunting deer; a staghound.


word: deer's-ear
definition:
deer's-ear

deer's-ear
n.
any of various tall perennial herbs constituting the genus Frasera; it is widely distributed in warm dry upland areas of the US Pacific states.

Syn. -- columbo, American columbo, deer's-ears, pyramid plant, American gentian.


word: Deerskin
definition:
Deerskin

Deer"skin`
(?)
n.
The skin of a deer, or the leather which is made from it.
Hakluyt. Longfellow.


word: Deerstalker
definition:
Deerstalker

Deer"stalk`er
(?)
n.
1.
One who practices deerstalking.

2.
A close-fitting cap, usually woolen, such as is worn in deerstalking, having a low crown and visors both in front and back, and having earflaps which are usually worn tied together over the top; also called fore-and-after, deerstalker hat and deerstalker cap; a hunter's cap; formerly also used for any stiff, round hat.
[Eng.]


word: Deer's-tongue
definition:
Deer's-tongue

Deer's"-tongue`
(?)
n.
(Bot.)
A plant (Liatris odoratissima) whose fleshy leaves give out a fragrance compared to vanilla.
Wood.


word: dee
definition:
dee

dee
(dē)
n.
(Physics)
an electrode with a large interior cavity, shaped like the letter "D", used in opposed pairs to accelerate particles in a cyclotron.


word: Deesis
definition:
Deesis

De*e"sis
(de̝*ē"sĭs)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. de`hsis supplication.]
(Rhet.)
An invocation of, or address to, the Supreme Being.


word: Deface
definition:
Deface

De*face"
(de̝*fās")
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Defaced (de̝*fāst"); p. pr. & vb. n. Defacing.]
[OE. defacen to disfigure, efface, OF. desfacier; L. dis- + facies face. See Face, and cf. Efface.]
1.
To destroy or mar the face or external appearance of; to disfigure; to injure, spoil, or mar, by effacing or obliterating important features or portions of; as, to deface a monument; to deface an edifice; to deface writing; to deface a note, deed, or bond; to deface a record.
defaced
Emerson.

So by false learning is good sense defaced.
Pope.

2.
[Cf. F. défaire.]
To destroy; to make null.
[Obs.]

[Profane scoffing] doth . . . deface the reverence of religion.
Bacon.

For all his power was utterly defaste [defaced].
Spenser.


word: defaced
definition:
defaced

defaced
adj.
having the external appearance impaired, usually deliberately.

Syn. -- marred.


word: Defacement
definition:
Defacement

De*face"ment
(?)
n.
1.
The act of defacing, or the condition of being defaced; injury to the surface or exterior; obliteration.

2.
That which mars or disfigures.
Bacon.


word: De facto
definition:
De facto

De` fac"to
(?)
[L.]
Actually; in fact; in reality; as, a king de facto, -- distinguished from a king de jure, or by right.


word: Defail
definition:
Defail

De*fail"
(?)
v. t.
[F. défaillir to fail; pref. dé- (L. de) + faillir. See Fail, and cf. Default.]
To cause to fail.
[Obs.]


word: Defailance
definition:
Defailance

De*fail"ance
(?)
n.
[F. défaillance.]
Failure; miscarriage.
[Obs.]

Possibility of defailance in degree or continuance.
Comber.


word: Defalcate
definition:
Defalcate

De*fal"cate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Defalcated; p. pr. & vb. n. Defalcating.]
[LL. defalcatus, p. p. of defalcare to deduct, orig., to cut off with a sickle; L. de- + falx, falcis, a sickle. See Falchion.]
To cut off; to take away or deduct a part of; -- used chiefly of money, accounts, rents, income, etc.

To show what may be practicably and safely defalcated from them [the estimates].
Burke.


word: Defalcate₂
definition:
Defalcate

De*fal"cate
v. i.
To commit defalcation; to embezzle money held in trust.
defalcating
Carlyle.


word: Defalcation
definition:
Defalcation

De`fal*ca"tion
(?)
n.
[LL. defalcatio: cf. F. défalcation.]
1.
A lopping off; a diminution; abatement; deficit. Specifically: Reduction of a claim by deducting a counterclaim; set- off.
Abbott.

2.
That which is lopped off, diminished, or abated.

3.
An abstraction of money, etc., by an officer or agent having it in trust; an embezzlement.


word: Defamation
definition:
Defamation

Def`a*ma"tion
(?)
n.
[OE. diffamacioun, F. diffamation. See Defame.]
Act of injuring another's reputation by any slanderous communication, written or oral; the wrong of maliciously injuring the good name of another; slander; detraction; calumny; aspersion.

&hand_; In modern usage, written defamation bears the title of libel, and oral defamation that of slander.
Burrill.


word: Defamatory
definition:
Defamatory

De*fam"a*to*ry
(?)
a.
Containing defamation; injurious to reputation; calumnious; slanderous; as, defamatory words; defamatory writings.


word: Defame
definition:
Defame

De*fame"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Defamed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Defaming.]
[OE. defamen, diffamen, from F. diffamer, or OF. perh. defamer, fr. L. diffamare (cf. defamatus infamous); dis- (in this word confused with de) + fama a report. See Fame.]
1.
To harm or destroy the good fame or reputation of; to disgrace; especially, to speak evil of maliciously; to dishonor by slanderous reports; to calumniate; to asperse.

2.
To render infamous; to bring into disrepute.

My guilt thy growing virtues did defame;
My blackness blotted thy unblemish'd name.
Dryden.

3.
To charge; to accuse.
[R.]

Rebecca is . . . defamed of sorcery practiced on the person of a noble knight.
Sir W. Scott.


word: Defatigable
definition:
Defatigable

De*fat"i*ga*ble
(?)
a.
[See Defatigate.]
Capable of being wearied or tired out.
[R.]
Glanvill.


word: Defatigate
definition:
Defatigate

De*fat"i*gate
(?)
v. t.
[L. defatigatus, p. p. of defatigare; de- + fatigare to weary. See Fatigue.]
To weary or tire out; to fatigue.
[R.]
Sir T. Herbert.


word: Default
definition:
Default

De*fault"
(?)
n.
[OE. defaute, OF. defaute, defalte, fem., F. défaut, masc., LL. defalta, fr. a verb meaning, to be deficient, to want, fail, fr. L. de- + fallere to deceive. See Fault.]
1.
A failing or failure; omission of that which ought to be done; neglect to do what duty or law requires; as, this evil has happened through the governor's default.

2.
Fault; offense; ill deed; wrong act; failure in virtue or wisdom.

And pardon craved for his so rash default.
Spenser.

Regardless of our merit or default.
Pope.

3.
(Law)
A neglect of, or failure to take, some step necessary to secure the benefit of law, as a failure to appear in court at a day assigned, especially of the defendant in a suit when called to make answer; also of jurors, witnesses, etc.

In default of, in case of failure or lack of.
[1913 Webster]
Cooks could make artificial birds and fishes in default of the real ones. Arbuthnot.
-- To suffer a default (Law), to permit an action to be called without appearing to answer.


word: Default₂
definition:
Default

De*fault"
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Defaulted; p. pr. & vb. n. Defaulting.]
1.
To fail in duty; to offend.

That he gainst courtesy so foully did default.
Spenser.

2.
To fail in fulfilling a contract, agreement, or duty.

3.
To fail to appear in court; to let a case go by default.


word: Default₃
definition:
Default

De*fault"
v. t.
1.
To fail to perform or pay; to be guilty of neglect of; to omit; as, to default a dividend.

What they have defaulted towards him as no king.
Milton.

2.
(Law)
To call a defendant or other party whose duty it is to be present in court, and make entry of his default, if he fails to appear; to enter a default against.

3.
To leave out of account; to omit.
[Obs.]

Defaulting unnecessary and partial discourses.
Hales.


word: Defaulter
definition:
Defaulter

De*fault"er
(?)
n.
1.
One who makes default; one who fails to appear in court when court when called.

2.
One who fails to perform a duty; a delinquent; particularly, one who fails to account for public money intrusted to his care; a peculator; a defalcator.


word: Defeasance
definition:
Defeasance

De*fea"sance
(?)
n.
[OF. defesance, fr. defesant, F. défaisant, p. pr. of defaire, F. défaire, to undo. See Defeat.]
1.
A defeat; an overthrow.
[Obs.]

After his foes' defeasance.
Spenser.

2.
A rendering null or void.

3.
(Law)
A condition, relating to a deed, which being performed, the deed is defeated or rendered void; or a collateral deed, made at the same time with a feoffment, or other conveyance, containing conditions, on the performance of which the estate then created may be defeated.

&hand_; Mortgages were usually made in this manner in former times, but the modern practice is to include the conveyance and the defeasance in the same deed.


word: Defeasanced
definition:
Defeasanced

De*fea"sanced
(?)
a.
(Law)
Liable to defeasance; capable of being made void or forfeited.


word: Defeasible
definition:
Defeasible

De*fea"si*ble
(?)
a.
[See Defeasance.]
Capable of being annulled or made void; as, a defeasible title.
De*fea"si*ble*ness, n.


word: Defeat
definition:
Defeat

De*feat"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Defeated; p. pr. & vb. n. Defeating.]
[From F. défait, OF. desfait, p. p. ofe défaire, OF. desfaire, to undo; L. dis- + facere to do. See Feat, Fact, and cf. Disfashion.]
1.
To undo; to disfigure; to destroy.
[Obs.]

His unkindness may defeat my life.
Shak.

2.
To render null and void, as a title; to frustrate, as hope; to deprive, as of an estate.

He finds himself naturally to dread a superior Being that can defeat all his designs, and disappoint all his hopes.
Tillotson.

The escheators . . . defeated the right heir of his succession.
Hallam.

In one instance he defeated his own purpose.
A. W. Ward.

3.
To overcome or vanquish, as an army; to check, disperse, or ruin by victory; to overthrow.

4.
To resist with success; as, to defeat an assault.

Sharp reasons to defeat the law.
Shak.


word: Defeat₂
definition:
Defeat

De*feat"
n.
[Cf. F. défaite, fr. défaire. See Defeat, v.]
1.
An undoing or annulling; destruction.
[Obs.]

Upon whose property and most dear life
A damned defeat was made.
Shak.

2.
Frustration by rendering null and void, or by prevention of success; as, the defeat of a plan or design.

3.
An overthrow, as of an army in battle; loss of a battle; repulse suffered; discomfiture; -- opposed to victory.


word: Defeature
definition:
Defeature

De*fea"ture
(?; 135)
n.
[OF. desfaiture a killing, disguising, prop., an undoing. See Defeat, and cf. Disfeature.]
1.
Overthrow; defeat.
[Obs.]
defeature
Beau. & Fl.

2.
Disfigurement; deformity.
[Obs.]
defeatures
Shak.


word: Defeatured
definition:
Defeatured

De*fea"tured
(?; 135)
p. p.
Changed in features; deformed.
[R.]

Features when defeatured in the . . . way I have described.
De Quincey.


word: Defecate
definition:
Defecate

Def"e*cate
(?)
a.
[L. defaecatus, p. p. of defaecare to defecate; de- + faex, faecis, dregs, lees.]
Freed from anything that can pollute, as dregs, lees, etc.; refined; purified.

Till the soul be defecate from the dregs of sense.
Bates.


word: Defecate₂
definition:
Defecate

Def"e*cate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Defecated; p. pr. & vb. n. Defecating.]
1.
To clear from impurities, as lees, dregs, etc.; to clarify; to purify; to refine.

To defecate the dark and muddy oil of amber.
Boyle.

2.
To free from extraneous or polluting matter; to clear; to purify, as from that which materializes.

We defecate the notion from materiality.
Glanvill.

Defecated from all the impurities of sense.
Bp. Warburton.


word: Defecate₃
definition:
Defecate

Def"e*cate
(?)
v. i.
1.
To become clear, pure, or free.
Goldsmith.

2.
To void excrement.


word: Defecation
definition:
Defecation

Def`e*ca"tion
(?)
n.
[L. defaecatio: cf. F. défécation.]
1.
The act of separating from impurities, as lees or dregs; purification.

2.
(Physiol.)
The act or process of voiding excrement.


word: Defecator
definition:
Defecator

Def"e*ca`tor
(?)
n.
That which cleanses or purifies; esp., an apparatus for removing the feculencies of juices and sirups.
Knight.


word: Defect
definition:
Defect

De*fect"
(?)
n.
[L. defectus, fr. deficere, defectum, to desert, fail, be wanting; de- + facere to make, do. See Fact, Feat, and cf. Deficit.]
1.
Want or absence of something necessary for completeness or perfection; deficiency; -- opposed to superfluity.

Errors have been corrected, and defects supplied.
Davies.

2.
Failing; fault; imperfection, whether physical or moral; blemish; as, a defect in the ear or eye; a defect in timber or iron; a defect of memory or judgment.

Trust not yourself; but, your defects to know,
Make use of every friend -- and every foe.
Pope.

Among boys little tenderness is shown to personal defects.
Macaulay.


word: Defect₂
definition:
Defect

De*fect"
v. i.
To fail; to become deficient.
[Obs.]
Defected
Warner.

2.
to abandon one country or faction, and join another.


word: Defection
definition:
Defection

De*fec"tion
(?)
n.
[L. defectio: cf. F. défection. See Defect.]
Act of abandoning a person or cause to which one is bound by allegiance or duty, or to which one has attached himself; desertion; failure in duty; a falling away; apostasy; backsliding.
Defection
Sir W. Raleigh.

The general defection of the whole realm.
Sir J. Davies.


word: Defective
definition:
Defective

De*fect"ive
(?)
a.
[L. defectivus: cf. F. défectif. See Defect.]
1.
Wanting in something; incomplete; lacking a part; deficient; imperfect; faulty; -- applied either to natural or moral qualities; as, a defective limb; defective timber; a defective copy or account; a defective character; defective rules.

2.
(Gram.)
Lacking some of the usual forms of declension or conjugation; as, a defective noun or verb.
De*fect"ive*ly, adv. -- De*fect"ive*ness, n.


word: Defective₂
definition:
Defective

De*fect"ive
(?)
n.
1.
Anything that is defective or lacking in some respect.

2.
(Med.)
One who is lacking physically or mentally.
&hand_; Under the term defectives are included deaf-mutes, the blind, the feeble-minded, the insane, and sometimes, esp. in criminology, criminals and paupers.


word: Defectuosity
definition:
Defectuosity

De*fec`tu*os"i*ty
(?; 135)
n.
[Cf. F. défectuosité.]
Great imperfection.
[Obs.]
W. Montagu.


word: Defedation
definition:
Defedation

Def`e*da"tion
(?)
n.
[L. defoedare, defoedatum, to defile; de- + foedare to foul, foedus foul.]
The act of making foul; pollution.
[Obs.]


word: defenceless
definition:
defenceless

defenceless
adj.
same as defenseless; as, a defenceless child.

Syn. -- defenseless, helpless.


word: Defend
definition:
Defend

De*fend"
(de̝*fĕnd")
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Defended; p. pr. & vb. n. Defending.]
[F. défendre, L. defendere; de- + fendere (only in comp.) to strike; perh. akin to Gr. qei`nein to strike, and E. dint. Cf. Dint, Defense, Fend.]
1.
To ward or fend off; to drive back or away; to repel.
[A Latinism & Obs.]

Th' other strove for to defend
The force of Vulcan with his might and main.
Spenser.

2.
To prohibit; to forbid.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.

Which God defend that I should wring from him.
Shak.
3.
To repel danger or harm from; to protect; to secure against attack; to maintain against force or argument; to uphold; to guard; as, to defend a town; to defend a cause; to defend character; to defend the absent; -- sometimes followed by from or against; as, to defend one's self from, or against, one's enemies.

The lord mayor craves aid . . . to defend the city.
Shak.

God defend the right!
Shak.

A village near it was defended by the river.
Clarendon.

4.
(Law.)
To deny the right of the plaintiff in regard to (the suit, or the wrong charged); to oppose or resist, as a claim at law; to contest, as a suit.
Burrill.
As birds flying, so will the Lord of hosts defend Jerusalem; defending also he will deliver it.
Is. xxxi. 5.

Leave not the faithful side
That gave thee being, still shades thee and protects.
Milton.


word: Defendable
definition:
Defendable

De*fend"a*ble
(de̝*fĕnd"ȧ*b'l)
a.
[Cf. F. défendable.]
Capable of being defended; defensible.
[R.]


word: Defendant
definition:
Defendant

De*fend"ant
(de̝*fĕnd"ant)
a.
[F. défendant, p. pr. of défendre. See Defend.]
1.
Serving, or suitable, for defense; defensive.
[Obs.]

With men of courage and with means defendant.
Shak.

2.
Making defense.


word: Defendant₂
definition:
Defendant

De*fend"ant
n.
1.
One who defends; a defender.

The rampiers and ditches which the defendants had cast up.
Spotswood.

2.
(Law)
A person required to make answer in an action or suit; -- opposed to plaintiff.
Abbott.

&hand_; The term is applied to any party of whom a demand is made in court, whether the party denies and defends the claim, or admits it, and suffers a default; also to a party charged with a criminal offense.


word: Defender
definition:
Defender

De*fend"er
(de̝*fĕnd"ẽr)
n.
[Cf. Fender.]
One who defends; one who maintains, supports, protects, or vindicates; a champion; an advocate; a vindicator.

Provinces . . . left without their ancient and puissant defenders.
Motley.


word: defenestrate
definition:
defenestrate

de*fen"es*trate
(de̝*fĕn"ĕs*trāt)
v. t.
to throw (something or someone) out of a window.


word: defenestration
definition:
defenestration

de*fen`es*tra"tion
(de̝*fĕn`ĕs*trā"shŭn)
n.
the act of throwing (something or someone) out of a window.


word: defensative
definition:
defensative

de*fen"sa*tive
(?)
n.
[L. defensare, defensatum, to defend diligently, intens. of defendere. See Defend.]
That which serves to protect or defend.


word: Defence₂
definition:
Defence

Defense

{ De*fense", De*fence" }
(?)
n.
[F. défense, OF. defense, fem., defens, masc., fr. L. defensa (cf. LL. defensum), from defendere. See Defend, and cf. Fence.]
1.
The act of defending, or the state of being defended; protection, as from violence or danger.

In cases of defense 't is best to weigh
The enemy more mighty than he seems.
Shak.

2.
That which defends or protects; anything employed to oppose attack, ward off violence or danger, or maintain security; a guard; a protection.

War would arise in defense of the right.
Tennyson.

God, the widow's champion and defense.
Shak.

3.
Protecting plea; vindication; justification.

Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defense.
Acts xxii. 1.

4.
(Law)
The defendant's answer or plea; an opposing or denial of the truth or validity of the plaintiff's or prosecutor's case; the method of proceeding adopted by the defendant to protect himself against the plaintiff's action.

5.
Act or skill in making defense; defensive plan or policy; practice in self defense, as in fencing, boxing, etc.

A man of great defense.
Spenser.

By how much defense is better than no skill.
Shak.

6.
Prohibition; a prohibitory ordinance.
[Obs.]

Severe defenses . . . against wearing any linen under a certain breadth.
Sir W. Temple.


word: Defense
definition:
Defense

De*fense"
v. t.
To furnish with defenses; to fortify.
[Obs.]
[Written also defence.]

Better manned and more strongly defensed.
Hales.


word: Defenseless
definition:
Defenseless

De*fense"less
a.
Destitute of defense; unprepared to resist attack; unable to oppose; unprotected.
[Also spelled defenceless.]
De*fense"less*ly, adv. -- De*fense"less*ness, n.

2.
unarmed; used of persons or the military.
armed


word: Defensible
definition:
Defensible

De*fen"si*ble
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. défensable, LL. defensabilis, defensibilis. See Defense, and cf. Defendable.]
1.
Capable of being defended; as, a defensible city, or a defensible cause.

2.
Capable of offering defense.
[Obs.]
Shak.


word: Defensive
definition:
Defensive

De*fen"sive
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. défensif.]
1.
Serving to defend or protect; proper for defense; opposed to offensive; as, defensive armor.

A moat defensive to a house.
Shak.

2.
Carried on by resisting attack or aggression; -- opposed to offensive; as, defensive war.

3.
In a state or posture of defense.
Milton.


word: Defensive₂
definition:
Defensive

De*fen"sive
n.
That which defends; a safeguard.

Wars preventive, upon just fears, are true defensives.
Bacon.

To be on the defensive, To stand on the defensive, to be or stand in a state or posture of defense or resistance, in opposition to aggression or attack.


word: Defensor
definition:
Defensor

De*fen"sor
(?)
n.
[L. See Defenser.]
1.
A defender.
Fabyan.

2.
(Law)
A defender or an advocate in court; a guardian or protector.

3.
(Eccl.)
The patron of a church; an officer having charge of the temporal affairs of a church.


word: Defensory
definition:
Defensory

De*fen"so*ry
(?)
a.
[L. defensorius.]
Tending to defend; defensive; as, defensory preparations.


word: Defer
definition:
Defer

De*fer"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deferred (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deferring.]
[OE. differren, F. différer, fr. L. differre to delay, bear different ways; dis- + ferre to bear. See Bear to support, and cf. Differ, Defer to offer.]
To put off; to postpone to a future time; to delay the execution of; to delay; to withhold.

Defer the spoil of the city until night.
Shak.

God . . . will not long defer
To vindicate the glory of his name.
Milton.


word: Defer₂
definition:
Defer

De*fer"
v. i.
To put off; to delay to act; to wait.

Pius was able to defer and temporize at leisure.
J. A. Symonds.


word: Defer₃
definition:
Defer

De*fer"
v. t.
[F. déférer to pay deference, to yield, to bring before a judge, fr. L. deferre to bring down; de- + ferre to bear. See Bear to support, and cf. Defer to delay, Delate.]
1.
To render or offer.
[Obs.]

Worship deferred to the Virgin.
Brevint.

2.
To lay before; to submit in a respectful manner; to refer; -- with to.

Hereupon the commissioners . . . deferred the matter to the Earl of Northumberland.
Bacon.


word: Defer₄
definition:
Defer

De*fer"
v. i.
To yield deference to the wishes of another; to submit to the opinion of another, or to authority; -- with to.

The house, deferring to legal right, acquiesced.
Bancroft.


word: Deference
definition:
Deference

Def"er*ence
(?)
n.
[F. déférence. See 3d Defer.]
A yielding of judgment or preference from respect to the wishes or opinion of another; submission in opinion; regard; respect; complaisance.

Deference to the authority of thoughtful and sagacious men.
Whewell.

Deference is the most complicate, the most indirect, and the most elegant of all compliments.
Shenstone.


word: Deferent
definition:
Deferent

Def"er*ent
(?)
a.
[L. deferens, p. pr. of deferre. See 3d Defer.]
Serving to carry; bearing.
[R.]
deferent
Bacon.


word: Deferent₂
definition:
Deferent

Def"er*ent
n.
1.
That which carries or conveys.

Though air be the most favorable deferent of sounds.
Bacon.

2.
(Ptolemaic Astron.)
An imaginary circle surrounding the earth, in whose periphery either the heavenly body or the center of the heavenly body's epicycle was supposed to be carried round.


word: Deferment
definition:
Deferment

De*fer"ment
(?)
n.
[See 1st Defer.]
The act of delaying; postponement.
[R.]

My grief, joined with the instant business,
Begs a deferment.
Suckling.


word: Defervescency
definition:
Defervescency

Defervescence

{ De`fer*ves"cence (?), De`fer*ves"cency (?), }
n.
[L. defervescere to grow cool.]
1.
A subsiding from a state of ebullition; loss of heat; lukewarmness.

A defervescency in holy actions.
Jer. Taylor.

2.
(Med.)
The subsidence of a febrile process; as, the stage of defervescence in pneumonia.


word: Defiance
definition:
Defiance

De*fi"ance
(?)
n.
[OF. defiance, desfiance, challenge, fr. desfier to challenge, F. défier. See Defy.]
1.
The act of defying, putting in opposition, or provoking to combat; a challenge; a provocation; a summons to combat.

A war without a just defiance made.
Dryden.

Stood for her cause, and flung defiance down.
Tennyson.

2.
A state of opposition; willingness to flight; disposition to resist; contempt of opposition.

He breathed defiance to my ears.
Shak.

3.
A casting aside; renunciation; rejection.
[Obs.]
Defiance
Ford.

To bid defiance, To set at defiance, to defy; to disregard recklessly or contemptuously. Locke.


word: Defiant
definition:
Defiant

De*fi"ant
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. défiant, p. pr. of défier. See Defy.]
Full of defiance; bold; insolent; as, a defiant spirit or act.

In attitude stern and defiant.
Longfellow.


word: Defibrinate
definition:
Defibrinate

De*fi"bri*nate
(?)
v. t.
To deprive of fibrin, as fresh blood or lymph by stirring with twigs.


word: Deficience
definition:
Deficience

De*fi"cience
(?)
n.
Same as Deficiency.

Thou in thyself art perfect, and in thee
Is no deficience found.
Milton.


word: Deficiency
definition:
Deficiency

De*fi"cien*cy
(?)
n.
pl. Deficiencies (#).
[See Deficient.]
The state of being deficient; inadequacy; want; failure; imperfection; shortcoming; defect.
deficiency
Arbuthnot.

[Marlborough] was so miserably ignorant, that his deficiencies made him the ridicule of his contemporaries.
Buckle.

Deficiency of a curve (Geom.), the amount by which the number of double points on a curve is short of the maximum for curves of the same degree.


word: Deficient
definition:
Deficient

De*fi"cient
(?)
a.
[L. deficiens, -entis, p. pr. of deficere to be wanting. See Defect.]
Wanting, to make up completeness; wanting, as regards a requirement; not sufficient; inadequate; defective; imperfect; incomplete; lacking; as, deficient parts; deficient estate; deficient strength; deficient in judgment.

The style was indeed deficient in ease and variety.
Macaulay.

Deficient number. (Arith.) See under Abundant.


word: Deficit
definition:
Deficit

Def"i*cit
(?)
n.
[Lit., it is wanting, 3d person pres. indic. of L. deficere, cf. F. déficit. See Defect.]
Deficiency in amount or quality; a falling short; lack; as, a deficit in taxes, revenue, etc.
Addison.


word: Defier
definition:
Defier

De*fi"er
(?)
n.
[See Defy.]
One who dares and defies; a contemner; as, a defier of the laws.


word: Defigure
definition:
Defigure

De*fig"ure
(?)
v. t.
[Pref. de- (intens.) + figure.]
To delineate.
[Obs.]

These two stones as they are here defigured.
Weever.


word: Defilade
definition:
Defilade

De`fi*lade"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Defiladed; p. pr. & vb. n. Defilading.]
[Cf. F. défiler to defile, and défilade act of defiling. See 1st Defile.]
(Mil.)
To raise, as a rampart, so as to shelter interior works commanded from some higher point.


word: Defilading
definition:
Defilading

De`fi*lad"ing
n.
(Mil.)
The art or act of determining the directions and heights of the lines of rampart with reference to the protection of the interior from exposure to an enemy's fire from any point within range, or from any works which may be erected.
Farrow.


word: Defile
definition:
Defile

De*file"
(de̝*fīl")
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Defiled (de̝*fīld"); p. pr. & vb. n. Defiling.]
[F. défiler; pref. dé-, for des- (L. dis-) + file a row or line. See File a row.]
To march off in a line, file by file; to file off.


word: Defile₃
definition:
Defile

De*file"
(de̝*fīl" or dē"fīl; 277)
n.
[Cf. F. défilé, fr. défiler to defile.]
1.
Any narrow passage or gorge in which troops can march only in a file, or with a narrow front; a long, narrow pass between hills, rocks, etc.

2.
(Mil.)
The act of defilading a fortress, or of raising the exterior works in order to protect the interior. See Defilade.


word: Defile₄
definition:
Defile

De*file"
(de̝*fīl")
v. t.
[OE. defoulen, -foilen, to tread down, OF. defouler; de- + fouler to trample (see Full, v. t.), and OE. defoulen to foul (influenced in form by the older verb defoilen). See File to defile, Foul, Defoul.]
1.
To make foul or impure; to make filthy; to dirty; to befoul; to pollute.

They that touch pitch will be defiled.
Shak.

2.
To soil or sully; to tarnish, as reputation; to taint.

He is . . . among the greatest prelates of this age, however his character may be defiled by . . . dirty hands.
Swift.

3.
To injure in purity of character; to corrupt.

Defile not yourselves with the idols of Egypt.
Ezek. xx. 7.

4.
To corrupt the chastity of; to debauch; to violate; to rape.

The husband murder'd and the wife defiled.
Prior.

5.
To make ceremonially unclean; to pollute.

That which dieth of itself, or is torn with beasts, he shall not eat to defile therewith.
Lev. xxii. 8.


word: defiled
definition:
defiled

defiled
adj.
1.
morally blemished.
[archaic]

Syn. -- maculate.

2.
(Religion)
ritually unclean.  Opposite of clean.

Syn. -- unclean, impure.


word: Defilement
definition:
Defilement

De*file"ment
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. défilement. See Defile]
(Mil.)
The protection of the interior walls of a fortification from an enfilading fire, as by covering them, or by a high parapet on the exposed side.


word: Defilement₂
definition:
Defilement

De*file"ment
n.
[From 3d Defile.]
The act of defiling, or state of being defiled, whether physically or morally; pollution; foulness; dirtiness; uncleanness.

Defilements of the flesh.
Hopkins.

The chaste can not rake into such filth without danger of defilement.
Addison.


word: Defiliation
definition:
Defiliation

De*fil`i*a"tion
(?)
n.
[L. de- + filius son.]
Abstraction of a child from its parents.
Lamb.


word: Definable
definition:
Definable

De*fin"a*ble
(?)
a.
[From Define.]
Capable of being defined, limited, or explained; determinable; describable by definition; ascertainable; as, definable limits; definable distinctions or regulations; definable words.
De*fin"a*bly, adv.


word: Define
definition:
Define

De*fine"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Defined (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Defining.]
[OE. definer, usually, to end, to finish, F. définir to define, L. definire to limit, define; de- + finire to limit, end, finis boundary, limit, end. See Final, Finish.]
1.
To fix the bounds of; to bring to a termination; to end.
define
Barrow.

2.
To determine or clearly exhibit the boundaries of; to mark the limits of; as, to define the extent of a kingdom or country.

3.
To determine with precision; to mark out with distinctness; to ascertain or exhibit clearly; as, the defining power of an optical instrument.

Rings . . . very distinct and well defined.
Sir I. Newton.

4.
To determine the precise signification of; to fix the meaning of; to describe accurately; to explain; to expound or interpret; as, to define a word, a phrase, or a scientific term.

They define virtue to be life ordered according to nature.
Robynson (More's Utopia).


word: Definite
definition:
Definite

Def"i*nite
(?)
a.
[L. definitis, p. p. of definire: cf. F. défini. See Define.]
1.
Having certain or distinct; determinate in extent or greatness; limited; fixed; as, definite dimensions; a definite measure; a definite period or interval.

Elements combine in definite proportions.
Whewell.

2.
Having certain limits in signification; determinate; certain; precise; fixed; exact; clear; as, a definite word, term, or expression.

3.
Determined; resolved.
[Obs.]
Shak.

4.
Serving to define or restrict; limiting; determining; as, the definite article.

Definite article (Gram.), the article the, which is used to designate a particular person or thing, or a particular class of persons or things; -- also called a definitive. See Definitive, n. - - Definite inflorescence. (Bot.) See Determinate inflorescence, under Determinate. -- Law of definite proportions (Chem.), the essential law of chemical combination that every definite compound always contains the same elements in the same proportions by weight; and, if two or more elements form more than one compound with each other, the relative proportions of each are fixed. Compare Law of multiple proportions, under Multiple.


word: Definiteness
definition:
Definiteness

Def"i*nite*ness
n.
The state of being definite; determinateness; precision; certainty.


word: Definition
definition:
Definition

Def`i*ni"tion
(?)
n.
[L. definitio: cf. F. définition.]
1.
The act of defining; determination of the limits; as, a telescope accurate in definition.

2.
Act of ascertaining and explaining the signification; a description of a thing by its properties; an explanation of the meaning of a word or term; as, the definition of “circle;” the definition of “wit;” an exact definition; a loose definition.

Definition being nothing but making another understand by words what the term defined stands for.
Locke.

3.
Description; sort.
[R.]
definition
Jer. Taylor.

4.
(Logic)
An exact enunciation of the constituents which make up the logical essence.

5.
(Opt.)
Distinctness or clearness, as of an image formed by an optical instrument; precision in detail.


word: Definitional
definition:
Definitional

Def`i*ni"tion*al
(?)
a.
Relating to definition; of the nature of a definition; employed in defining.


word: Definitive
definition:
Definitive

De*fin"i*tive
(?)
a.
[L. definitivus: cf. F. définitif.]
1.
Determinate; positive; final; conclusive; unconditional; express.

A strict and definitive truth.
Sir T. Browne.

Some definitive . . . scheme of reconciliation.
Prescott.

2.
Limiting; determining; as, a definitive word.

3.
Determined; resolved.
[Obs.]
Shak.


word: Definitive₂
definition:
Definitive

De*fin"i*tive
n.
(Gram.)
A word used to define or limit the extent of the signification of a common noun, such as the definite article, and some pronouns.

&hand_; Definitives . . . are commonly called by grammarians articles. . . . They are of two kinds, either those properly and strictly so called, or else pronominal articles, such as this, that, any, other, some, all, no, none, etc.
Harris (Hermes).


word: Definitude
definition:
Definitude

De*fin"i*tude
(?)
n.
Definiteness.
[R.]

Definitude . . . is a knowledge of minute differences.
Sir W. Hamilton.


word: Defix
definition:
Defix

De*fix"
(?)
v. t.
[L. defixus, p. p. of defigere to fix; de- + figere to fix.]
To fix; to fasten; to establish.
[Obs.]
defix
Hakluyt.


word: Deflagrability
definition:
Deflagrability

Def`la*gra*bil"i*ty
(?)
n.
(Chem.)
The state or quality of being deflagrable.

The ready deflagrability . . . of saltpeter.
Boyle.


word: Deflagrable
definition:
Deflagrable

De*fla"gra*ble
(?; 277)
a.
[See Deflagrate.]
(Chem.)
Burning with a sudden and sparkling combustion, as niter; hence, slightly explosive; liable to snap and crackle when heated, as salt.


word: Deflagrate
definition:
Deflagrate

Def"la*grate
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Deflagrated; p. pr. & vb. n. Deflagrating.]
[L. deflagratus, p. p. of deflagrare to burn up; de- + flagrare to flame, burn.]
(Chem.)
To burn with a sudden and sparkling combustion, as niter; also, to snap and crackle with slight explosions when heated, as salt.


word: Deflagrate₂
definition:
Deflagrate

Def"la*grate
v. t.
(Chem.)
To cause to burn with sudden and sparkling combustion, as by the action of intense heat; to burn or vaporize suddenly; as, to deflagrate refractory metals in the oxyhydrogen flame.


word: Deflagration
definition:
Deflagration

Def`la*gra"tion
(?)
n.
[L. deflagratio: cf. F. déflagration.]
1.
A burning up; conflagration.
deflagrations
Bp. Pearson.

2.
(Chem.)
The act or process of deflagrating.


word: Deflagrator
definition:
Deflagrator

Def"la*gra`tor
(?)
n.
(Chem.)
A form of the voltaic battery having large plates, used for producing rapid and powerful combustion.


word: deflate
definition:
deflate

de*flate"
(?)
v. t.
[Pref. de- down + L. flare, flatus to blow.]
To reduce from an inflated condition; used literally and metaphorically; as, to deflate a tire; to deflate expectations.


word: deflated
definition:
deflated

deflated
adj.
1.
brought low in spirit.
left us fatigued and deflated spiritually

Syn. -- chapfallen, chopfallen, crestfallen.


word: deflation
definition:
deflation

deflation
n.
1.
the act or process of deflating.

2.
a fall in the average prices of goods and services; -- usually associated with contraction of economic activity.  Opposite of inflation.  Compare disinflation.

3.
the reduction of available credit or a contraction of economic activity resulting from or associated with a decline of prices.

4.
the act of letting the air out of something.

5.
(Geol.)
the erosion of land structures such as sand or soil due to the action of wind.
RHUD


word: deflationary
definition:
deflationary

deflationary
adj.
1.
of or pertaining to deflation; as, deflationary signs.

2.
(Economics)
associated with or tending to cause decreases in consumer prices or increases in the purchasing power of money; as, deflationary measures.  Opposite of inflationary.


word: deflator
definition:
deflator

deflator
n.
a statistical factor designed to remove the effect of inflation; inflation adjusted variables are in constant dollars; as, the GNP deflator..


word: deflect
definition:
deflect

de*flect"
(de̝*flĕkt")
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deflected; p. pr. & vb. n. Deflecting.]
[L. deflectere; de- + flectere to bend or turn. See Flexible.]
To cause to turn aside; to bend; as, rays of light are often deflected; to deflect a punch; to deflect criticism by acknowledging a mistake.

Sitting with their knees deflected under them.
Lord (1630).


word: Deflect
definition:
Deflect

De*flect"
v. i.
To turn aside; to deviate from a right or a horizontal line, or from a proper position, course or direction; to swerve.

At some part of the Azores, the needle deflecteth not, but lieth in the true meridian.
Sir T. Browne.

To deflect from the line of truth and reason.
Warburton.


word: Deflected
definition:
Deflected

De*flect"ed
a.
1.
Turned aside; deviating from a direct line or course.

2.
Bent downward; deflexed.


word: Deflection
definition:
Deflection

De*flec"tion
(?)
n.
[L. deflexio, fr. deflectere: cf. F. déflexion.]
1.
The act of turning aside, or state of being turned aside; a turning from a right line or proper course; a bending, esp. downward; deviation.

The other leads to the same point, through certain deflections.
Lowth.

2.
(Gunnery)
The deviation of a shot or ball from its true course.

3.
(Opt.)
A deviation of the rays of light toward the surface of an opaque body; inflection; diffraction.

4.
(Engin.)
The bending which a beam or girder undergoes from its own weight or by reason of a load.


word: Deflectionize
definition:
Deflectionize

De*flec"tion*ize
(?)
v. t.
To free from inflections.

Deflectionized languages are said to be analytic.
Earle.


word: Deflective
definition:
Deflective

De*flect"ive
(?)
a.
Causing deflection.

Deflective forces, forces that cause a body to deviate from its course.


word: Deflector
definition:
Deflector

De*flect"or
(?)
n.
(Mech.)
That which deflects, as a diaphragm in a furnace, or a cone in a lamp (to deflect and mingle air and gases and help combustion).


word: Deflexure
definition:
Deflexure

De*flex"ure
(?)
n.
[From L. deflectere, deflexum. See Deflect.]
A bending or turning aside; deflection.
Bailey.


word: Deflorate
definition:
Deflorate

De*flo"rate
(?)
a.
[LL. defloratus, p. p. of deflorare. See Deflour.]
(Bot.)
Past the flowering state; having shed its pollen.
Gray.


word: Defloration
definition:
Defloration

Def`lo*ra"tion
(?)
n.
[LL. defloratio: cf. F. défloration.]
1.
The act of deflouring; as, the defloration of a virgin.
Johnson.

2.
That which is chosen as the flower or choicest part; careful culling or selection.
[R.]

The laws of Normandy are, in a great measure, the defloration of the English laws.
Sir M. Hale.


word: deflour
definition:
deflour

de*flour"
(?)
v. t.
[Pref. de- + flower.]
Same as Deflower.
[archaic]

He died innocent and before the sweetness of his soul was defloured and ravished from him.
Jer. Taylor.


word: Deflow
definition:
Deflow

De*flow"
(?)
v. i.
[Pref. de- + flow: cf. L. defluere.]
To flow down.
[Obs.]
Sir T. Browne.


word: deflower
definition:
deflower

de*flow"er
(?)
v. t.
[Previously also spelled deflour.]
[imp. & p. p. Deflowered (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deflowering.]
[F. déflorer, LL. deflorare; L. de- + flos, floris, flower. See Flower, and cf. Deflorate.]
1.
To deprive of flowers.

An earthquake . . . deflowering the gardens.
W. Montagu.

2.
To take away the prime beauty and grace of; to rob of the choicest ornament.

3.
To deprive of virginity, as a woman; to violate; to ravish; also, to seduce.

If a man had deflowered a virgin.
Milton.


word: Defluous
definition:
Defluous

Def"lu*ous
(?)
a.
[L. defluus, fr. defluere to flow down; de- + fluere to flow.]
Flowing down; falling off.
[Obs.]
Bailey.


word: Defluxion
definition:
Defluxion

De*flux"ion
(?)
n.
[L. defluxio.]
(Med.)
A discharge or flowing of humors or fluid matter, as from the nose in catarrh; -- sometimes used synonymously with inflammation.
Dunglison.


word: Defoliated
definition:
Defoliated

Defoliate

{ De*fo"li*ate (?), De*fo"li*a`ted (?). }
a.
Deprived of leaves, as by their natural fall.


word: defoliate
definition:
defoliate

de*fol"i*ate
(?)
v. t.
[LL. defoliare, to shed leaves; L. de- + folium leaf: cf. F. défoliation.]
to cause (a plant) to shed its leaves.


word: defoliation
definition:
defoliation

de*fo`li*a"tion
(?)
n.
[LL. defoliare, defoliatum, to shed leaves; L. de- + folium leaf: cf. F. défoliation.]
The separation of ripened leaves from a branch or stem; the falling or shedding of the leaves.

2.
the act or process of causing plants to lose their leaves, especially by application of a chemical agent.
The deliberate defoliation of plants has been used in war (as in Vietnam) to deprive an enemy of cover and allow attack from the air; also, to destroy narcotic-producing plants as a tactic against illegal drug production.  The chemical defoliating agents are often sprayed over large areas from airplanes.


word: Deforce
definition:
Deforce

De*force"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deforced (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deforcing.]
[OF. deforcier; de- or des- (L. de or dis-) + forcier, F. forcer. See Force, v.]
(Law)
(a)
To keep from the rightful owner; to withhold wrongfully the possession of, as of lands or a freehold.
(b)
(Scots Law)
To resist the execution of the law; to oppose by force, as an officer in the execution of his duty.
Burrill.


word: Deforcement
definition:
Deforcement

De*force"ment
(?)
n.
[OF.]
(Law)
(a)
A keeping out by force or wrong; a wrongful withholding, as of lands or tenements, to which another has a right.
(b)
(Scots Law)
Resistance to an officer in the execution of law.
Burrill.


word: Deforciant
definition:
Deforciant

De*for"ciant
(?)
n.
[OF. deforciant, p. pr. of deforcier. See Deforce.]
(Eng. Law)
(a)
One who keeps out of possession the rightful owner of an estate.
(b)
One against whom a fictitious action of fine was brought.
[Obs.]
Burrill.


word: Deform
definition:
Deform

De*form"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deformed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deforming.]
[L. deformare; de- + formare to form, shape, fr. forma: cf. F. déformer. See Form.]
1.
To spoil the form of; to mar in form; to misshape; to disfigure.

Deformed, unfinished, sent before my time
Into this breathing world.
Shak.

2.
To render displeasing; to deprive of comeliness, grace, or perfection; to dishonor.

Above those passions that this world deform.
Thomson.


word: Deform₂
definition:
Deform

De*form"
a.
[L. deformis; de- + forma form: cf. OF. deforme, F. difforme. Cf. Difform.]
Deformed; misshapen; shapeless; horrid.
[Obs.]

Sight so deform what heart of rock could long
Dry-eyed behold?
Milton.


word: Deformation
definition:
Deformation

Def`or*ma"tion
(?)
n.
[L. deformatio: cf. F. déformation.]
1.
The act of deforming, or state of anything deformed.
Bp. Hall.

2.
Transformation; change of shape.


word: Deformed
definition:
Deformed

De*formed"
(?)
a.
Unnatural or distorted in form; having a deformity; misshapen; disfigured; as, a deformed person; a deformed head.
De*form"ed*ly (#), adv. -- De*form"ed*ness, n.


word: Deformity
definition:
Deformity

De*form"i*ty
(?)
n.
pl. Deformities (#).
[L. deformitas, fr. deformis: cf. OF. deformeté, deformité, F. difformité. See Deform, v. & a., and cf. Disformity.]
1.
The state of being deformed; want of proper form or symmetry; any unnatural form or shape; distortion; irregularity of shape or features; ugliness.

To make an envious mountain on my back,
Where sits deformity to mock my body.
Shak.

2.
Anything that destroys beauty, grace, or propriety; irregularity; absurdity; gross deviation from order or the established laws of propriety; as, deformity in an edifice; deformity of character.

Confounded, that her Maker's eyes
Should look so near upon her foul deformities.
Milton.


word: Defoul
definition:
Defoul

De*foul"
(?)
v. t.
[See Defile, v. t.]
1.
To tread down.
[Obs.]
Wyclif.

2.
To make foul; to defile.
[Obs.]
Wyclif.


word: Defraud
definition:
Defraud

De*fraud"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Defrauded; p. pr. & vb. n. Defrauding.]
[L. defraudare; de- + fraudare to cheat, fr. fraus, fraudis, fraud: cf. OF. defrauder. See Fraud.]
To deprive of some right, interest, or property, by a deceitful device; to withhold from wrongfully; to injure by embezzlement; to cheat; to overreach; as, to defraud a servant, or a creditor, or the state; -- with of before the thing taken or withheld.

We have defrauded no man.
2 Cor. vii. 2.

Churches seem injured and defrauded of their rights.
Hooker.


word: Defraudation
definition:
Defraudation

De`frau*da"tion
(?)
n.
[L. defraudatio: cf. F. défraudation.]
The act of defrauding; a taking by fraud.
[R.]
Sir T. Browne.


word: Defraudment
definition:
Defraudment

De*fraud"ment
(?)
n.
[Cf. OF. defraudement.]
Privation by fraud; defrauding.
[Obs.]
Milton.


word: Defray
definition:
Defray

De*fray"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Defrayed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Defraying.]
[F. défrayer; pref. dé- (L. de or dis-) + frais expense, fr. LL. fredum, fridum, expense, fine by which an offender obtained peace from his sovereign, or more likely, atoned for an offense against the public peace, fr. OHG. fridu peace, G. friede. See Affray.]
1.
To pay or discharge; to serve in payment of; to provide for, as a charge, debt, expenses, costs, etc.

For the discharge of his expenses, and defraying his cost, he allowed him . . . four times as much.
Usher.

2.
To avert or appease, as by paying off; to satisfy; as, to defray wrath.
[Obs.]
Spenser.


word: defrock
definition:
defrock

defrock
v. t.
To divest of the frock, i. e. to deprive (a priest, minister, etc.) of official ecclesiastical authority; -- of church officials.

Syn. -- unfrock.


word: defrost
definition:
defrost

defrost
v. t.
To remove the frost or ice from; as, to defrost the car window; to defrost a refrigerator.

Syn. -- deice.


word: defrost₂
definition:
defrost

defrost
v. i.
1.
To become free of frost or ice; as, it took four hours for the refrigerator to defrost.

Syn. -- deice.

2.
To thaw; -- used especially of items removed from a freezer, such as frozen foods.


word: defroster
definition:
defroster

defroster
n.
A device that removes ice or frost (as from a windshield or a refrigerator or the wings of an airplane).

Syn. -- deicer.


word: deft
definition:
deft

deft
(dĕft)
a.
[OE. daft, deft, becoming, mild, gentle, stupid (cf. OE. daffe, deffe, fool, coward), AS. dæft (in derivatives only) mild, gentle, fitting, seasonable; akin to dafen, gedafen, becoming, fit, Goth. gadaban to be fit. Cf. Daft, Daff, Dapper.]
1.
Apt; fit; spruce; neat.
[Archaic or Poetic]
deftest
Shak.
Deftest
Gay.

Let me be deft and debonair.
Byron.

2.
dexterous; clever; handy; as, a deft feat of legerdemain.

The limping god, so deft at his new ministry.
Dryden.


word: Deftly
definition:
Deftly

Deft"ly
adv.
[Cf. Defly.]
Aptly; fitly; dexterously; neatly.
Deftly
Drayton.

Thyself and office deftly show.
Shak.


word: Defunct
definition:
Defunct

De*funct"
(de̝*fŭ&nsmacr_;kt")
a.
[L. defunctus, p. p. of defungi to acquit one's self of, to perform, finish, depart, die; de + fungi to perform, discharge: cf. F. défunt. See Function.]
1.
Having finished the course of life; dead; deceased.
Defunct
Shak.

The boar, defunct, lay tripped up, near.
Byron.

2.
No longer in effect or use; no longer operating; as, a defunct business; a defunct law.


word: Defunction
definition:
Defunction

De*func"tion
(de̝*fŭ&nsmacr_;k"shŭn)
n.
[L. defunctio performance, death.]
Death.
[Obs.]

After defunction of King Pharamond.
Shak.


word: defuse
definition:
defuse

de*fuse"
(de̝*fūz")
v. t.
[Cf. Diffuse.]
1.
To disorder; to make shapeless.
[Obs.]
Shak.

2.
To remove the fuse from; to deactivate (a bomb or other explosive device) or make it ineffective.

Syn. -- deactivate.

3.
To make less dangerous; as, to defuse a tense confrontation between demonstrators and police.


word: defusing
definition:
defusing

defusing
(de̝*fūz"ĭng)
n.
1.
The act of deactivating or making ineffective (as a bomb).

Syn. -- deactivation.


word: defy
definition:
defy

de*fy"
(de̝*fī")
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Defied (de̝*fīd"); p. pr. & vb. n. Defying.]
[F. défier, OF. deffier, desfier, LL. disfidare to disown faith or fidelity, to dissolve the bond of allegiance, as between the vassal and his lord; hence, to challenge, defy; fr. L. dis- + fides faith. See Faith, and cf. Diffident, Affiance.]
1.
To renounce or dissolve all bonds of affiance, faith, or obligation with; to reject, refuse, or renounce.
[Obs.]

I defy the surety and the bond.
Chaucer.

For thee I have defied my constant mistress.
Beau. & Fl.

2.
To provoke to combat or strife; to call out to combat; to challenge; to dare; to brave; to set at defiance; to treat with contempt; as, to defy an enemy; to defy the power of a magistrate; to defy the arguments of an opponent; to defy public opinion.

I once again
Defy thee to the trial of mortal fight.
Milton.

I defy the enemies of our constitution to show the contrary.
Burke.


word: degage
definition:
degage

dé`ga`gé"
(?)
a.
[F., p. p. of dégager to disengage. See De-, 1st Gage, and cf. Disgage.]
Unconstrained; easy; free.
Vanbrugh.
A graceful and dégagé manner.
Poe.


word: degarnish
definition:
degarnish

de*gar"nish
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. degarnished (?); p. pr. & vb. n. degarnishing.]
[F. dégarnir; pref. dé-, des- (L. dis-) + garnir to furnish. See Garnish, and cf. Disgarnish.]
1.
To strip or deprive of entirely, as of furniture, ornaments, etc.; to disgarnish; as, to degarnish a house, etc.
[R.]

2.
To deprive of a garrison, or of troops necessary for defense; as, to degarnish a city or fort.
[R.]
Washington.


word: Degarnishment
definition:
Degarnishment

De*gar"nish*ment
(?)
n.
The act of depriving, as of furniture, apparatus, or a garrison.
[R.]


word: degauss
definition:
degauss

de*gauss"
(de̝*gous")
n.
1.
To make a (steel) ship's hull nonmagnetic by applying an opposing magnetic field.

2.
To remove irregular magnetization in (the electron gun of a cathode-ray tube); -- used to improve picture quality, especially in computer monitors.


word: degaussing
definition:
degaussing

degaussing
n.
the process of making a (steel) ship's hull nonmagnetic by producing an opposing magnetic field.


word: Degener
definition:
Degener

Degender

{ De*gen"der (?), De*gen"er (?), }
v. i.
[See Degenerate.]
To degenerate.
[Obs.]
Degendering
Spenser.

He degenereth into beastliness.
Joye.


word: Degeneracy
definition:
Degeneracy

De*gen"er*a*cy
(?)
n.
[From Degenerate, a.]
1.
The act of becoming degenerate; a growing worse.

Willful degeneracy from goodness.
Tillotson.

2.
The state of having become degenerate; decline in good qualities; deterioration; meanness.

Degeneracy of spirit in a state of slavery.
Addison.

To recover mankind out of their universal corruption and degeneracy.
S. Clarke.


word: Degenerate
definition:
Degenerate

De*gen"er*ate
(?)
a.
[L. degeneratus, p. p. of degenerare to degenerate, cause to degenerate, fr. degener base, degenerate, that departs from its race or kind; de- + genus race, kind. See Kin relationship.]
Having become worse than one's kind, or one's former state; having declined in worth; having lost in goodness; deteriorated; degraded; unworthy; base; low.

Faint-hearted and degenerate king.
Shak.

A degenerate and degraded state.
Milton.

Degenerate from their ancient blood.
Swift.

These degenerate days.
Pope.

I had planted thee a noble vine . . . : how then art thou turned into the degenerate plant of a strange vine unto me?
Jer. ii. 21.


word: Degenerate₂
definition:
Degenerate

De*gen"er*ate
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Degenerated; p. pr. & vb. n. Degenerating.]
1.
To be or grow worse than one's kind, or than one was originally; hence, to be inferior; to grow poorer, meaner, or more vicious; to decline in good qualities; to deteriorate.

When wit transgresseth decency, it degenerates into insolence and impiety.
Tillotson.

2.
(Biol.)
To fall off from the normal quality or the healthy structure of its kind; to become of a lower type.


word: degenerate
definition:
degenerate

de*gen"er*ate
(?)
n.
1.
a person who has declined from a high standard, especially a sexual deviate; -- usually used disparagingly or opprobriously of persons whose sexual behavior does not conform to the norms of accepted morals.

2.
a person or thing that has fallen from a higher to a lower state, or reverted to an earlier type or stage of development or culture.
RHUD


word: Degeneration
definition:
Degeneration

De*gen`er*a"tion
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. dégénération.]
1.
The act or state of growing worse, or the state of having become worse; decline; degradation; debasement; degeneracy; deterioration.

Our degeneration and apostasy.
Bates.

2.
(Physiol.)
That condition of a tissue or an organ in which its vitality has become either diminished or perverted; a substitution of a lower for a higher form of structure; as, fatty degeneration of the liver.

3.
(Biol.)
A gradual deterioration, from natural causes, of any class of animals or plants or any particular organ or organs; hereditary degradation of type.

4.
The thing degenerated.
[R.]

Cockle, aracus, . . . and other degenerations.
Sir T. Browne.

Amyloid degeneration, Caseous degeneration, etc. See under Amyloid, Caseous, etc.


word: Degenerationist
definition:
Degenerationist

De*gen`er*a"tion*ist
n.
(Biol.)
A believer in the theory of degeneration, or hereditary degradation of type; as, the degenerationists hold that savagery is the result of degeneration from a superior state.


word: Degenerous
definition:
Degenerous

De*gen"er*ous
(?)
a.
[L. degener. See Degenerate.]
Degenerate; base.
[Obs.]
Degenerous
Dryden.
Degenerous
South.


word: Degerminator
definition:
Degerminator

De*ger"mi*na`tor
(?)
n.
(Milling)
A machine for breaking open the kernels of wheat or other grain and removing the germs.


word: Deglaze
definition:
Deglaze

De*glaze"
(?)
v. t.
To remove the glaze from, as pottery or porcelain, so as to give a dull finish.


word: Deglazing
definition:
Deglazing

De*glaz"ing
(?)
n.
The process of giving a dull or ground surface to glass by acid or by mechanical means.
Knight.


word: Deglutinate
definition:
Deglutinate

De*glu"ti*nate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deglutinated; p. pr. & vb. n. Deglutinating.]
[L. deglutinatus, p. p. of deglutinare to deglutinate; de- + glutinare to glue, gluten glue.]
To loosen or separate by dissolving the glue which unties; to unglue.


word: Deglutition
definition:
Deglutition

Deg`lu*ti"tion
(?)
n.
[L. deglutire to swallow down; de- + glutire to swallow: cf. F. déglutition. See Glut.]
The act or process of swallowing food; the power of swallowing.

The muscles employed in the act of deglutition.
Paley.


word: Degradation
definition:
Degradation

Deg`ra*da"tion
(?)
n.
[LL. degradatio, from degradare: cf. F. dégradation. See Degrade.]
1.
The act of reducing in rank, character, or reputation, or of abasing; a lowering from one's standing or rank in office or society; diminution; as, the degradation of a peer, a knight, a general, or a bishop.

He saw many removes and degradations in all the other offices of which he had been possessed.
Clarendon.

2.
The state of being reduced in rank, character, or reputation; baseness; moral, physical, or intellectual degeneracy; disgrace; abasement; debasement.

The . . . degradation of a needy man of letters.
Macaulay.

Deplorable is the degradation of our nature.
South.

Moments there frequently must be, when a sinner is sensible of the degradation of his state.
Blair.

3.
Diminution or reduction of strength, efficacy, or value; degeneration; deterioration.

The development and degradation of the alphabetic forms can be traced.
I. Taylor (The Alphabet).

4.
(Geol.)
A gradual wearing down or wasting, as of rocks and banks, by the action of water, frost etc.

5.
(Biol.)
The state or condition of a species or group which exhibits degraded forms; degeneration.

The degradation of the species man is observed in some of its varieties.
Dana.

6.
(Physiol.)
Arrest of development, or degeneration of any organ, or of the body as a whole.

Degradation of energy, or Dissipation of energy (Physics), the transformation of energy into some form in which it is less available for doing work.


word: Degrade
definition:
Degrade

De*grade"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Degraded; p. pr. & vb. n. Degrading.]
[F. dégrader, LL. degradare, fr. L. de- + gradus step, degree. See Grade, and cf. Degree.]
1.
To reduce from a higher to a lower rank or degree; to lower in rank; to deprive of office or dignity; to strip of honors; as, to degrade a nobleman, or a general officer.

Prynne was sentenced by the Star Chamber Court to be degraded from the bar.
Palfrey.

2.
To reduce in estimation, character, or reputation; to lessen the value of; to lower the physical, moral, or intellectual character of; to debase; to bring shame or contempt upon; to disgrace; as, vice degrades a man.

O miserable mankind, to what fall
Degraded, to what wretched state reserved!
Milton.

Yet time ennobles or degrades each line.
Pope.

Her pride . . . struggled hard against this degrading passion.
Macaulay.

3.
(Geol.)
To reduce in altitude or magnitude, as hills and mountains; to wear down.


word: Degrade₂
definition:
Degrade

De*grade"
v. i.
(Biol.)
To degenerate; to pass from a higher to a lower type of structure; as, a family of plants or animals degrades through this or that genus or group of genera.


word: Degraded
definition:
Degraded

De*grad"ed
(?)
a.
1.
Reduced in rank, character, or reputation; debased; sunken; low; base.

The Netherlands . . . were reduced practically to a very degraded condition.
Motley.

2.
(Biol.)
Having the typical characters or organs in a partially developed condition, or lacking certain parts.

Some families of plants are degraded dicotyledons.
Dana.

3.
[Cf. F. degré step.]
(Her.)
Having steps; -- said of a cross each of whose extremities finishes in steps growing larger as they leave the center; -- termed also on degrees.


word: Degras
definition:
Degras

&VerbarDé`gras" (?), Deg"ras (_;)
n.
[F.; cf. F. gras, a. & n., fat.]
A semisolid emulsion produced by the treatment of certain skins with oxidized fish oil, which extracts their soluble albuminoids.  It was formerly solely a by-product of chamois leather manufacture, but is now made for its own sake, being valuable as a dressing for hides.


word: Degravation
definition:
Degravation

Deg`ra*va"tion
(?)
n.
[L. degravare, degravatum, to make heavy. See Grave, a.]
The act of making heavy.
[Obs.]
Bailey.


word: Degree
definition:
Degree

De*gree"
(?)
n.
[F. degré, OF. degret, fr. LL. degradare. See Degrade.]
1.
A step, stair, or staircase.
[Obs.]

By ladders, or else by degree.
Rom. of R.

2.
One of a series of progressive steps upward or downward, in quality, rank, acquirement, and the like; a stage in progression; grade; gradation; as, degrees of vice and virtue; to advance by slow degrees; degree of comparison.

3.
The point or step of progression to which a person has arrived; rank or station in life; position.
degree
Dryden.
degree
Shak.
degree
Lowell.

4.
Measure of advancement; quality; extent; as, tastes differ in kind as well as in degree.

The degree of excellence which proclaims genius, is different in different times and different places.
Sir. J. Reynolds.

5.
Grade or rank to which scholars are admitted by a college or university, in recognition of their attainments; also, (informal) the diploma provided by an educational institution attesting to the achievement of that rank; as, the degree of bachelor of arts, master, doctor, etc.; to hang one's degrees on the office wall.

&hand_; In the United States diplomas are usually given as the evidence of a degree conferred. In the humanities the first degree is that of bachelor of arts (B. A. or A. B.); the second that of master of arts (M. A. or A. M.). The degree of bachelor (of arts, science, divinity, law, etc.) is conferred upon those who complete a prescribed course of undergraduate study. The first degree in medicine is that of doctor of medicine (M. D.). The degrees of master and doctor are also conferred, in course, upon those who have completed certain prescribed postgraduate studies, as doctor of philosophy (Ph. D.); the degree of doctor is also conferred as a complimentary recognition of eminent services in science or letters, or for public services or distinction (as doctor of laws (LL. D.) or doctor of divinity (D. D.), when they are called honorary degrees.

The youth attained his bachelor's degree, and left the university.
Macaulay.

6.
(Genealogy)
A certain distance or remove in the line of descent, determining the proximity of blood; one remove in the chain of relationship; as, a relation in the third or fourth degree.

In the 11th century an opinion began to gain ground in Italy, that third cousins might marry, being in the seventh degree according to the civil law.
Hallam.

7.
(Arith.)
Three figures taken together in numeration; thus, 140 is one degree, 222,140 two degrees.

8.
(Algebra)
State as indicated by sum of exponents; more particularly, the degree of a term is indicated by the sum of the exponents of its literal factors; thus, a2b3c is a term of the sixth degree. The degree of a power, or radical, is denoted by its index, that of an equation by the greatest sum of the exponents of the unknown quantities in any term; thus, ax4 + bx2 = c, and mx2y2 + nyx = p, are both equations of the fourth degree.

9.
(Trig.)
A 360th part of the circumference of a circle, which part is taken as the principal unit of measure for arcs and angles. The degree is divided into 60 minutes and the minute into 60 seconds.

10.
A division, space, or interval, marked on a mathematical or other instrument, as on a thermometer.
11.
(Mus.)
A line or space of the staff.

&hand_; The short lines and their spaces are added degrees.

Accumulation of degrees. (Eng. Univ.) See under Accumulation. -- By degrees, step by step; by little and little; by moderate advances. “I'll leave it by degrees.” Shak. -- Degree of a curve or Degree of a surface (Geom.), the number which expresses the degree of the equation of the curve or surface in rectilinear coordinates.  A straight line will, in general, meet the curve or surface in a number of points equal to the degree of the curve or surface and no more. -- Degree of latitude (Geog.), on the earth, the distance on a meridian between two parallels of latitude whose latitudes differ from each other by one degree.  This distance is not the same on different parts of a meridian, on account of the flattened figure of the earth, being 68.702 statute miles at the equator, and 69.396 at the poles. -- Degree of longitude, the distance on a parallel of latitude between two meridians that make an angle of one degree with each other at the poles -- a distance which varies as the cosine of the latitude, being at the equator 69.16 statute miles. -- To a degree, to an extreme; exceedingly; as, mendacious to a degree.

It has been said that Scotsmen . . . are . . . grave to a degree on occasions when races more favored by nature are gladsome to excess.
Prof. Wilson.


word: degressive
definition:
degressive

degressive
adj.
1.
going down by steps.

2.
gradually decreasing in rate on sums below a certain amount.


word: Degu
definition:
Degu

De"gu
(?)
n.
[Native name.]
(Zool.)
A small South American rodent (Octodon Cumingii), of the family Octodontidæ.


word: Degum
definition:
Degum

De*gum"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Degummed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Degumming.]
To deprive of, or free from, gum; as, to degum ramie.


word: Degust
definition:
Degust

De*gust"
(?)
v. t.
[L. degustare: cf. F. déguster. See Gust to taste.]
To taste.
[Obs.]
Cockeram.


word: Degustation
definition:
Degustation

Deg`us*ta"tion
(?)
n.
[L. degustatio: cf. F. dégustation.]
(Physiol.)
Tasting; the appreciation of sapid qualities by the taste organs.
Bp. Hall.


word: Dehisce
definition:
Dehisce

De*hisce"
(?)
v. i.
[L. dehiscere; de- + hiscere to gape.]
To gape; to open by dehiscence.


word: Dehiscence
definition:
Dehiscence

De*his"cence
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. déhiscence.]
1.
The act of gaping.

2.
(Biol.)
A gaping or bursting open along a definite line of attachment or suture, without tearing, as in the opening of pods, or the bursting of capsules at maturity so as to emit seeds, etc.; also, the bursting open of follicles, as in the ovaries of animals, for the expulsion of their contents.


word: Dehiscent
definition:
Dehiscent

De*his"cent
(?)
a.
[L. dehiscens, -entis, p. pr. Cf. F. déhiscent.]
Characterized by dehiscence; opening in some definite way, as the capsule of a plant.


word: Dehonestate
definition:
Dehonestate

De`ho*nes"tate
(?)
v. t.
[L. dehonestatus, p. p. of dehonestare to dishonor; de- + honestare to make honorable. Cf. Dishonest, and see Honest.]
To disparage.
[Obs.]


word: Dehonestation
definition:
Dehonestation

De*hon`es*ta"tion
(?)
n.
[L. dehonestatio.]
A dishonoring; disgracing.
[Obs.]
Gauden.


word: Dehorn
definition:
Dehorn

De*horn"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Dehorned (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Dehorning.]
To deprive of horns; to prevent the growth of the horns of (cattle) by burning their ends soon after they start. See Dishorn.
Dehorning
Farm Journal (1886).


word: Dehors
definition:
Dehors

De*hors"
(?)
prep.
[F., outside.]
(Law)
Out of; without; foreign to; out of the agreement, record, will, or other instrument.


word: Dehors₂
definition:
Dehors

De*hors"
n.
(Mil.)
All sorts of outworks in general, at a distance from the main works; any advanced works for protection or cover.
Farrow.


word: Dehort
definition:
Dehort

De*hort"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Dehorted; p. pr. & vb. n. Dehorting.]
[L. dehortari; de- + hortari to urge, exhort.]
To urge to abstain or refrain; to dissuade.
[Obs.]

The apostles vehemently dehort us from unbelief.
Bp. Ward.

“Exhort” remains, but dehort, a word whose place neither “dissuade” nor any other exactly supplies, has escaped us.
Trench.


word: Dehortatory
definition:
Dehortatory

De*hort"a*to*ry
(?)
a.
[L. dehortatorius.]
Fitted or designed to dehort or dissuade.
Bp. Hall.


word: Dehumanize
definition:
Dehumanize

De*hu"man*ize
(?)
v. t.
To divest of human qualities, such as pity, tenderness, etc.; as, dehumanizing influences.


word: dehumidify
definition:
dehumidify

de*hu*mid"i*fy
v. t.
to remove the moisture from (air or another gas); to reduce the humidity of; as, The air conditioner dehumidifies the air in the summer.

Syn. -- make less humid.


word: dehydrate
definition:
dehydrate

de*hy"drate
(?)
v. t.
To deprive of water; to render free from water; as, to dehydrate alcohol; to dehydrate food for preservation.


word: dehydrate₂
definition:
dehydrate

de*hy"drate
(?)
v. i.
1.
to lose water or moisture.

2.
to lose sufficent water to cause physiological distress; -- of living organisms; as, victims trapped in the earthquake rubble may dehydrate if not found quickly.


word: dehydrated
definition:
dehydrated

dehydrated
adj.
1.
thoroughly dried out.

Syn. -- desiccated, dried-out.

2.
suffering from fluid deprivation; as, to become deydrated from overexertion on a hot day.


word: Dehydration
definition:
Dehydration

De`hy*dra"tion
(?)
n.
(Chem.)
The act or process of freeing from water; also, the condition of a body from which the water has been removed.


word: Dehydrogenation
definition:
Dehydrogenation

De*hy`dro*gen*a"tion
(?)
n.
(Chem.)
The act or process of freeing from hydrogen; also, the condition resulting from the removal of hydrogen.


word: deicer
definition:
deicer

deicer
n.
a devie that removes ice or frost (as from a windshield or a refrigerator or the wings of an airplane).

Syn. -- defroster.


word: Deicide
definition:
Deicide

De"i*cide
(?)
n.
[L. deicida a deicide (in sense 2); deus god + cædere to cut, kill: cf. F. déicide.]
1.
The act of killing a being of a divine nature; particularly, the putting to death of Jesus Christ.
[R.]

Earth profaned, yet blessed, with deicide.
Prior.

2.
One concerned in putting Christ to death.


word: Deictic
definition:
Deictic

Deic"tic
(dīk"tĭk)
a.
[Gr. deiktiko`s serving to show or point out, fr. deikny`nai to show.]
1.
(Logic)
Direct; proving directly; -- applied to reasoning, and opposed to elenchtic or refutative.

2.
(Grammar)
showing or pointing to directly; pertaining to deixis; -- used to designate words that specify identity, location, or time from the perspective of one of the participants in a discourse, using the  surrounding context as reference; as, the words this, that, these, those, here, there, now, then, we, you, they, the former, and the latter serve a deictic function.


word: Deictically
definition:
Deictically

Deic"tic*al*ly
(?)
adv.
In a manner to show or point out; directly; absolutely; definitely.

When Christ spake it deictically.
Hammond.


word: Deifical
definition:
Deifical

Deific

{ De*if"ic (?), De*if"ic*al (?), }
a.
[L. deificus; deus god + facere to make: cf. F. déifique.]
Making divine; producing a likeness to God; god-making.
deifical
Homilies.


word: Deification
definition:
Deification

De`i*fi*ca"tion
(?)
n.
[LL. deificare to deify: cf. F. déification. See Deify.]
The act of deifying; exaltation to divine honors; apotheosis; excessive praise.


word: Deiform
definition:
Deiform

De"i*form
(?)
a.
[L. deus a god + -form.]
1.
Godlike, or of a godlike form.
Dr. H. More.

2.
Conformable to the will of God.
[R.]
Bp. Burnet.


word: Deify
definition:
Deify

De"i*fy
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deified (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deifying.]
[F. déifier, LL. deificare, fr. L. deificus. See Deific, Deity, -fy.]
1.
To make a god of; to exalt to the rank of a deity; to enroll among the deities; to apotheosize; as, Julius Cæsar was deified.

2.
To praise or revere as a deity; to treat as an object of supreme regard; as, to deify money.

He did again so extol and deify the pope.
Bacon.

3.
To render godlike.

By our own spirits are we deified.
Wordsworth.


word: Deign
definition:
Deign

Deign
(dān)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deigned (dānd); p. pr. & vb. n. Deigning.]
[OE. deinen, deignen, OF. degner, deigner, daigner, F. daigner, fr. L. dignari to deem worthy, deign, fr. dignus worthy; akin to decere to be fitting. See Decent, and cf. Dainty, Dignity, Condign, Disdain.]
1.
To esteem worthy; to consider worth notice; -- opposed to disdain.
[Obs.]

I fear my Julia would not deign my lines.
Shak.

2.
To condescend to give or bestow; to stoop to furnish; to vouchsafe; to allow; to grant.

Nor would we deign him burial of his men.
Shak.


word: Deign₂
definition:
Deign

Deign
v. i.
To think worthy; to vouchsafe; to condescend; - - followed by an infinitive.

O deign to visit our forsaken seats.
Pope.

Yet not Lord Cranstone deigned she greet.
Sir W. Scott.

Round turned he, as not deigning
Those craven ranks to see.
Macaulay.

In early English deign was often used impersonally.

Him deyneth not to set his foot to ground.
Chaucer.


word: Deignous
definition:
Deignous

Deign"ous
(?)
a.
[For disdeignous, OF. desdeignos, desdaigneus, F. dédaigneux. See Disdain.]
Haughty; disdainful.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: Deintegrate
definition:
Deintegrate

De*in"te*grate
(?)
v. t.
[L. deintegrare to impair; de- + integrare to make whole.]
To disintegrate.
[Obs.]


word: Deintevous
definition:
Deintevous

Deinteous

{ Dein"te*ous (?), Dein"te*vous (?) }
a.
Rare; excellent; costly.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: deionize
definition:
deionize

de*i"on*ize`
v. t.
1.
(Chem.)
to remove ions from (a solution).

2.
to reassociate the ions of (an ionized gas).
RHUD


word: deionized
definition:
deionized

de*i"on*ized`
a.
(Chem.)
freed from ions by a process of deionization; as, deionized water.
In chemistry and biochemistry, experiments often require water free from contaminating ions, and  the ordinary distilled water may be subjected to a process of deionization in order to render the ion content sufficiently low so as not to interfere with the investigation.


word: deionizer
definition:
deionizer

de*i"on*iz`er
n.
(Chem.)
an apparatus used to remove ions from a solution; a common variant contains a mixture of cation exchange resin in the acid form and anion exchange resin in the hydroxyl form inside a replaceable cartridge; ions in aqueous solution are exchanged for the elements of water by passing the solution through the mixed resin.
In chemistry and biochemistry, experiments often require water free from contaminating ions, and ordinary distilled water may be further purified by passing through a deionizer in order to render the ion content sufficiently low so as not to interfere with the investigation.


word: deiparous
definition:
deiparous

de*ip"a*rous
(de̝*ĭp"ȧ*rŭs)
a.
[L. deus a god + parere to bring forth.]
Bearing or bringing forth a god; -- said of the Virgin Mary.
[Obs.]
Bailey.


word: Deipnosophist
definition:
Deipnosophist

Deip*nos"o*phist
(dīp*n&obreve_;s"o̝*fĭst)
n.
[Gr. deipnosofisth`s; dei^pnon a meal + sofisth`s a wise man, sophist.]
One of an ancient sect of philosophers, who cultivated learned conversation at meals.


word: Deism
definition:
Deism

De"ism
(dē"ĭz'm)
n.
[L. deus god: cf. F. déisme. See Deity.]
The doctrine or creed of a deist; the belief or system of those who acknowledge the existence of one God, but deny revelation.

&hand_; Deism is the belief in natural religion only, or those truths, in doctrine and practice, which man is to discover by the light of reason, independent of any revelation from God. Hence, deism implies infidelity, or a disbelief in the divine origin of the Scriptures.


word: Deist
definition:
Deist

De"ist
(dē"ĭst)
n.
[L. deus god: cf. F. déiste. See Deity.]
One who believes in the existence of a God, but denies revealed religion; a freethinker.

&hand_; A deist, as denying a revelation, is opposed to a Christian; as, opposed to the denier of a God, whether atheist or pantheist, a deist is generally denominated theist.
Latham.


word: Deistical
definition:
Deistical

Deistic

{ De*is"tic (de̝*ĭs"tĭk), De*is"tic*al (?), }
a.
Pertaining to, savoring of, or consisting in, deism; as, a deistic writer; a deistical book.

The deistical or antichristian scheme.
I. Watts.


word: Deity
definition:
Deity

De"i*ty
(dē"ĭ*t&ybreve_;)
n.
pl. Deities (dē"ĭ*tĭz).
[OE. deite, F. déité, fr. L. deitas, fr. deus a god; akin to divus divine, Jupiter, gen. Jovis, Jupiter, dies day, Gr. di^os divine, Zey`s, gen. Dio`s, Zeus, Skr. dēva divine, as a noun, god, daiva divine, dy&omacr sky, day, hence, the sky personified as a god, and to the first syllable of E. Tuesday, Gael. & Ir. dia God, W. duw. Cf. Divine, Journey, Journal, Tuesday.]
1.
The collection of attributes which make up the nature of a god; divinity; godhead; as, the deity of the Supreme Being is seen in his works.

They declared with emphasis the perfect deity and the perfect manhood of Christ.
Milman.

2.
A god or goddess; a heathen god.

To worship calves, the deities
Of Egypt.
Milton.

The Deity, God, the Supreme Being.

This great poet and philosopher [Simonides], the more he contemplated the nature of the Deity, found that he waded but the more out of his depth.
Addison.


word: deixis
definition:
deixis

deixis
(dīk"sĭs)
n.
(Grammar)
the function or operation of a deictic word; the function of pointing or specifying from the perspective of a participant in an act of speech or writing; aspects of a communication whose interpretation depends on knowledge of the context in which the communication occurs.


word: Deject
definition:
Deject

De*ject"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Dejected; p. pr. & vb. n. Dejecting.]
[L. dejectus, p. p. of dejicere to throw down; de- + jacere to throw. See Jet a shooting forth.]
1.
To cast down.
[Obs. or Archaic]

Christ dejected himself even unto the hells.
Udall.

Sometimes she dejects her eyes in a seeming civility; and many mistake in her a cunning for a modest look.
Fuller.

2.
To cast down the spirits of; to dispirit; to discourage; to dishearten.

Nor think, to die dejects my lofty mind.
Pope.


word: Dejecta
definition:
Dejecta

De*jec"ta
(?)
n. pl.
[NL., neut. pl. from L. dejectus, p. p.]
Excrements; as, the dejecta of the sick.


word: Dejected
definition:
Dejected

De*ject"ed
a.
Cast down; afflicted; low-spirited; sad; as, a dejected look or countenance.
De*ject"ed*ly, adv. -- De*ject"ed*ness, n.


word: Dejection
definition:
Dejection

De*jec"tion
(?)
n.
[L. dejectio a casting down: cf. F. déjection.]
1.
A casting down; depression.
[Obs. or Archaic]
Hallywell.

2.
The act of humbling or abasing one's self.

Adoration implies submission and dejection.
Bp. Pearson.

3.
Lowness of spirits occasioned by grief or misfortune; mental depression; melancholy.

What besides,
Of sorrow, and dejection, and despair,
Our frailty can sustain, thy tidings bring.
Milton.

4.
A low condition; weakness; inability.
[R.]

A dejection of appetite.
Arbuthnot.

5.
(Physiol.)
(a)
The discharge of excrement.
(b)
Fæces; excrement.
Ray.


word: Dejectory
definition:
Dejectory

De*jec"to*ry
(?)
a.
[L. dejector a dejecter.]
1.
Having power, or tending, to cast down.

2.
Promoting evacuations by stool.
Ferrand.


word: Dejerate
definition:
Dejerate

Dej"er*ate
(?)
v. i.
[L. dejeratus, p. p. of dejerare to swear; de- + jurare to swear.]
To swear solemnly; to take an oath.
[Obs.]
Cockeram.


word: Dejeuner
definition:
Dejeuner

Dé`jeu`ner"
(?)
n.
[F. déjeuner breakfast, as a verb, to breakfast. Cf. Dinner.]
A breakfast; sometimes, also, a lunch or collation.


word: del
definition:
del

del
n.
(Math.)
a differential operator which, operating on a function of several variables, gives the sum of the partial derivatives of the function with respect to the three orthogonal spatial coordinates; -- also called the gradient or grad.  It is represented by an inverted Greek capital delta (∇), and is thus because of its shape also called nabla, meaning harp in Hebrew.


word: Delaceration
definition:
Delaceration

De*lac`er*a"tion
(?)
n.
[L. delacerare, delaceratum, to tear in pieces. See Lacerate.]
A tearing in pieces.
[Obs.]
Bailey.


word: Delacrymation
definition:
Delacrymation

De*lac`ry*ma"tion
(?)
n.
[L. delacrimatio, fr. delacrimare to weep. See Lachrymation.]
An involuntary discharge of watery humors from the eyes; wateriness of the eyes.
[Obs.]
Bailey.


word: Delactation
definition:
Delactation

De`lac*ta"tion
(?)
n.
[Pref. de- + L. lactare to suck milk, from lac milk.]
The act of weaning.
[Obs.]
Bailey.


word: Delaine
definition:
Delaine

De*laine"
(?)
n.
[See Muslin delaine, under Muslin.]
A kind of fabric for women's dresses.


word: Delamination
definition:
Delamination

De*lam`i*na"tion
(?)
n.
(Biol.)
Formation and separation of laminæ or layers; one of the methods by which the various blastodermic layers of the ovum are differentiated.

&hand_; This process consists of a concentric splitting of the cells of the blastosphere into an outer layer (epiblast) and an inner layer (hypoblast). By the perforation of the resultant two-walled vesicle, a gastrula results similar to that formed by the process of invagination.


word: Delapse
definition:
Delapse

De*lapse"
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Delapsed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Delapsing.]
[L. delapsus, p. p. of delabi to fall down; de- + labi to fall or side.]
To pass down by inheritance; to lapse.
[Obs.]

Which Anne derived alone the right, before all other,
Of the delapsed crown from Philip.
Drayton.


word: Delassation
definition:
Delassation

De`las*sa"tion
(?)
n.
[L. delassare, delassatum, to tire out; de- + lassare to tire.]
Fatigue.

Able to continue without delassation.
Ray.


word: Delate
definition:
Delate

De*late"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Delated; p. pr. & vb. n. Delating.]
[L. delatus, used as p. p. of deferre. See Tolerate, and cf. 3d Defer, Delay, v.]
[Obs. or Archaic]
1.
To carry; to convey.

Try exactly the time wherein sound is delated.
Bacon.

2.
To carry abroad; to spread; to make public.

When the crime is delated or notorious.
Jer. Taylor.

3.
To carry or bring against, as a charge; to inform against; to accuse; to denounce.

As men were delated, they were marked down for such a fine.
Bp. Burnet.

4.
To carry on; to conduct.
Warner.


word: Delation
definition:
Delation

De*la"tion
(?)
n.
[L. delatio accusation: cf. F. délation.]
1.
Conveyance.
[Obs. or Archaic]

In delation of sounds, the inclosure of them preserveth them.
Bacon.

2.
(Law)
Accusation by an informer.
Milman.


word: Delaware
definition:
Delaware

Del"a*ware
(dĕl"ȧ*wâr)
n.
1.
one of the thirteen original states of the United States of America.

2.
(Bot.)
An American grape, with compact bunches of small, amber-colored berries, sweet and of a good flavor.


word: Delawares
definition:
Delawares

Del"a*wares
(dĕl"ȧ*wârz)
n. pl.
sing. Delaware.
(Ethnol.)
A tribe of Indians formerly inhabiting the valley of the Delaware River, but now mostly located in the Indian Territory.


word: Delay
definition:
Delay

De*lay"
(?)
n.
pl. Delays (#).
[F. délai, fr. OF. deleer to delay, or fr. L. dilatum, which, though really from a different root, is used in Latin only as a p. p. neut. of differre to carry apart, defer, delay. See Tolerate, and cf. Differ, Delay, v.]
A putting off or deferring; procrastination; lingering inactivity; stop; detention; hindrance.

Without any delay, on the morrow I sat on the judgment seat.
Acts xxv. 17.

The government ought to be settled without the delay of a day.
Macaulay.


word: Delay₂
definition:
Delay

De*lay"
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Delayed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Delaying.]
[OF. deleer, delaier, fr. the noun délai, or directly fr. L. dilatare to enlarge, dilate, in LL., to put off. See Delay, n., and cf. Delate, 1st Defer, Dilate.]
1.
To put off; to defer; to procrastinate; to prolong the time of or before.

My lord delayeth his coming.
Matt. xxiv. 48.

2.
To retard; to stop, detain, or hinder, for a time; to retard the motion, or time of arrival, of; as, the mail is delayed by a heavy fall of snow.

Thyrsis! whose artful strains have oft delayed
The huddling brook to hear his madrigal.
Milton.

3.
To allay; to temper.
[Obs.]

The watery showers delay the raging wind.
Surrey.


word: Delay₃
definition:
Delay

De*lay"
v. i.
To move slowly; to stop for a time; to linger; to tarry.

There seem to be certain bounds to the quickness and slowness of the succession of those ideas, . . . beyond which they can neither delay nor hasten.
Locke.


word: Del credere
definition:
Del credere

Del` cred"er*e
(?)
[It., of belief or trust.]
(Mercantile Law)
An agreement by which an agent or factor, in consideration of an additional premium or commission (called a del credere commission), engages, when he sells goods on credit, to insure, warrant, or guarantee to his principal the solvency of the purchaser, the engagement of the factor being to pay the debt himself if it is not punctually discharged by the buyer when it becomes due.


word: Dele
definition:
Dele

De"le
(?)
imperative sing.
of L. delere to destroy
[Cf. Delete.]
(Print.)
Erase; remove; -- a direction to cancel something which has been put in type; usually expressed by a peculiar form of d, thus: &deletemark_;.


word: Dele₂
definition:
Dele

De"le
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deled (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deleing.]
[From the preceding word.]
(Print.)
To erase; to cancel; to delete; to mark for omission.


word: Deleble
definition:
Deleble

Del"e*ble
(?; 277)
a.
[L. delebilis. See 1st Dele.]
Capable of being blotted out or erased.
deleble
Fuller.


word: Delectable
definition:
Delectable

De*lec"ta*ble
(?)
a.
[OF. delitable, OF. delitable, F. délectable, fr. L. delectabilis, fr. delectare to delight. See Delight.]
1.
Highly pleasing; delightful.

Delectable both to behold and taste.
Milton.
2.
extremely pleasing to the sense of taste; same as luscious, 1.

Syn. -- delicious, luscious, pleasant-tasting, scrumptious, toothsome, yummy.


word: Delectate
definition:
Delectate

De*lec"tate
(?)
v. t.
[L. delectatus, p. p. of delectare. See Delight.]
To delight; to charm.
[R.]


word: Delectus
definition:
Delectus

De*lec"tus
(?)
n.
[L., selection, from deligere, delectum, to select.]
A name given to an elementary book for learners of Latin or Greek.
G. Eliot.


word: Delegacy
definition:
Delegacy

Del`e*ga*cy
(?)
n.
[From Delegate, a.]
1.
The act of delegating, or state of being delegated; deputed power.
[Obs.]

By way of delegacy or grand commission.
Sir W. Raleigh.

2.
A body of delegates or commissioners; a delegation.
[Obs.]
Burton.


word: Delegate
definition:
Delegate

Del"e*gate
(?)
n.
[L. delegatus, p. p. of delegare to send, delegate; de- + legare to send with a commission, to depute. See Legate.]
1.
Any one sent and empowered to act for another; one deputed to represent; a chosen deputy; a representative; a commissioner; a vicar.

2.
(a)
One elected by the people of a territory to represent them in Congress, where he has the right of debating, but not of voting.
(b)
One sent by any constituency to act as its representative in a convention; as, a delegate to a convention for nominating officers, or for forming or altering a constitution.
[U.S.]

Court of delegates, formerly, the great court of appeal from the archbishops' courts and also from the court of admiralty. It is now abolished, and the privy council is the immediate court of appeal in such cases. [Eng.]


word: Delegate₂
definition:
Delegate

Del"e*gate
(?)
a.
[L. delegatus, p. p.]
Sent to act for or represent another; deputed; as, a delegate judge.
Delegate
Strype.


word: Delegate₃
definition:
Delegate

Del"e*gate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Delegated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Delegating (?).]
1.
To send as one's representative; to empower as an ambassador; to send with power to transact business; to commission; to depute; to authorize.

2.
To intrust to the care or management of another; to transfer; to assign; to commit.

The delegated administration of the law.
Locke.

Delegated executive power.
Bancroft.

The power exercised by the legislature is the people's power, delegated by the people to the legislative.
J. B. Finch.


word: delegating
definition:
delegating

delegating
n.
the act or process of authorizing subordinates to make certain decisions.

Syn. -- delegation, relegating, relegation, deputation.


word: Delegation
definition:
Delegation

Del`e*ga"tion
(?)
n.
[L. delegatio: cf. F. délégation.]
1.
The act of delegating, or investing with authority to act for another; the appointment of a delegate or delegates.

2.
One or more persons appointed or chosen, and commissioned to represent others, as in a convention, in Congress, etc.; the collective body of delegates; as, the delegation from Massachusetts; a deputation.

3.
(Rom. Law)
A kind of novation by which a debtor, to be liberated from his creditor, gives him a third person, who becomes obliged in his stead to the creditor, or to the person appointed by him.
Pothier.


word: Delegatory
definition:
Delegatory

Del"e*ga*to*ry
(?)
a.
[L. delegatorius pert. to an assignment.]
Holding a delegated position.
Nash.


word: Delenifical
definition:
Delenifical

Del`e*nif"ic*al
(?)
a.
[L. delenificus; delenire to soothe + facere to make. See Lenient.]
Assuaging pain.
[Obs.]
Bailey.


word: Delete
definition:
Delete

De*lete"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deleted; p. pr. & vb. n. Deleting.]
[L. deletus, p. p. of delere to destroy. Cf. 1st Dele.]
To blot out; to erase; to expunge; to dele; to omit.

I have, therefore, . . . inserted eleven stanzas which do not appear in Sir Walter Scott's version, and have deleted eight.
Aytoun.


word: Deleterious
definition:
Deleterious

Del`e*te"ri*ous
(?)
a.
[LL. deleterius noxious, Gr. dhlhth`rios, fr. dhlei^sqai to hurt, damage; prob. akin to L. delere to destroy.]
Hurtful; noxious; destructive; pernicious; as, a deleterious plant or quality; a deleterious example.
Del`e*te"ri*ous*ly, adv. -- Del`e*te"ri*ous*ness, n.


word: Deletery
definition:
Deletery

Del"e*ter*y
(?)
a.
[LL. deleterius: cf. F. délétère.]
Destructive; poisonous.
[Obs.]
Deletery
Hudibras.


word: Deletery₂
definition:
Deletery

Del"e*ter*y
n.
That which destroys.
[Obs.]

They [the Scriptures] are the only deletery of heresies.
Jer. Taylor.


word: Deletion
definition:
Deletion

De*le"tion
(?)
n.
[L. deletio, fr. delere. See Delete.]
Act of deleting, blotting out, or erasing; destruction.
[Obs.]
Jer. Taylor.

A total deletion of every person of the opposing party.
Sir M. Hale.


word: Deletitious
definition:
Deletitious

Del`e*ti"tious
(?)
a.
[L. deleticius.]
Of such a nature that anything may be erased from it; -- said of paper.


word: Delf
definition:
Delf

Delf
(dĕlf)
n.
[AS. delf a delving, digging. See Delve.]
A mine; a quarry; a pit dug; a ditch.
[Written also delft, and delve.]
[Obs.]

The delfts would be so flown with waters, that no gins or machines could . . . keep them dry.
Ray.


word: Delftware
definition:
Delftware

Delft"ware`
(?)
n.
(a)
Pottery made at the city of Delft in Holland; hence:
(b)
Earthenware made in imitation of the above; any glazed earthenware made for table use, and the like.


word: Delibate
definition:
Delibate

Del"i*bate
(?)
v. t.
[L. delibatus, p. p. of delibare to taste; de- + libare to taste.]
To taste; to take a sip of; to dabble in.
[Obs.]


word: Delibation
definition:
Delibation

Del`i*ba"tion
(?)
n.
[L. delibatio: cf. F. délibation.]
Act of tasting; a slight trial.
[Obs.]
Berkeley.


word: Deliberate
definition:
Deliberate

De*lib"er*ate
(de̝*lĭb"ẽr*a̝t)
a.
[L. deliberatus, p. p. of deliberare to deliberate; de- + librare to weigh. See Librate.]
1.
Weighing facts and arguments with a view to a choice or decision; carefully considering the probable consequences of a step; circumspect; slow in determining; -- applied to persons; as, a deliberate judge or counselor.
deliberate
Shak.

2.
Formed with deliberation; well-advised; carefully considered; not sudden or rash; as, a deliberate opinion; a deliberate measure or result.

Settled visage and deliberate word.
Shak.

3.
Not hasty or sudden; slow.
Hooker.

His enunciation was so deliberate.
W. Wirt.
4.
having awareness of the likely consequences; intentional.


word: Deliberate₂
definition:
Deliberate

De*lib"er*ate
(de̝*lĭb"ẽr*āt)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deliberated; p. pr. & vb. n. Deliberating.]
To weigh in the mind; to consider the reasons for and against; to consider maturely; to reflect upon; to ponder; as, to deliberate a question.


word: Deliberate₃
definition:
Deliberate

De*lib"er*ate
v. i.
To take counsel with one's self; to weigh the arguments for and against a proposed course of action; to reflect; to consider; to hesitate in deciding; -- sometimes with on, upon, about, concerning.

The woman that deliberates is lost.
Addison.


word: Deliberately
definition:
Deliberately

De*lib"er*ate*ly
(?)
adv.
With careful consideration, or deliberation; circumspectly; warily; not hastily or rashly; slowly; as, a purpose deliberately formed.


word: Deliberateness
definition:
Deliberateness

De*lib"er*ate*ness
n.
The quality of being deliberate; calm consideration; circumspection.


word: Deliberation
definition:
Deliberation

De*lib`er*a"tion
(?)
n.
[L. deliberatio: cf. F. délibération.]
1.
The act of deliberating, or of weighing and examining the reasons for and against a choice or measure; careful consideration; mature reflection.

Choosing the fairest way with a calm deliberation.
W. Montagu.

2.
Careful discussion and examination of the reasons for and against a measure; as, the deliberations of a legislative body or council.


word: Deliberative
definition:
Deliberative

De*lib"er*a*tive
(?)
a.
[L. deliberativus: cf. F. délibératif.]
Pertaining to deliberation; proceeding or acting by deliberation, or by discussion and examination; deliberating; as, a deliberative body.

A consummate work of deliberative wisdom.
Bancroft.

The court of jurisdiction is to be distinguished from the deliberative body, the advisers of the crown.
Hallam.


word: Deliberative₂
definition:
Deliberative

De*lib"er*a*tive
n.
1.
A discourse in which a question is discussed, or weighed and examined.
Bacon.

2.
A kind of rhetoric employed in proving a thing and convincing others of its truth, in order to persuade them to adopt it.


word: Delibrate
definition:
Delibrate

Del"i*brate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Delibrated; p. pr. & vb. n. Delibrating.]
[L. delibratus, p. p. of delibrare to delibrate; de from + liber bark.]
To strip off the bark; to peel.
[Obs.]
Ash.


word: Delicacy
definition:
Delicacy

Del"i*ca*cy
(?)
n.
pl. Delicacies (#).
[From Delicate, a.]
1.
The state or condition of being delicate; agreeableness to the senses; delightfulness; as, delicacy of flavor, of odor, and the like.

What choice to choose for delicacy best.
Milton.

2.
Nicety or fineness of form, texture, or constitution; softness; elegance; smoothness; tenderness; and hence, frailty or weakness; as, the delicacy of a fiber or a thread; delicacy of a hand or of the human form; delicacy of the skin; delicacy of frame.

3.
Nice propriety of manners or conduct; susceptibility or tenderness of feeling; refinement; fastidiousness; and hence, in an exaggerated sense, effeminacy; as, great delicacy of behavior; delicacy in doing a kindness; delicacy of character that unfits for earnest action.

You know your mother's delicacy in this point.
Cowper.

4.
Addiction to pleasure; luxury; daintiness; indulgence; luxurious or voluptuous treatment.

And to those dainty limbs which Nature lent
For gentle usage and soft delicacy?
Milton.

5.
Nice and refined perception and discrimination; critical niceness; fastidious accuracy.

That Augustan delicacy of taste which is the boast of the great public schools of England.
Macaulay.

6.
The state of being affected by slight causes; sensitiveness; as, the delicacy of a chemist's balance.

7.
That which is alluring, delicate, or refined; a luxury or pleasure; something pleasant to the senses, especially to the sense of taste; a dainty; as, delicacies of the table.

The merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies.
Rev. xviii. 3.

8.
Pleasure; gratification; delight.
[Obs.]

He Rome brent for his delicacie.
Chaucer.


word: Delicate
definition:
Delicate

Del"i*cate
(?)
a.
[L. delicatus pleasing the senses, voluptuous, soft and tender; akin to deliciae delight: cf. F. délicat. See Delight.]
1.
Addicted to pleasure; luxurious; voluptuous; alluring.
[R.]

Dives, for his delicate life, to the devil went.
Piers Plowman.

Haarlem is a very delicate town.
Evelyn.

2.
Pleasing to the senses; refinedly agreeable; hence, adapted to please a nice or cultivated taste; nice; fine; elegant; as, a delicate dish; delicate flavor.

3.
Slight and shapely; lovely; graceful; as, “a delicate creature.”
Shak.

4.
Fine or slender; minute; not coarse; -- said of a thread, or the like; as, delicate cotton.

5.
Slight or smooth; light and yielding; -- said of texture; as, delicate lace or silk.

6.
Soft and fair; -- said of the skin or a surface; as, a delicate cheek; a delicate complexion.

7.
Light, or softly tinted; -- said of a color; as, a delicate blue.

8.
Refined; gentle; scrupulous not to trespass or offend; considerate; -- said of manners, conduct, or feelings; as, delicate behavior; delicate attentions; delicate thoughtfulness.

9.
Tender; not able to endure hardship; feeble; frail; effeminate; -- said of constitution, health, etc.; as, a delicate child; delicate health.

A delicate and tender prince.
Shak.

10.
Requiring careful handling; not to be rudely or hastily dealt with; nice; critical; as, a delicate subject or question.

There are some things too delicate and too sacred to be handled rudely without injury to truth.
F. W. Robertson.

11.
Of exacting tastes and habits; dainty; fastidious.

12.
Nicely discriminating or perceptive; refinedly critical; sensitive; exquisite; as, a delicate taste; a delicate ear for music.

13.
Affected by slight causes; showing slight changes; as, a delicate thermometer.


word: Delicate₂
definition:
Delicate

Del"i*cate
n.
1.
A choice dainty; a delicacy.
[R.]

With abstinence all delicates he sees.
Dryden.

2.
A delicate, luxurious, or effeminate person.

All the vessels, then, which our delicates have, -- those I mean that would seem to be more fine in their houses than their neighbors, -- are only of the Corinth metal.
Holland.


word: Delicatessen
definition:
Delicatessen

Del`i*ca*tes"sen
(?)
n. pl.
[G., fr. F. délicatesse.]
1.
Relishes for the table; dainties; delicacies.
delicatessen
G. H. Putnam.

2.
ready-to-eat foods, such as cold cuts, cooked meats, and prepared salads.

3.
sing.
pl. delicatessens.
a store or section of a store where delicatessen{2} is sold.
delicatessen


word: Delices
definition:
Delices

Del"i*ces
(?)
n. pl.
[F. délices, fr. L. deliciae.]
Delicacies; delights.
[Obs.]
delices
Spenser.


word: Delicious
definition:
Delicious

De*li"cious
(?)
a.
[OF. delicieus, F. délicieux, L. deliciosus, fr. deliciae delight, fr. delicere to allure. See Delight.]
1.
Affording exquisite pleasure; delightful; most sweet or grateful to the senses, especially to the taste; charming.

Some delicious landscape.
Coleridge.

One draught of spring's delicious air.
Keble.

Were not his words delicious?
Tennyson.

2.
Addicted to pleasure; seeking enjoyment; luxurious; effeminate.
[Obs.]

Others, lastly, of a more delicious and airy spirit, retire themselves to the enjoyments of ease and luxury.
Milton.
Like the rich fruit he sings, delicious in decay.
Smith.

No spring, nor summer, on the mountain seen,
Smiles with gay fruits or with delightful green.
Addison.


word: Deliciously
definition:
Deliciously

De*li"cious*ly
adv.
Delightfully; as, to feed deliciously; to be deliciously entertained.


word: Deliciousness
definition:
Deliciousness

De*li"cious*ness
n.
1.
The quality of being delicious; as, the deliciousness of a repast.

2.
Luxury.
deliciousness
Sir T. North.


word: Delict
definition:
Delict

De*lict"
(?)
n.
[L. delictum fault.]
(Law)
An offense or transgression against law; (Scots Law) an offense of a lesser degree; a misdemeanor.

Every regulation of the civil code necessarily implies a delict in the event of its violation.
Jeffrey.


word: Deligate
definition:
Deligate

Del"i*gate
(?)
v. t.
[L. deligatus, p. p. of deligare to bind up; de- + ligare to bind.]
(Surg.)
To bind up; to bandage.


word: Delight
definition:
Delight

De*light"
(?)
n.
[OE. delit, OF. delit, deleit, fr. delitier, to delight. See Delight, v. t.]
1.
A high degree of gratification of mind; a high- wrought state of pleasurable feeling; lively pleasure; extreme satisfaction; joy.

Sounds and sweet airs, that give delight and hurt not.
Shak.

A fool hath no delight in understanding.
Prov. xviii. 2.

2.
That which gives great pleasure or delight.

Heaven's last, best gift, my ever new delight.
Milton.

3.
Licentious pleasure; lust.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: Delight₂
definition:
Delight

De*light"
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Delighted; p. pr. & vb. n. Delighting.]
[OE. deliten, OF. delitier, deleitier, F. délecter, fr. L. delectare to entice away, to delight (sc. by attracting or alluring), intens. of delicere to allure, delight; de- + lacere to entice, allure; cf. laqueus a snare. Cf. Delectate, Delicate, Delicious, Dilettante, Elicit, Lace.]
To give delight to; to affect with great pleasure; to please highly; as, a beautiful landscape delights the eye; harmony delights the ear.

Inventions to delight the taste.
Shak.

Delight our souls with talk of knightly deeds.
Tennyson.


word: Delight₃
definition:
Delight

De*light"
v. i.
To have or take great delight or pleasure; to be greatly pleased or rejoiced; -- followed by an infinitive, or by in.

Love delights in praises.
Shak.

I delight to do thy will, O my God.
Ps. xl. 8.


word: Delightable
definition:
Delightable

De*light"a*ble
(?)
a.
[See Delectable.]
Capable of delighting; delightful.
[Obs.]

Many a spice delightable.
Rom. of R.


word: Delightful
definition:
Delightful

De*light"ful
(?)
a.
Highly pleasing; affording great pleasure and satisfaction.
Delightful
Spenser.
Delightful
Milton.


word: Delightsome
definition:
Delightsome

De*light"some
(?)
a.
Very pleasing; delightful.
Delightsome
Grew.

Ye shall be a delightsome land, . . . saith the Lord.
Mal. iii. 12.


word: Delignate
definition:
Delignate

De*lig"nate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Delignated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Delignating.]
[Pref. de- + L. lignum wood.]
1.
To clear or strip of wood (by cutting down trees).
[R.]
Fuller.

2.
To strip or remove the wood from; as, to delignate ramie, in the preparation of ribbons of the fiber for further working.


word: Delilah
definition:
Delilah

De*li"lah
(?)
n.
The mistress of Samson, who betrayed him (Judges xvi.); hence, a harlot; a temptress.

Other Delilahs on a smaller scale Burns met with during his Dumfries sojourn.
J. C. Shairp.


word: Delimit
definition:
Delimit

De*lim"it
(?)
v. t.
[L. delimitare: cf. F. délimiter.]
To fix the limits of; to demarcate; to bound.


word: delimitate
definition:
delimitate

delimitate
v.
1.
to determine the essential quality of.

Syn. -- specify, define, delineate, delimit.

2.
to set, mark, or draw the boundaries of something.

Syn. -- demarcate, delimit.


word: Delimitation
definition:
Delimitation

De*lim`i*ta"tion
(?)
n.
[L. delimitatio: cf. F. délimitation.]
The act or process of fixing limits or boundaries; limitation.
Gladstone.


word: Delineate
definition:
Delineate

De*lin"e*ate
(?)
a.
[L. delineatus, p. p. of delineare to delineate; de- + lineare to draw, fr. linea line. See Line.]
Delineated; portrayed.
[R.]


word: Delineate₂
definition:
Delineate

De*lin"e*ate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Delineated; p. pr. & vb. n. Delineating.]
1.
To indicate by lines drawn in the form or figure of; to represent by sketch, design, or diagram; to sketch out; to portray; to picture; in drawing and engraving, to represent in lines, as with the pen, pencil, or graver; hence, to represent with accuracy and minuteness. See Delineation.

Adventurous to delineate nature's form.
Akenside.

2.
To portray to the mind or understanding by words; to set forth; to describe.

Customs or habits delineated with great accuracy.
Walpole.


word: delineated
definition:
delineated

delineated
adj.
1.
represented accurately or precisely.
diagrammatic, diagrammatical
drawn
painted

2.
described in words with sharpness and detail or with vivid imagery.  Opposite of undelineated.

Syn. -- represented, delineate.


word: Delineation
definition:
Delineation

De*lin`e*a"tion
(?)
n.
[L. delineatio: cf. F. délinéation.]
1.
The act of representing, portraying, or describing, as by lines, diagrams, sketches, etc.; drawing an outline; as, the delineation of a scene or face; in drawing and engraving, representation by means of lines, as distinguished from representation by means of tints and shades; accurate and minute representation, as distinguished from art that is careless of details, or subordinates them excessively.

2.
A delineated picture; representation; sketch; description in words.

Their softest delineations of female beauty.
W. Irving.


word: Delineator
definition:
Delineator

De*lin"e*a`tor
(?)
n.
1.
One who, or that which, delineates; a sketcher.

2.
(Surv.)
A perambulator which records distances and delineates a profile, as of a road.


word: Delineatory
definition:
Delineatory

De*lin"e*a*to*ry
(?)
a.
That delineates; descriptive; drawing the outline; delineating.


word: Delinition
definition:
Delinition

Del`i*ni"tion
(?)
n.
[L. delinere to smear. See Liniment.]
A smearing.
[Obs.]
Dr. H. More.


word: Delinquency
definition:
Delinquency

De*lin"quen*cy
(?)
n.
pl. Delinquencies (#).
[L. delinquentia, fr. delinquens.]
Failure or omission of duty; a fault; a misdeed; an offense; a misdemeanor; a crime.

The delinquencies of the little commonwealth would be represented in the most glaring colors.
Motley.


word: Delinquent
definition:
Delinquent

De*lin"quent
(?)
a.
[L. delinquens, -entis, p. pr. of delinquere to fail, be wanting in one's duty, do wrong; de- + linquere to leave. See Loan, n.]
Failing in duty; offending by neglect of duty.


word: Delinquent₂
definition:
Delinquent

De*lin"quent
n.
One who fails or neglects to perform his duty; an offender or transgressor; one who commits a fault or a crime; a culprit.

A delinquent ought to be cited in the place or jurisdiction where the delinquency was committed.
Ayliffe.


word: Deliquate
definition:
Deliquate

Del"i*quate
(?)
v. i.
[L. deliquatus, p. p. of deliquare to clear off, de- + liquare to make liquid, melt, dissolve.]
To melt or be dissolved; to deliquesce.
[Obs.]
Boyle.


word: Deliquate₂
definition:
Deliquate

Del"i*quate
v. t.
To cause to melt away; to dissolve; to consume; to waste.
[Obs.]

Dilapidating, or rather deliquating, his bishopric.
Fuller.


word: Deliquesce
definition:
Deliquesce

Del`i*quesce"
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Deliquesced (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deliquescing.]
[L. deliquescere to melt, dissolve; de- + liquescere to become fluid, melt, fr. liquere to be fluid. See Liquid.]
(Chem.)
To dissolve gradually and become liquid by attracting and absorbing moisture from the air, as certain salts, acids, and alkalies.
In very moist air crystals of strontites deliquesce.
Black.


word: Deliquescence
definition:
Deliquescence

Del`i*ques"cence
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. déliquescence.]
The act of deliquescing or liquefying; process by which anything deliquesces; tendency to melt.


word: Deliquescent
definition:
Deliquescent

Del`i*ques"cent
(?)
a.
[L. deliquescens, -entis, p. pr. of deliquescere: cf. F. déliquescent.]
1.
Dissolving; liquefying by contact with the air; capable of attracting moisture from the atmosphere and becoming liquid; as, deliquescent salts.

2.
(Bot.)
Branching so that the stem is lost in branches, as in most deciduous trees.
Gray.


word: Deliquiate
definition:
Deliquiate

De*liq"ui*ate
(?)
v. i.
[L. deliquia a flowing off, a gutter, deliquium a flowing down, fr. deliquare. See Deliquate.]
To melt and become liquid by absorbing water from the air; to deliquesce.
Fourcroy.


word: Deliquium
definition:
Deliquium

De*liq"ui*um
(?)
n.
[L. See Deliquiate.]
1.
(Chem.)
A melting or dissolution in the air, or in a moist place; a liquid condition; as, a salt falls into a deliquium.
[R.]

2.
A sinking away; a swooning.
[Obs.]
Bacon.

3.
A melting or maudlin mood.
Carlyle.


word: Delirament
definition:
Delirament

De*lir"a*ment
(?)
n.
[L. deliramentum, fr. delirare. See Delirium.]
A wandering of the mind; a crazy fancy.
[Obs.]
Heywood.


word: Delirant
definition:
Delirant

De*lir"ant
(?)
a.
[L. delirans, - antis, p. pr. of delirare. See Delirium.]
Delirious.
[Obs.]
Owen.


word: Delirate
definition:
Delirate

De*lir"ate
(?)
v. t. & i.
[L. deliratus, p. p. of delirare. See Delirium.]
To madden; to rave.
[Obs.]

An infatuating and delirating spirit in it.
Holland.


word: Deliration
definition:
Deliration

Del`i*ra"tion
(?)
n.
[L. deliratio.]
Aberration of mind; delirium.
J. Morley.

Deliration or alienation of the understanding.
Mede.


word: Deliriant
definition:
Deliriant

De*lir"i*ant
(?)
n.
[See Delirium.]
(Med.)
A poison which occasions a persistent delirium, or mental aberration (as belladonna).


word: Delirifacient
definition:
Delirifacient

De*lir`i*fa"cient
(?)
a.
[Delirium + L. faciens, -entis, p. pr. of facere to make.]
(Med.)
Producing, or tending to produce, delirium.
n. Any substance which tends to cause delirium.


word: Delirious
definition:
Delirious

De*lir"i*ous
(?)
a.
[From Delirium.]
Having a delirium; wandering in mind; light-headed; insane; raving; wild; as, a delirious patient; delirious fancies.
De*lir"i*ous*ly, adv. -- De*lir"i*ous*ness, n.


word: Delirium
definition:
Delirium

De*lir"i*um
(de̝*lĭr"ĭ*ŭm)
n.
[L., fr. delirare to rave, to wander in mind, prop., to go out of the furrow in plowing; de- + lira furrow, track; perh. akin to G. geleise track, rut, and E. last to endure.]
1.
(Med.)
A state in which the thoughts, expressions, and actions are wild, irregular, and incoherent; mental aberration; a roving or wandering of the mind, -- usually dependent on a fever or some other disease, and so distinguished from mania, or madness.

2.
Strong excitement; wild enthusiasm; madness.

The popular delirium [of the French Revolution] at first caught his enthusiastic mind.
W. Irving.

The delirium of the preceding session (of Parliament).
Morley.

Delirium tremens (_;). [L., trembling delirium] (Med.), a violent delirium induced by the excessive and prolonged use of intoxicating liquors. -- Traumatic delirium (Med.), a variety of delirium following injury.


word: Delitescence
definition:
Delitescence

Del`i*tes"cence
(?)
n.
[See Delitescent.]
1.
Concealment; seclusion; retirement.

The delitescence of mental activities.
Sir W. Hamilton.

2.
(Med.)
The sudden disappearance of inflammation.


word: Delitescency
definition:
Delitescency

Del`i*tes"cen*cy
(?)
n.
Concealment; seclusion.

The mental organization of the novelist must be characterized, to speak craniologically, by an extraordinary development of the passion for delitescency.
Sir W. Scott.


word: Delitescent
definition:
Delitescent

Del`i*tes"cent
(?)
a.
[L. delitescens, -entis, p. pr. of delitescere to lie hid.]
Lying hid; concealed.


word: Delitigate
definition:
Delitigate

De*lit"i*gate
(?)
v. i.
[L. delitigare to rail. See Litigate.]
To chide; to rail heartily.
[Obs.]


word: Deliver
definition:
Deliver

De*liv"er
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Delivered (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Delivering.]
[F. délivrer, LL. deliberare to liberate, give over, fr. L. de + liberare to set free. See Liberate.]
1.
To set free from restraint; to set at liberty; to release; to liberate, as from control; to give up; to free; to save; to rescue from evil actual or feared; -- often with from or out of; as, to deliver one from captivity, or from fear of death.

He that taketh warning shall deliver his soul.
Ezek. xxxiii. 5.

Promise was that I
Should Israel from Philistian yoke deliver.
Milton.

2.
To give or transfer; to yield possession or control of; to part with (to); to make over; to commit; to surrender; to resign; -- often with up or over, to or into.

Thou shalt deliver Pharaoh's cup into his hand.
Gen. xl. 13.

The constables have delivered her over.
Shak.

The exalted mind
All sense of woe delivers to the wind.
Pope.

3.
To make over to the knowledge of another; to communicate; to utter; to speak; to impart.

Till he these words to him deliver might.
Spenser.

Whereof the former delivers the precepts of the art, and the latter the perfection.
Bacon.

4.
To give forth in action or exercise; to discharge; as, to deliver a blow; to deliver a broadside, or a ball.

Shaking his head and delivering some show of tears.
Sidney.

An uninstructed bowler . . . thinks to attain the jack by delivering his bowl straightforward upon it.
Sir W. Scott.

5.
To free from, or disburden of, young; to relieve of a child in childbirth; to bring forth; -- often with of.

She was delivered safe and soon.
Gower.

Tully was long ere he could be delivered of a few verses, and those poor ones.
Peacham.

6.
To discover; to show.
[Poetic]

I 'll deliver
Myself your loyal servant.
Shak.

7.
To deliberate.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.

8.
To admit; to allow to pass.
[Obs.]
Bacon.


word: Deliver₂
definition:
Deliver

De*liv"er
a.
[OF. delivre free, unfettered. See Deliver, v. t.]
Free; nimble; sprightly; active.
[Obs.]

Wonderly deliver and great of strength.
Chaucer.


word: Deliverable
definition:
Deliverable

De*liv"er*a*ble
(?)
a.
Capable of being, or about to be, delivered; necessary to be delivered.
Hale.


word: Deliverance
definition:
Deliverance

De*liv"er*ance
(?)
n.
[F. délivrance, fr. délivrer.]
1.
The act of delivering or freeing from restraint, captivity, peril, and the like; rescue; as, the deliverance of a captive.

He hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives.
Luke iv. 18.

One death or one deliverance we will share.
Dryden.

2.
Act of bringing forth children.
[Archaic]
Shak.

3.
Act of speaking; utterance.
[Archaic]
Shak.

&hand_; In this and in the preceding sense delivery is the word more commonly used.

4.
The state of being delivered, or freed from restraint.

I do desire deliverance from these officers.
Shak.

5.
Anything delivered or communicated; esp., an opinion or decision expressed publicly.
[Scot.]

6.
(Metaph.)
Any fact or truth which is decisively attested or intuitively known as a psychological or philosophical datum; as, the deliverance of consciousness.


word: Deliverer
definition:
Deliverer

De*liv"er*er
(?)
n.
1.
One who delivers or rescues; a preserver.

2.
One who relates or communicates.


word: Deliverly
definition:
Deliverly

De*liv"er*ly
adv.
Actively; quickly; nimbly.
[Obs.]

Swim with your bodies,
And carry it sweetly and deliverly.
Beau. & Fl.


word: Delivery
definition:
Delivery

De*liv"er*y
n.
pl. Deliveries (_;).
1.
The act of delivering from restraint; rescue; release; liberation; as, the delivery of a captive from his dungeon.

2.
The act of delivering up or over; surrender; transfer of the body or substance of a thing; distribution; as, the delivery of a fort, of hostages, of a criminal, of goods, of letters.

3.
The act or style of utterance; manner of speaking; as, a good delivery; a clear delivery.

4.
The act of giving birth; parturition; the expulsion or extraction of a fetus and its membranes.

5.
The act of exerting one's strength or limbs.

Neater limbs and freer delivery.
Sir H. Wotton.

6.
The act or manner of delivering a ball; as, the pitcher has a swift delivery.


word: Dell
definition:
Dell

Dell
(?)
n.
[AS. del, akin to E. dale; cf. D. delle, del, low ground. See Dale.]
1.
A small, retired valley; a ravine.

In dells and dales, concealed from human sight.
Tickell.

2.
A young woman; a wench.
[Obs.]

Sweet doxies and dells.
B. Jonson.


word: Della Crusca
definition:
Della Crusca

Del"la Crus"ca
(?)
A shortened form of Accademia della Crusca, an academy in Florence, Italy, founded in the 16th century, especially for conserving the purity of the Italian language.

&hand_; The Accademia della Crusca (literally, academy of the bran or chaff) was so called in allusion to its chief object of bolting or purifying the national language.


word: Dellacruscan
definition:
Dellacruscan

Del`la*crus"can
(?)
a.
Of or pertaining to the Accademia della Crusca in Florence.

The Dellacruscan School, a name given in satire to a class of affected English writers, most of whom lived in Florence, about a. d. 1785.


word: Deloul
definition:
Deloul

De*loul"
(da̝*lōl")
n.
[Prob. of Arabic or Bedouin origin.]
(Zool.)
A special breed of the dromedary used for rapid traveling; the swift camel; -- called also herire, and maharik.


word: Delphic
definition:
Delphic

Del"phic
(?)
a.
[L. Delphicus, fr. Gr. Delfiko`s, fr. Delfoi`, L. Delphi, a town of Phocis, in Greece, now Kastri.]
(Gr. Antiq.)
1.
Of or relating to Delphi, or to the famous oracle of that place.

2.
Ambiguous; mysterious.
delphic
New York Times.


word: Delphine
definition:
Delphine

Delphin

{ Del"phin, Del"phine }
(?)
a.
[See Dauphin.]
Pertaining to the dauphin of France; as, the Delphin classics, an edition of the Latin classics, prepared in the reign of Louis XIV., for the use of the dauphin (in usum Delphini).


word: Delphin
definition:
Delphin

Del"phin
n.
[L. delphinus a dolphin.]
(Chem.)
A fatty substance contained in the oil of the dolphin and the porpoise; -- called also phocenin.


word: Delphine₂
definition:
Delphine

Del"phine
(?)
a.
[L. delphinus a dolphin, Gr. delfi`s, delfi`n.]
Pertaining to the dolphin, a genus of fishes.


word: Delphinic
definition:
Delphinic

Del*phin"ic
(?)
a.
[See Delphin, n.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or derived from, the dolphin; phocenic.

Delphinic acid. (Chem.) See Valeric acid, under Valeric. [Obs.]


word: Delphinic₂
definition:
Delphinic

Del*phin"ic
a.
[From NL. Delphinium, the name of the genus.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or derived from, the larkspur; specifically, relating to the stavesacre (Delphinium staphisagria).


word: Delphinine
definition:
Delphinine

Del"phi*nine
(?; 104)
n.
[Cf. F. delphinine.]
(Chem.)
A poisonous alkaloid extracted from the stavesacre (Delphinium staphisagria), as a colorless amorphous powder.


word: Delphinoid
definition:
Delphinoid

Del"phi*noid
(?)
a.
[L. delphinus a dolphin + -oid.]
(Zool.)
Pertaining to, or resembling, the dolphin.


word: Delphinoidea
definition:
Delphinoidea

Del`phi*noi"de*a
(?)
n. pl.
[NL.]
(Zool.)
The division of Cetacea which comprises the dolphins, porpoises, and related forms.


word: Delphinus
definition:
Delphinus

Del*phi"nus
(?)
n.
[L., a dolphin, fr. Gr. delfi`s, delfi`n.]
1.
(Zool.)
A genus of Cetacea, including the dolphin. See Dolphin, 1.

2.
(Astron.)
The Dolphin, a constellation near the equator and east of Aquila.


word: Delsarte system
definition:
Delsarte system

Delsarte

Del*sarte" (?), n., or Delsarte system
A system of calisthenics patterned on the theories of François Delsarte (1811 -- 71), a French teacher of dramatic and musical expression.


word: Delta
definition:
Delta

Del"ta
(?)
n.
pl. Deltas (#).
[Gr. de`lta, the name of the fourth letter of the Greek alphabet (the capital form of which is Δ, Eng. D), from the Phœnician name of the corresponding letter. The Greeks called the alluvial deposit at the mouth of the Nile, from its shape, the Delta of the Nile.]
1.
The fourth letter of the Greek alphabet (Δ δ), corresponding to D.
Hence,
an object having the shape of the capital Δ.

2.
A tract of land shaped like the letter delta (Δ), especially when the land is alluvial and inclosed between two or more mouths of a river; as, the delta of the Ganges, of the Nile, or of the Mississippi.

3.
(Elec.)
The closed figure produced by connecting three coils or circuits successively, end for end, esp. in a three-phase system; -- often used attributively, as delta winding, delta connection (which see), etc.


word: Delta connection
definition:
Delta connection

Delta connection
(Elec.)
One of the usual forms or methods for connecting apparatus to a three-phase circuit, the three corners of the delta or triangle, as diagrammatically represented, being connected to the three wires of the supply circuit.


word: Deltafication
definition:
Deltafication

Del`ta*fi*ca"tion
(?)
n.
[Delta + L. facere to make.]
The formation of a delta or of deltas.
[R.]


word: Delthyris
definition:
Delthyris

Del*thy"ris
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. de`lta the name of the letter Δ + thy`ra door.]
(Zool.)
A name formerly given to certain Silurian brachiopod shells of the genus Spirifer.

Delthyris limestone (Geol.), one of the divisions of the Upper Silurian rocks in New York.


word: Deltidium
definition:
Deltidium

Del*tid"i*um
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. de`lta, the letter Δ.]
(Zool.)
The triangular space under the beak of many brachiopod shells.


word: Deltohedron
definition:
Deltohedron

Del`to*he"dron
(?)
n.
[Gr. de`lta, the letter Δ + 'e`dra seat, base.]
(Crystallog.)
A solid bounded by twelve quadrilateral faces. It is a hemihedral form of the isometric system, allied to the tetrahedron.


word: Deltoid
definition:
Deltoid

Del"toid
(?)
a.
[Gr. deltoeidh`s delta- shaped; de`lta the name of the letter Δ + e'i^dos form: cf. F. deltoïde. See Delta.]
1.
Shaped like the Greek Δ (delta); delta-shaped; triangular.

Deltoid leaf (Bot.), a leaf in the form of a triangle with the stem inserted at the middle of the base. -- Deltoid muscle (Anat.), a large triangular muscle covering the shoulder joint, which serves to raise the arm directly upward.

2.
of or pertaining to the deltoid muscle.


word: delts
definition:
delts

delts
(dĕlts)
n. pl.
(Anat.)
The deltoid muscles; -- a contraction used by body-building and health enthusiasts.   Used similarly to abs and pecs.  See deltoid muscle.
[abbrev.]


word: Deludable
definition:
Deludable

De*lud"a*ble
(?)
a.
Capable of being deluded; liable to be imposed on; gullible.
Sir T. Browne.


word: Delude
definition:
Delude

De*lude"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deluded; p. pr. & vb. n. Deluding.]
[L. deludere, delusum; de- + ludere to play, make sport of, mock. See Ludicrous.]
1.
To lead from truth or into error; to mislead the mind or judgment of; to beguile; to impose on; to dupe; to make a fool of.

To delude the nation by an airy phantom.
Burke.

2.
To frustrate or disappoint.

It deludes thy search.
Dryden.


word: Deluge
definition:
Deluge

Del"uge
(dĕl"&uuptack_;j)
n.
[F. déluge, L. diluvium, fr. diluere wash away; di- = dis- + luere, equiv. to lavare to wash. See Lave, and cf. Diluvium.]
1.
A washing away; an overflowing of the land by water; an inundation; a flood; specifically, The Deluge, the great flood in the days of Noah (Gen. vii.).

2.
Fig.: Anything which overwhelms, or causes great destruction.
deluge
Lowell.

A fiery deluge fed
With ever-burning sulphur unconsumed.
Milton.

As I grub up some quaint old fragment of a [London] street, or a house, or a shop, or tomb or burial ground, which has still survived in the deluge.
F. Harrison.

After me the deluge.
(Aprés moi le déluge.)
Madame de Pompadour.


word: Deluge₂
definition:
Deluge

Del"uge
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deluged (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deluging.]
1.
To overflow with water; to inundate; to overwhelm.

The deluged earth would useless grow.
Blackmore.

2.
To overwhelm, as with a deluge; to cover; to overspread; to overpower; to submerge; to destroy; as, the northern nations deluged the Roman empire with their armies; the land is deluged with woe.

At length corruption, like a general flood . . . 
Shall deluge all.
Pope.


word: Delundung
definition:
Delundung

De*lun"dung
(?)
n.
[Native name.]
(Zool.)
An East Indian carnivorous mammal (Prionodon gracilis), resembling the civets, but without scent pouches. It is handsomely spotted.


word: Delusion
definition:
Delusion

De*lu"sion
(?)
n.
[L. delusio, fr. deludere. See Delude.]
1.
The act of deluding; deception; a misleading of the mind.
Pope.

2.
The state of being deluded or misled.

3.
That which is falsely or delusively believed or propagated; false belief; error in belief.

And fondly mourned the dear delusion gone.
Prior.


word: Delusive
definition:
Delusive

De*lu"sive
(?)
a.
[See Delude.]
Apt or fitted to delude; tending to mislead the mind; deceptive; beguiling; delusory; as, delusive arts; a delusive dream.

Delusive and unsubstantial ideas.
Whewell.


word: deluxe
definition:
deluxe

deluxe
adj.
1.
impressively expensive; notably exceeding typical price or quality.

Syn. -- gilded, luxurious, opulent, princely, sumptuous.

2.
especially elegant and sumptuous; of the highest quality; as, a deluxe car; deluxe accommodations.

Syn. -- gilded, luxurious, opulent, princely, sumptuous, de luxe, luxe, luxury(prenominal).


word: Delve
definition:
Delve

Delve
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Delved (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Delving.]
[AS. delfan to dig; akin to OS. bidelban to bury, D. delven to dig, MHG. telben, and possibly to E. dale. Cf. Delf a mine.]
1.
To dig; to open (the ground) as with a spade.

Delve of convenient depth your thrashing floor.
Dryden.

2.
To dig into; to penetrate; to trace out; to fathom.

I can not delve him to the root.
Shak.


word: Delve₂
definition:
Delve

Delve
v. i.
To dig or labor with a spade, or as with a spade; to labor as a drudge.

Delve may I not: I shame to beg.
Wyclif (Luke xvi. 3).


word: Delve₃
definition:
Delve

Delve
n.
[See Delve, v. t., and cf. Delf a mine.]
A place dug; a pit; a ditch; a den; a cave.

Which to that shady delve him brought at last.
Spenser.

The very tigers from their delves
Look out.
Moore.


word: Demagnetize
definition:
Demagnetize

De*mag"net*ize
(?)
v. t.
1.
To deprive of magnetic properties; to render nonmagnetic. See Magnetize.

If the bar be rapidly magnetized and demagnetized.
Am. Cyc.

2.
To free from mesmeric influence; to demesmerize.
[archaic]


word: Demagogical
definition:
Demagogical

Demagogic

{ Dem`a*gog"ic (?), Dem`a*gog"ic*al (?), }
a.
[Gr. dhmagwkiko`s: cf. F. démagogique.]
Relating to, or like, a demagogue; factious.


word: Demagogue
definition:
Demagogue

Dem"a*gogue
(?; 115)
n.
[Gr. dhmagwgo`s a popular leader; commonly in a bad sense, a leader of the mob; dh^mos the people + 'agwgo`s leading, fr. 'a`gein to lead; akin to E. act: cf. F. démagogue.]
A leader of the rabble; one who attempts to control the multitude by specious or deceitful arts; an unprincipled and factious mob orator or political leader.


word: demagoguery
definition:
demagoguery

demagoguery
n.
1.
impassioned appeals to the prejudices and emotions of the populace.

Syn. -- demagogy, demagogism.


word: Demagogy
definition:
Demagogy

Dem"a*gog`y
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. démagogie, Gr. dhmagwgi`a leadership of the people.]
Demagogism.

Syn. -- demagoguery.


word: Demand
definition:
Demand

De*mand"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Demanded; p. pr. & vb. n. Demanding.]
[F. demander, LL. demandare to demand, summon, send word, fr. L. demandare to give in charge, intrust; de- + mandare to commit to one's charge, commission, order, command. Cf. Mandate, Commend.]
1.
To ask or call for with authority; to claim or seek from, as by authority or right; to claim, as something due; to call for urgently or peremptorily; as, to demand a debt; to demand obedience.

This, in our foresaid holy father's name,
Pope Innocent, I do demand of thee.
Shak.

2.
To inquire authoritatively or earnestly; to ask, esp. in a peremptory manner; to question.

I did demand what news from Shrewsbury.
Shak.

3.
To require as necessary or useful; to be in urgent need of; hence, to call for; as, the case demands care.

4.
(Law)
To call into court; to summon.
Burrill.


word: Demand₂
definition:
Demand

De*mand"
v. i.
To make a demand; to inquire.

The soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do?
Luke iii. 14.


word: Demand₃
definition:
Demand

De*mand"
n.
[F. demande, fr. demander. See Demand, v. t.]
1.
The act of demanding; an asking with authority; a peremptory urging of a claim; a claiming or challenging as due; requisition; as, the demand of a creditor; a note payable on demand.

The demand [is] by the word of the holy ones.
Dan. iv. 17.

He that has confidence to turn his wishes into demands will be but a little way from thinking he ought to obtain them.
Locke.

2.
Earnest inquiry; question; query.
Shak.

3.
A diligent seeking or search; manifested want; desire to possess; request; as, a demand for certain goods; a person's company is in great demand.

In 1678 came forth a second edition [Pilgrim's Progress] with additions; and then the demand became immense.
Macaulay.

4.
That which one demands or has a right to demand; thing claimed as due; claim; as, demands on an estate.

5.
(Law)
(a)
The asking or seeking for what is due or claimed as due.
(b)
The right or title in virtue of which anything may be claimed; as, to hold a demand against a person.
(c)
A thing or amount claimed to be due.

In demand, in request; being much sought after. -- On demand, upon presentation and request of payment.


word: Demandant
definition:
Demandant

De*mand"ant
(?)
n.
[F. demandant, p. pr. of demander.]
One who demands; the plaintiff in a real action; any plaintiff.


word: Demantoid
definition:
Demantoid

De*man"toid
(?)
n.
[G. demant diamond + -oid.]
(Min.)
A yellow-green, transparent variety of garnet found in the Urals. It is valued as a gem because of its brilliancy of luster, whence the name.


word: Demarcate
definition:
Demarcate

De*mar"cate
(?)
v. t.
[See Demarcation.]
To mark by bounds; to set the limits of; to separate; to discriminate.
Wilkinson.


word: Demarcation
definition:
Demarcation

De`mar*ca"tion
(?)
n.
[F. démarcation; pref. dé- (L. de) + marquer to mark, of German origin. See Mark.]
The act of marking, or of ascertaining and setting a limit; separation; distinction.

The speculative line of demarcation, where obedience ought to end and resistance must begin, is faint, obscure, and not easily definable.
Burke.


word: Demarch₂
definition:
Demarch

De*march
(dē"märk)
n.
[Gr. dh`marchos; dh^mos people + 'a`rchein to rule.]
A chief or ruler of a deme or district in Greece.


word: demasculinization
definition:
demasculinization

demasculinization
n.
the act or process of demasculinizing; the removal of the testicles of a male animal.

Syn. -- emasculation, castration.


word: demasculinize
definition:
demasculinize

demasculinize
v. t.
to remove the testicles of a male animal.

Syn. -- emasculate, castrate.


word: Dematerialize
definition:
Dematerialize

De`ma*te"ri*al*ize
(?)
v. t.
To deprive of material or physical qualities or characteristics.

Dematerializing matter by stripping it of everything which . . . has distinguished matter.
Milman.


word: Deme
definition:
Deme

Deme
(dēm)
n.
[Gr. dh^mos.]
1.
(Gr. Antiq.)
A territorial subdivision of Attica (also of modern Greece), corresponding to a township.
Jowett (Thucyd.).

2.
(Biol.)
An undifferentiated aggregate of cells or plastids.


word: Demean
definition:
Demean

De*mean"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Demeaned (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Demeaning.]
[OF. demener to conduct, guide, manage, F. se démener to struggle; pref. dé- (L. de) + mener to lead, drive, carry on, conduct, fr. L. minare to drive animals by threatening cries, fr. minari to threaten. See Menace.]
1.
To manage; to conduct; to treat.

[Our] clergy have with violence demeaned the matter.
Milton.

2.
To conduct; to behave; to comport; -- followed by the reflexive pronoun.

They have demeaned themselves
Like men born to renown by life or death.
Shak.

They answered . . . that they should demean themselves according to their instructions.
Clarendon.

3.
To debase; to lower; to degrade; -- followed by the reflexive pronoun.

Her son would demean himself by a marriage with an artist's daughter.
Thackeray.

&hand_; This sense is probably due to a false etymology which regarded the word as connected with the adjective mean.


word: Demean₂
definition:
Demean

De*mean"
(?)
n.
[OF. demene. See Demean, v. t.]
1.
Management; treatment.
[Obs.]

Vile demean and usage bad.
Spenser.

2.
Behavior; conduct; bearing; demeanor.
[Obs.]

With grave demean and solemn vanity.
West.


word: Demean₃
definition:
Demean

De*mean"
n.
[See Demesne.]
1.
Demesne.
[Obs.]

2.
pl.
Resources; means.
[Obs.]

You know
How narrow our demeans are.
Massinger.


word: Demeanor
definition:
Demeanor

De*mean"or
(?)
n.
[Written also demeanour.]
[For demeanure, fr. demean. See Demean, v. t.]
1.
Management; treatment; conduct.
[Obs.]

God commits the managing so great a trust . . . wholly to the demeanor of every grown man.
Milton.

2.
Behavior; deportment; carriage; bearing; mien.

His demeanor was singularly pleasing.
Macaulay.

The men, as usual, liked her artless kindness and simple refined demeanor.
Thackeray.


word: Demency
definition:
Demency

De"men*cy
(?)
n.
[L. dementia, fr. demens mad. See Dement.]
Dementia; loss of mental powers. See Insanity.


word: Dement
definition:
Dement

De*ment"
(?)
v. t.
[L. dementare, fr. demens, -mentis, out of one's mind, mad; de + mens mind. See Mental, and cf. Dementate.]
To deprive of reason; to make mad.
[R.]
Bale.


word: Dementate
definition:
Dementate

De*men"tate
(?)
a.
[L. dementatus, p. p. See Dement, v. t.]
Deprived of reason.

Arise, thou dementate sinner!
Hammond.


word: dementedness
definition:
dementedness

de*ment"ed*ness
n.
mental deterioration of organic or functional origin.

Syn. -- dementia.


word: Dementia
definition:
Dementia

De*men"ti*a
(?)
n.
[L., fr. demens. See Dement.]
Insanity; madness; esp. that form which consists in weakness or total loss of thought and reason; mental imbecility; idiocy.


word: Demephitize
definition:
Demephitize

De*meph"i*tize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Demephitized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Demephitizing.]
[Cf. F. méphitiser to infect with mephitis.]
To purify from mephitic or foul air.
De*meph`i*ti*za"tion, n.


word: Demerge
definition:
Demerge

De*merge"
(?)
v. t.
[L. demergere.]
To plunge down into; to sink; to immerse.
[Obs.]

The water in which it was demerged.
Boyle.


word: Demerit
definition:
Demerit

De*mer"it
(?)
n.
[F. démérite demerit (in sense 2), OF. demerite demerit (in sense 1), fr. L. demerere to deserve well, LL., to deserve well or ill; de- + merere to deserve. See De-, and Merit.]
1.
That which one merits or deserves, either of good or ill; desert.
[Obs.]

By many benefits and demerits whereby they obliged their adherents, [they] acquired this reputation.
Holland.

2.
That which deserves blame; ill desert; a fault; a vice; misconduct; -- the opposite of merit.

They see no merit or demerit in any man or any action.
Burke.

Secure, unless forfeited by any demerit or offense.
Sir W. Temple.

3.
The state of one who deserves ill.


word: Demerit₂
definition:
Demerit

De*mer"it
v. t.
[Cf. F. démériter to deserve ill. See Demerit, n.]
1.
To deserve; -- said in reference to both praise and blame.
[Obs.]

If I have demerited any love or thanks.
Udall.

Executed as a traitor . . . as he well demerited.
State Trials (1645).

2.
To depreciate or cry down.
[R.]
Bp. Woolton.


word: Demerse
definition:
Demerse

De*merse"
(?)
v. t.
[L. demersus, p. p. of demergere. See Merge.]
To immerse.
[Obs.]
Boyle.


word: Demersion
definition:
Demersion

De*mer"sion
(?)
n.
[L. demersio.]
1.
The act of plunging into a fluid; a drowning.

2.
The state of being overwhelmed in water, or as if in water.
Ray.


word: Demesne
definition:
Demesne

De*mesne"
(?)
n.
[OE. demeine, demain, rule, demesne, OF. demeine, demaine, demeigne, domaine, power, F. domaine domain, fr. L. dominium property, right of ownership, fr. dominus master, proprietor, owner. See Dame, and cf. Demain, Domain, Danger, Dungeon.]
(Law)
A lord's chief manor place, with that part of the lands belonging thereto which has not been granted out in tenancy; a house, and the land adjoining, kept for the proprietor's own use.
[Written also demain.]
Wharton's Law Dict. Burrill.

Ancient demesne. (Eng. Law) See under Ancient.


word: Demi-
definition:
Demi-

Dem"i-
(?)
[F. demi-, fr. L. dimidius half; di- = dis- + medius middle. See Medium, and cf. Demy, Dimidiate.]
A prefix, signifying half.


word: Demibastion
definition:
Demibastion

Dem"i*bas"tion
(?; 106)
n.
[Cf. F. demi- bastion.]
(Fort.)
A half bastion, or that part of a bastion consisting of one face and one flank.


word: Demicadence
definition:
Demicadence

Dem"i*ca`dence
(?)
n.
(Mus.)
An imperfect or half cadence, falling on the dominant instead of on the key note.


word: Demicannon
definition:
Demicannon

Dem"i*can"non
(?)
n.
(Mil. Antiq.)
A kind of ordnance, carrying a ball weighing from thirty to thirty-six pounds.
Shak.


word: Demicircle
definition:
Demicircle

Dem"i*cir`cle
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. demi-cercle.]
An instrument for measuring angles, in surveying, etc. It resembles a protractor, but has an alidade, sights, and a compass.


word: Demiculverin
definition:
Demiculverin

Dem"i*cul"ver*in
(?)
n.
(Mil. Antiq.)
A kind of ordnance, carrying a ball weighing from nine to thirteen pounds.


word: Demigod
definition:
Demigod

Dem"i*god
(?)
n.
A half god, or an inferior deity; a fabulous hero, the offspring of a deity and a mortal.


word: Demigorge
definition:
Demigorge

Dem"i*gorge`
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. demi- gorge.]
(Fort.)
Half the gorge, or entrance into a bastion, taken from the angle of the flank to the center of the bastion.


word: Demigrate
definition:
Demigrate

Dem"i*grate
(?)
v. i.
[L. demigrare, demigratum, to emigrate. See De-, and Migrate.]
To emigrate.
[Obs.]
Cockeram.


word: Demijohn
definition:
Demijohn

Dem"i*john
(?)
n.
[F. dame-jeanne, i.e., Lady Jane, a corruption of Ar. damajāna, damjāna, prob. fr. Damaghan a town in the Persian province of Khorassan, once famous for its glass works.]
A glass vessel or bottle with a large body and small neck, inclosed in wickerwork.


word: Demilancer
definition:
Demilancer

Dem"i*lan`cer
(?)
n.
A soldier of light cavalry of the 16th century, who carried a demilance.


word: Demilune
definition:
Demilune

Dem"i*lune`
(?)
n.
[F. demi- lune.]
1.
(Fort.)
A work constructed beyond the main ditch of a fortress, and in front of the curtain between two bastions, intended to defend the curtain; a ravelin. See Ravelin.

2.
(Physiol.)
A crescentic mass of granular protoplasm present in the salivary glands.

&hand_; Each crescent is made of polyhedral cells which under some circumstances are supposed to give rise to new salivary cells.


word: Demimonde
definition:
Demimonde

Dem`i*monde"
(?)
n.
[F.; demi + monde world, L. mundus.]
Persons of doubtful reputation; esp., women who are kept as mistresses, though not public prostitutes; demireps.

Literary demimonde, writers of the lowest kind.


word: Demirelievo
definition:
Demirelievo

Demirelief

{ Dem`i*re*lief" (?), Dem`i*re*lie"vo (?), }
n.
Half relief. See Demi-rilievo.


word: Demirep
definition:
Demirep

Dem"i*rep`
(?)
n.
[Contr. fr. demi-reputation.]
A woman of doubtful reputation or suspected character; an adventuress.
[Colloq.]
De Quincey.


word: Demi-rilievo
definition:
Demi-rilievo

Dem"i-ri*lie"vo
(?)
n.
[Pref. demi- + It. rilievo.]
(Fine Arts)
(a)
Half relief; sculpture in relief of which the figures project from the background by one half their full roundness.
(b)
A work of sculpture of the above character. See Alto-rilievo.


word: Demisable
definition:
Demisable

De*mis"a*ble
(?)
a.
[From Demise.]
(Law)
Capable of being leased; as, a demisable estate.


word: Demise
definition:
Demise

De*mise"
(?)
n.
[F. démettre, p. p. démis, démise, to put away, lay down; pref. dé- (L. de or dis-) + mettre to put, place, lay, fr. L. mittere to send. See Mission, and cf. Dismiss, Demit.]
1.
Transmission by formal act or conveyance to an heir or successor; transference; especially, the transfer or transmission of the crown or royal authority to a successor.

2.
The decease of a royal or princely person; hence, also, the death of any illustrious person.

After the demise of the Queen [of George II.], in 1737, they [drawing- rooms] were held but twice a week.
P. Cunningham.

3.
(Law)
The conveyance or transfer of an estate, either in fee for life or for years, most commonly the latter.
Bouvier.

&hand_; The demise of the crown is a transfer of the crown, royal authority, or kingdom, to a successor. Thus, when Edward IV. was driven from his throne for a few months by the house of Lancaster, this temporary transfer of his dignity was called a demise. Thus the natural death of a king or queen came to be denominated a demise, as by that event the crown is transferred to a successor.
Blackstone.

Demise and redemise, a conveyance where there are mutual leases made from one to another of the same land, or something out of it.


word: Demise₂
definition:
Demise

De*mise"
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Demised (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Demising.]
1.
To transfer or transmit by succession or inheritance; to grant or bestow by will; to bequeath.
demise
Swift.

What honor
Canst thou demise to any child of mine?
Shak.

2.
To convey; to give.
[R.]

His soul is at his conception demised to him.
Hammond.

3.
(Law)
To convey, as an estate, by lease; to lease.


word: Demisemiquaver
definition:
Demisemiquaver

Dem`i*sem"i*qua`ver
(?)
n.
(Mus.)
A short note, equal in time to the half of a semiquaver, or the thirty-second part of a whole note.


word: Demiss
definition:
Demiss

De*miss"
(?)
a.
[L. demissus, p. p. of demittere.]
Cast down; humble; submissive.
[Obs.]

He down descended like a most demiss
And abject thrall.
Spenser.


word: Demission
definition:
Demission

De*mis"sion
(?)
n.
[L. demissio, fr. demittere. See Demit.]
1.
The act of demitting, or the state of being demitted; a letting down; a lowering; dejection.
Demission
Hammond.

Demission of sovereign authority.
L'Estrange.

2.
Resignation of an office.
[Scot.]


word: Demissionary
definition:
Demissionary

De*mis"sion*a*ry
(?)
a.
1.
Pertaining to transfer or conveyance; as, a demissionary deed.

2.
Tending to lower, depress, or degrade.


word: Demissive
definition:
Demissive

De*miss"ive
(?)
a.
[See Demiss.]
Downcast; submissive; humble.
[R.]

They pray with demissive eyelids.
Lord (1630).


word: Demisuit
definition:
Demisuit

Dem"i*suit`
(?)
n.
(Mil. Antiq.)
A suit of light armor covering less than the whole body, as having no protection for the legs below the thighs, no vizor to the helmet, and the like.


word: Demit
definition:
Demit

De*mit"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Demitted; p. pr. & vb. n. Demitting.]
[L. demittere to send or bring down, to lower; de- + mittere to send. Cf. Demise.]
1.
To let fall; to depress.
[R.]

They [peacocks] demit and let fall the same [i. e., their train].
Sir T. Browne.

2.
To yield or submit; to humble; to lower; as, to demit one's self to humble duties.
[R.]

3.
To lay down, as an office; to resign.
[Scot.]

General Conway demitted his office.
Hume.


word: Demit₂
definition:
Demit

De*mit"
(?)
v. i.
[F. démettre to remove, se démettre to resign; dé- (L. dis-) + mettre to put, fr. L. mittere to send. Cf. Dismiss.]
To lay down or relinquish an office, membership, authority, or the like; to resign, as from a Masonic lodge; -- generally used with an implication that the act is voluntary.


word: Demit₃
definition:
Demit

De*mit"
n.
The act of demitting; also, a letter, certificate, or the like, certifying that a person has (honorably) demitted, as from a Masonic lodge.


word: Demitint
definition:
Demitint

Dem"i*tint`
(?)
n.
(Fine Arts)
(a)
That part of a painting, engraving, or the like, which is neither in full darkness nor full light.
(b)
The shade itself; neither the darkest nor the lightest in a composition. Also called half tint.


word: Demiurge
definition:
Demiurge

Dem"i*urge
(?)
n.
[Gr. dhmioyrgo`s a worker for the people, a workman, especially the maker of the world, the Creator; dh`mios belonging to the people (fr. dh^mos the people) + 'e`rgon a work.]
1.
(Gr. Antiq.)
The chief magistrate in some of the Greek states.

2.
God, as the Maker of the world.

3.
According to the Gnostics, an agent or one employed by the Supreme Being to create the material universe and man.


word: Demiurgic
definition:
Demiurgic

Dem`i*ur"gic
(?)
a.
[Gr. dhmioyrgiko`s.]
Pertaining to a demiurge; formative; creative.
Demiurgic
De Quincey.


word: Demivill
definition:
Demivill

Dem"i*vill`
(?)
n.
(Old Law)
A half vill, consisting of five freemen or frankpledges.
Blackstone.


word: Demivolt
definition:
Demivolt

Dem"i*volt`
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. demi- volte.]
(Man.)
A half vault; one of the seven artificial motions of a horse, in which he raises his fore legs in a particular manner.


word: Demobilization
definition:
Demobilization

De*mob`i*li*za"tion
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. démobilisation. See Mobilization.]
(Mil.)
The disorganization or disarming of troops which have previously been mobilized or called into active service; the change from a war footing to a peace footing.


word: Demobilize
definition:
Demobilize

De*mob"i*lize
(?)
v. t.
[Cf. F. démobiliser.]
(Mil.)
To disorganize, or disband and send home, as troops which have been mobilized.


word: Demochelys
definition:
Demochelys

Demochelys
prop. n.
the type genus of the Dermochelyidae, consisting of leatherback turtles.

Syn. -- genus Dermochelys.


word: Democracy
definition:
Democracy

De*moc"ra*cy
(de̝*m&obreve_;k"rȧ*s&ybreve_;)
n.
pl. Democracies (de̝*m&obreve_;k"rȧ*sĭz).
[F. démocratie, fr. Gr. dhmokrati`a; dh^mos the people + kratei^n to be strong, to rule, kra`tos strength.]
1.
Government by the people; a form of government in which the supreme power is retained and directly exercised by the people.

2.
Government by popular representation; a form of government in which the supreme power is retained by the people, but is indirectly exercised through a system of representation and delegated authority periodically renewed; a constitutional representative government; a republic.

3.
Collectively, the people, regarded as the source of government.
Milton.

4.
The principles and policy of the Democratic party, so called.
[U.S.]


word: Democrat
definition:
Democrat

Dem"o*crat
(dĕm"o̝*krăt)
n.
[Cf. F. démocrate.]
1.
One who is an adherent or advocate of democracy, or government by the people.

Whatever they call him, what care I,
Aristocrat, democrat, autocrat.
Tennyson.

2.
[capitalized]
A member of the Democratic party.
[U.S.]

3.
A large light uncovered wagon with two or more seats.
[U. S.]


word: Democratic
definition:
Democratic

Dem`o*crat"ic
(?)
a.
[Gr. _;: cf. F. démocratique.]
1.
Pertaining to democracy; favoring democracy, or constructed upon the principle of government by the people.

2.
belonging to or relating to the Democratic party, the political party so called.

3.
Befitting the common people; -- opposed to aristocratic.

The Democratic party, the name of one of the chief political parties in the United States. Presidents of the United States who belonged to the Democratic party in the twentieth century were Woodrow  Wilson, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry Truman, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Jimmy Carter, and Bill Clinton.


word: Democratical
definition:
Democratical

Dem`o*crat"ic*al
(?)
a.
Democratic.

The democratical embassy was democratically received.
Algernon Sidney.


word: demodulator
definition:
demodulator

demodulator
n.
(Electronics)
An electronic device which extracts the modulation from a radio carrier wave, and outputs the original information-bearing signal.

Syn. -- detector.


word: Demogorgon
definition:
Demogorgon

De`mo*gor"gon
(dē"mo̝*gôr*g&obreve_;n or dĕm"o̝*gôr*g&obreve_;n)
n.
[First mentioned by Lutatius, or Lactantius Placidus, the scholiast on Statius, perh. fr. Gr. dai`mwn god, deity + gorgo`s fierce, terrible]
A mysterious, terrible, and evil divinity, regarded by some as the author of creation, by others as a great magician who was supposed to command the spirits of the lower world. See Gorgon.

Orcus and Ades, and the dreaded name
Of Demogorgon.
Milton.


word: demography
definition:
demography

de*mog"ra*phy
(de̝*m&obreve_;g"rȧf&ybreve_;)
n.
[Gr. dh^mos the people + -graphy.]
The study of vital statistics, such as births, deaths, marriages, mortality, health, etc., in populations and subgroups of populations.
Dem`o*graph"ic, a.


word: Demoiselle
definition:
Demoiselle

De`moi`selle"
(?)
n.
[F. See Damsel.]
1.
A young lady; a damsel; a lady's maid.

2.
(Zool.)
The Numidian crane (Anthropoides virgo); -- so called on account of the grace and symmetry of its form and movements.

3.
(Zool.)
A beautiful, small dragon fly of the genus Agrion.


word: Demolish
definition:
Demolish

De*mol"ish
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Demolished (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Demolishing.]
[F. démolir, fr. L. demoliri, p. p. demolitus; de- + moliri to set a thing in motion, to work, construct, from moles a huge mass or structure. See Mole a mound, and Finish.]
To throw or pull down; to raze; to destroy the fabric of; to pull to pieces; to ruin; as, to demolish an edifice, or a wall.

I expected the fabric of my book would long since have been demolished, and laid even with the ground.
Tillotson.


word: Demolition
definition:
Demolition

Dem`o*li"tion
(?; 277)
n.
[L. demolitio, fr. demoliri: cf. F. démolition. See Demolish.]
The act of overthrowing, pulling down, or destroying a pile or structure; destruction by violence; utter overthrow; -- opposed to construction; as, the demolition of a house, of military works, of a town, or of hopes.


word: Demon
definition:
Demon

De"mon
(?)
n.
[F. démon, L. daemon a spirit, an evil spirit, fr. Gr. dai`mwn a divinity; of uncertain origin.]
1.
(Gr. Antiq.)
A spirit, or immaterial being, holding a middle place between men and deities in pagan mythology.

The demon kind is of an intermediate nature between the divine and the human.
Sydenham.

2.
One's genius; a tutelary spirit or internal voice; as, the demon of Socrates.
[Often written dæmon.]

3.
An evil spirit; a devil.

That same demon that hath gulled thee thus.
Shak.


word: demonetization
definition:
demonetization

de*mon`e*ti*za"tion
(?)
n.
The act of demonetizing, or the condition of being demonetized;
specificially,
the declaration by a government that something (e.g. gold or silver) is no longer the legal tender of a country; as, the demonetization of gold.


word: demonetize
definition:
demonetize

de*mon"e*tize
(?; see Monetary)
v. t.
To deprive of current value; to withdraw from use, as money.

They [gold mohurs] have been completely demonetized by the [East India] Company.
R. Cobden.


word: Demoniacal
definition:
Demoniacal

Demoniac

{ De*mo"ni*ac (?), Dem`o*ni"a*cal (?; 277), }
a.
[L. daemoniacus, fr. daemon; cf. F. démoniaque. See Demon.]
1.
Pertaining to, or characteristic of, a demon or evil spirit; devilish; as, a demoniac being; demoniacal practices.

Sarcastic, demoniacal laughter.
Thackeray.

2.
Influenced or produced by a demon or evil spirit; as, demoniac or demoniacal power.
Demoniac
Milton.

3.
resembling or suggesting possession by a demon; as, demoniac energy.

4.
in a murderous frenzy as if possessed by a demon.

Syn. -- amuck, amok, berserk, demoniac, possessed(predicate).


word: Demoniac
definition:
Demoniac

De*mo"ni*ac
(?)
n.
1.
A human being possessed by a demon or evil spirit; one whose faculties are directly controlled by a demon.

The demoniac in the gospel was sometimes cast into the fire.
Bates.

2.
(Eccl. Hist.)
One of a sect of Anabaptists who maintain that the demons or devils will finally be saved.


word: Demonic
definition:
Demonic

De*mo"nic
(?)
a.
[L. daemonicus, Gr. daimoniko`s.]
Of or pertaining to a demon or to demons; demoniac.
Demonic
Lowell.


word: Demonism
definition:
Demonism

De"mon*ism
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. démonisme.]
The belief in demons or false gods.

The established theology of the heathen world . . . rested upon the basis of demonism.
Farmer.


word: Demonize
definition:
Demonize

De"mon*ize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Demonized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Demonizing.]
[Cf. LL. daemonizare to be possessed by a demon, Gr. _;.]
1.
To convert into a demon; to infuse the principles or fury of a demon into.

2.
To control or possess by a demon.


word: Demonocracy
definition:
Demonocracy

De`mon*oc"ra*cy
(?)
n.
[Gr. dai`mwn demon + kra`tos strength: cf. F. démonocratie.]
The power or government of demons.

A demonocracy of unclean spirits.
H. Taylor.


word: Demonolatry
definition:
Demonolatry

De`mon*ol"a*try
(?)
n.
[Gr. dai`mwn demon + latrei`a worship, _; to serve, worship: cf. F. démonolâtrie.]
The worship of demons.


word: Demonological
definition:
Demonological

Demonologic

{ De`mon*o*log"ic (?), De`mon*o*log"ic*al (?), }
a.
[Cf. F. démonologique.]
Of or pertaining to demonology.


word: Demonology
definition:
Demonology

De`mon*ol"o*gy
(?; 277)
n.
[Demon + -logy: cf. F. démonologie.]
A treatise on demons; a supposititious science which treats of demons and their manifestations.
Sir W. Scott.


word: Demonomagy
definition:
Demonomagy

De`mon*om"a*gy
(?)
n.
[Gr. dai`mwn demon + magei`a magic.]
Magic in which the aid of demons is invoked; black or infernal magic.
Bp. Hurd.


word: Demonomania
definition:
Demonomania

De*mon`o*ma"ni*a
(?)
n.
[Demon + mania.]
A form of madness in which the patient conceives himself possessed of devils.


word: Demonomy
definition:
Demonomy

De*mon"o*my
(?)
n.
[Gr. dai`mwn demon + no`mos law.]
The dominion of demons.
[R.]
Sir T. Herbert.


word: Demonstrable
definition:
Demonstrable

De*mon"stra*ble
(?)
a.
[L. demonstrabilis: cf. OF. demonstrable, F. démontrable.]
1.
Capable of being demonstrated; that can be proved beyond doubt or question.

The grand articles of our belief are as demonstrable as geometry.
Glanvill.

2.
Proved; apparent.
[Obs.]
Shak.


word: Demonstrably
definition:
Demonstrably

De*mon"stra*bly
adv.
In a demonstrable manner; incontrovertibly; clearly.

Cases that demonstrably concerned the public cause.
Clarendon.


word: Demonstrate
definition:
Demonstrate

Dem"on*strate
(?; 277)
v. t.
[L. demonstratus, p. p. of demonstrare to demonstrate; de- + monstrare to show. See Monster.]
1.
To point out; to show; to exhibit; to make evident.
Shak.

2.
To show, or make evident, by reasoning or proof; to prove by deduction; to establish so as to exclude the possibility of doubt or denial.

We can not demonstrate these things so as to show that the contrary often involves a contradiction.
Tillotson.

3.
(Anat.)
To exhibit and explain (a dissection or other anatomical preparation).


word: demonstrated
definition:
demonstrated

demonstrated
adj.
having been proved or verified beyond doubt; proved by demonstration.


word: Demonstration
definition:
Demonstration

Dem`on*stra"tion
(?)
n.
[L. demonstratio: cf. F. démonstration.]
1.
The act of demonstrating; an exhibition; proof; especially, proof beyond the possibility of doubt; indubitable evidence, to the senses or reason.

Those intervening ideas which serve to show the agreement of any two others are called “proofs;” and where agreement or disagreement is by this means plainly and clearly perceived, it is called demonstration.
Locke.

2.
An expression, as of the feelings, by outward signs; a manifestation; a show.  See also sense 7 for a more specific related meaning.

Did your letters pierce the queen to any demonstration of grief?
Shak.

Loyal demonstrations toward the prince.
Prescott.

3.
(Anat.)
The exhibition and explanation of a dissection or other anatomical preparation.

4.
(Mil.) a decisive exhibition of force, or a movement indicating an attack.

5.
(Logic)
The act of proving by the syllogistic process, or the proof itself.

6.
(Math.)
A course of reasoning showing that a certain result is a necessary consequence of assumed premises; -- these premises being definitions, axioms, and previously established propositions.

7.
a public gathering of people to express some sentiment or feelings by explicit means, such as picketing, parading, carrying signs or shouting, usually in favor of or opposed to some action of government or of a business.

8.
the act of showing how a certain device, machine or product operates, or how a procedure is performed; -- usually done for the purpose of inducing prospective customers to buy a product; as, a demonstration of the simple operation of a microwave oven.

Direct demonstration, or Positive demonstration, (Logic & Math.), one in which the correct conclusion is the immediate sequence of reasoning from axiomatic or established premises; -- opposed to Indirect demonstration, or Negative demonstration (called also reductio ad absurdum), in which the correct conclusion is an inference from the demonstration that any other hypothesis must be incorrect.


word: Demonstrative
definition:
Demonstrative

De*mon"stra*tive
(?)
a.
[F. démonstratif, L. demonstrativus.]
1.
Having the nature of demonstration; tending to demonstrate; making evident; exhibiting clearly or conclusively.
Demonstrative
Dryden.

An argument necessary and demonstrative.
Hooker.

2.
Expressing, or apt to express, much; displaying feeling or sentiment; as, her nature was demonstrative.

3.
Consisting of eulogy or of invective.
Demonstrative
Blair.

Demonstrative pronoun (Gram.), a pronoun distinctly designating that to which it refers.


word: Demonstrative₂
definition:
Demonstrative

De*mon"stra*tive
n.
(Gram.)
A demonstrative pronoun; as, “this” and “that” are demonstratives.


word: Demonstratively
definition:
Demonstratively

De*mon"stra*tive*ly
(?)
adv.
In a manner fitted to demonstrate; clearly; convincingly; forcibly.


word: Demonstrator
definition:
Demonstrator

Dem"on*stra`tor
(?; 277)
n.
[L.: cf. F. démonstrateur.]
1.
One who demonstrates;
specif.
(a)
one who proves anything with certainty, or establishes it by indubitable evidence.
(b)
one who shows how a certain device operates or a procedure is performed.

2.
(Anat.)
A teacher of practical anatomy.

3.
a person who participates in a demonstration{7}.


word: Demoralization
definition:
Demoralization

De*mor`al*i*za"tion
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. démoralisation.]
The act of corrupting or subverting morals. Especially: The act of corrupting or subverting discipline, courage, hope, etc., or the state of being corrupted or subverted in discipline, courage, etc.; as, the demoralization of an army or navy.


word: Demoralize
definition:
Demoralize

De*mor"al*ize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Demoralized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Demoralizing.]
[F. démoraliser; pref. dé- (L. dis- or de) + moraliser. See Moralize.]
To corrupt or undermine in morals; to destroy or lessen the effect of moral principles on; to render corrupt or untrustworthy in morals, in discipline, in courage, spirit, etc.; to weaken in spirit or efficiency.

The demoralizing example of profligate power and prosperous crime.
Walsh.

The vices of the nobility had demoralized the army.
Bancroft.


word: demoralized
definition:
demoralized

demoralized
adj.
made less hopeful or enthusiastic; rendered pessimistic; as, the demoralized Iraqi ground troops put up little resistance.

Syn. -- discouraged, disheartened.


word: demoralizing
definition:
demoralizing

demoralizing
adj.
1.
discouraging.  Opposite of encouraging.

Syn. -- demoralising, disheartening, dispiriting.


word: Demosthenic
definition:
Demosthenic

Dem`os*then"ic
(?)
a.
[L. Demosthenicus: cf. F. Démosthénique.]
Pertaining to, or in the style of, Demosthenes, the Grecian orator.


word: Demote
definition:
Demote

De*mote"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Demoted (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Demoting (?).]
[Pref. de- + mote, as in promote; cf. L. demovere to remove.]
To reduce to a lower grade or rank, as in the military, one's employment, or in school; to assign to a lower position.

Syn. -- bump, relegate, kick downstairs, break one's rank.


word: Demotic
definition:
Demotic

De*mot"ic
(?)
a.
[Gr. dhmotiko`s, fr. dh^mos the people: cf. F. démotique.]
Of or pertaining to the people; popular; common.

Demotic alphabet or Demotic character, a form of writing used in Egypt after six or seven centuries before Christ, for books, deeds, and other such writings; a simplified form of the hieratic character; -- called also epistolographic character, and enchorial character. See Enchorial.


word: Demotics
definition:
Demotics

De*mot"ics
(?)
n.
The department of knowledge relative to the care and culture of the people; sociology in its broadest sense; -- in library cataloguing.


word: Demountable
definition:
Demountable

De*mount"a*ble
(?)
[See De-; Mount.]
Capable of being dismounted; -- said of a form of rim, for an automobile wheel, which can be removed with its tire from the wheel.


word: Demster
definition:
Demster

Dempster

{ Demp"ster (?; 215), Dem"ster (?), }
n.
[See Deemster.]
1.
A deemster.

2.
(O. Scots Law)
An officer whose duty it was to announce the doom or sentence pronounced by the court.


word: Demulce
definition:
Demulce

De*mulce"
(?)
v. t.
[L. demulcere; de- + mulcere to stroke, soothe.]
To soothe; to mollify; to pacify; to soften.
[R.]
Sir T. Elyot.


word: Demulcent
definition:
Demulcent

De*mul"cent
(?)
a.
[L. demulcens, p. pr. of demulcere.]
Softening; mollifying; soothing; assuasive; as, oil is demulcent.


word: Demulcent₂
definition:
Demulcent

De*mul"cent
n.
(Med.)
A substance, usually of a mucilaginous or oily nature, supposed to be capable of soothing an inflamed nervous membrane, or protecting it from irritation. Gum Arabic, glycerin, olive oil, etc., are demulcents.


word: Demur
definition:
Demur

De*mur"
(de̝*mûr")
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Demurred (de̝*mûrd"); p. pr. & vb. n. Demurring.]
[OF. demurer, demorer, demourer, to linger, stay, F. demeurer, fr. L. demorari; de- + morari to delay, tarry, stay, mora delay; prob. originally, time for thinking, reflection, and akin to memor mindful. See Memory.]
1.
To linger; to stay; to tarry.
[Obs.]

Yet durst not demur nor abide upon the camp.
Nicols.

2.
To delay; to pause; to suspend proceedings or judgment in view of a doubt or difficulty; to hesitate; to put off the determination or conclusion of an affair.

Upon this rub, the English embassadors thought fit to demur.
Hayward.

3.
To scruple or object; to take exception, especially on the basis of scruple or modesty; as, I demur to that statement; they wanted to make him president, but he demurred.

From the popular assertion that he was the smartest man in the world Gell-Mann was not predisposed to demur.
Timothy Ferris, in Coming of Age in the Milky Way (Doubleday, New York, 1989).

4.
(Law)
To interpose a demurrer. See Demurrer, 2.


word: Demur₂
definition:
Demur

De*mur"
v. t.
1.
To suspend judgment concerning; to doubt of or hesitate about.
[Obs.]

The latter I demur, for in their looks
Much reason, and in their actions, oft appears.
Milton.

2.
To cause delay to; to put off.
[Obs.]

He demands a fee,
And then demurs me with a vain delay.
Quarles.


word: Demur₃
definition:
Demur

De*mur"
n.
[OF. demor, demore, stay, delay. See Demur, v. i.]
Stop; pause; hesitation as to proceeding; suspense of decision or action; scruple.

All my demurs but double his attacks;
At last he whispers, “Do; and we go snacks.”
Pope.


word: Demure
definition:
Demure

De*mure"
(de̝*mūr")
a.
[Perh. from OF. de murs (i. e., de bonnes murs of good manners); de of + murs, mours, meurs, mors, F. mœurs, fr. L. mores (sing. mos) manners, morals (see Moral); or more prob. fr. OF. meür, F. mûr mature, ripe (see Mature) in a phrase preceded by de, as de mûre conduite of mature conduct.]
1.
Of sober or serious mien; composed and decorous in bearing; of modest look; staid; grave.

Sober, steadfast, and demure.
Milton.

Nan was very much delighted in her demure way, and that delight showed itself in her face and in her clear bright eyes.
W. Black.

2.
Affectedly modest, decorous, or serious; making a show of gravity.

A cat lay, and looked so demure, as if there had been neither life nor soul in her.
L'Estrange.

Miss Lizzy, I have no doubt, would be as demure and coquettish, as if ten winters more had gone over her head.
Miss Mitford.


word: Demurely
definition:
Demurely

De*mure"ly
adv.
In a demure manner; soberly; gravely; -- now, commonly, with a mere show of gravity or modesty.

They . . . looked as demurely as they could; for 't was a hanging matter to laugh unseasonably.
Dryden.


word: Demureness
definition:
Demureness

De*mure"ness
(de̝*mūr"nĕs)
n.
The state of being demure; gravity; the show of gravity or modesty.


word: Demurity
definition:
Demurity

De*mur"i*ty
(de̝*mūr"ĭ*t&ybreve_;)
n.
Demureness; also, one who is demure.
Sir T. Browne.


word: Demurrage
definition:
Demurrage

De*mur"rage
(?)
n.
[Cf. OF. demorage delay. See Demur.]
(Law)
(a)
The detention of a vessel by the freighter beyond the time allowed in her charter party for loading, unloading, or sailing.
(b)
The allowance made to the master or owner of the ship for such delay or detention.

The claim for demurrage ceases as soon as the ship is cleared out and ready for sailing.
M‘Culloch.

&hand_; The term is also applied to similar delays and allowances in land carriage, by wagons, railroads, etc.


word: Demurral
definition:
Demurral

De*mur"ral
(?)
n.
Demur; delay in acting or deciding.

The same causes of demurral existed which prevented British troops from assisting in the expulsion of the French from Rome.
Southey.


word: Demurrer
definition:
Demurrer

De*mur"rer
(?)
n.
1.
One who demurs.

2.
(Law)
A stop or pause by a party to an action, for the judgment of the court on the question, whether, assuming the truth of the matter alleged by the opposite party, it is sufficient in law to sustain the action or defense, and hence whether the party resting is bound to answer or proceed further.

Demurrer to evidence, an exception taken by a party to the evidence offered by the opposite party, and an objecting to proceed further, on the allegation that such evidence is not sufficient in law to maintain the issue, and a reference to the court to determine the point. Bouvier.


word: Demy
definition:
Demy

De*my"
(?)
n.
pl. Demies (#).
[See Demi-.]
1.
A printing and a writing paper of particular sizes. See under Paper.

2.
A half fellow at Magdalen College, Oxford.
[Written also demi.]

He was elected into Magdalen College as a demy; a term by which that society denominates those elsewhere called “scholars,” young men who partake of the founder's benefaction, and succeed in their order to vacant fellowships.
Johnson.


word: demythologization
definition:
demythologization

demythologization
n.
the restatement of a message (as a religious one) in rational terms.

Syn. -- demythologisation.


word: demythologize
definition:
demythologize

demythologize
v. t.
to remove the mythical elements from; -- of writings, such as the Bible.


word: Den
definition:
Den

Den
(dĕn)
n.
[AS. denn; perh. akin to G. tenne floor, thrashing floor, and to AS. denu valley.]
1.
A small cavern or hollow place in the side of a hill, or among rocks; esp., a cave used by a wild beast for shelter or concealment; as, a lion's den; a den of robbers.

2.
A squalid place of resort; a wretched dwelling place; a haunt; as, a den of vice.
dens
Addison.

3.
Any snug or close retreat where one goes to be alone.
[Colloq.]

4.
[AS. denu.]
A narrow glen; a ravine; a dell.
[Old Eng. & Scotch]
Shak.


word: Denali
definition:
Denali

Denali
prop. n.
1.
The native name for Mount McKinley in Alaska, translated as the great one.

Syn. -- Mount McKinley.

2.
 a national park in Alaska in which Mount McKinley is located.

Syn. -- Denali national park.


word: Denarcotize
definition:
Denarcotize

De*nar"co*tize
(?)
v. t.
To deprive of narcotine; as, to denarcotize opium.
De*nar`co*ti*za"tion (#), n.


word: Denarius
definition:
Denarius

De*na"ri*us
(?)
n.
pl. Denarii (#).
[L. See 2d Denier.]
A Roman silver coin of the value of about fourteen cents; the “penny” of the New Testament; -- so called from being worth originally ten of the pieces called as.


word: Denary
definition:
Denary

Den"a*ry
(?)
a.
[L. denarius. See 2d Denier.]
Containing ten; tenfold; proceeding by tens; as, the denary, or decimal, scale.


word: Denary₂
definition:
Denary

Den"a*ry
n.
1.
The number ten; a division into ten.

2.
A coin; the Anglicized form of denarius.
Udall.


word: Denationalization
definition:
Denationalization

De*na`tion*al*i*za"tion
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. dénationalisation.]
The act or process of denationalizing.


word: Denationalize
definition:
Denationalize

De*na"tion*al*ize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Denationalized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Denationalizing.]
[Cf. F. dénationaliser.]
1.
To divest or deprive of national character or rights.

Bonaparte's decree denationalizes, as he calls it, all ships that have touched at a British port.
Cobbett.

An expatriated, denationalized race.
G. Eliot.

2.
to change (something, as an industry or business) from state to private ownership or control; as, the British denationalization of steel.

Syn. -- privatize, denationalise.


word: Denaturalize
definition:
Denaturalize

De*nat"u*ral*ize
(?; 135)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Denaturalized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Denaturalizing.]
[Cf. F. dénaturaliser.]
1.
To render unnatural; to alienate from nature.

2.
To renounce the natural rights and duties of; to deprive of citizenship; to denationalize.
[R.]

They also claimed the privilege, when aggrieved, of denaturalizing themselves, or, in other words, of publicly renouncing their allegiance to their sovereign, and of enlisting under the banners of his enemy.
Prescott.

3.
same as denature.


word: Denature
definition:
Denature

De*na"ture
(?)
v. t.
[De- + nature.]
To deprive of its natural qualities; change the nature of.

2.
to render (ethyl alcohol) unfit to drink by adding in toxic or unpalatable substances (such as benzene or pyridine) which nevertherless permit alcohol to be used as a solvent.

3.
modify the tertiary structure of (a protein or nucleic acid) so as to reduce or destroy its characteristic biological activity.
Bioactive macromolecules such as enzymes or DNA may be denatured by heat, acid, alkali, or solvent treatment; the extent of such treatment required to denature a molecule varies with the specific compound.  In some cases the denatured molecules may regain their original properties (renature) by other treatments.  Denaturation may also cause a change in the physical properties of such molecules, e.g. proteins may become insoluble in water.


word: Denay
definition:
Denay

De*nay"
(?)
v. t.
[See Deny.]
To deny.
[Obs.]

That with great rage he stoutly doth denay.
Spenser.


word: Dendrachate
definition:
Dendrachate

Den"dra*chate
(?)
n.
[L. dendrachates; Gr. de`ndron a tree + _; agate: cf. F. dendrachate, dendragate.]
(Min.)
Arborescent or dendritic agate.


word: Dendranthema
definition:
Dendranthema

Dendranthema
n.
a genus comprising plants often included in the genus Chrysanthemum.

Syn. -- genus Dendranthema.


word: Dendraspis
definition:
Dendraspis

Dendraspis
prop. n.
a genus of African snakes comprising the mambas.

Syn. -- Dendroaspis, genus Dendroaspis, genus Dendraspis.


word: Dendriform
definition:
Dendriform

Den"dri*form
(?)
a.
[Gr. de`ndron tree + -form.]
Resembling in structure a tree or shrub; having a branching shape.

Syn. -- arboreal, arboreous, arborescent, arboresque, arboriform, dendroid, dendroidal, treelike, tree-shaped.


word: Dendrite
definition:
Dendrite

Den"drite
(?)
n.
[Gr. dendri`ths, fem. dendri^tis, of a tree, fr. de`ndron a tree: cf. F. dendrite.]
(Min.)
A stone or mineral on or in which are branching figures resembling shrubs or trees, produced by a foreign mineral, usually an oxide of manganese, as in the moss agate; also, a crystallized mineral having an arborescent form, e. g., gold or silver; an arborization.


word: Dendritical
definition:
Dendritical

Dendritic

{ Den*drit"ic (?), Den*drit"ic*al (?), }
a.
Pertaining to a dendrite, or to arborescent crystallization; having a form resembling a shrub or tree; arborescent.


word: Dendroaspis
definition:
Dendroaspis

Dendroaspis
prop. n.
a genus of African snakes comprising the mambas.

Syn. -- Dendraspis, genus Dendroaspis, genus Dendroaspis.


word: Dendrocoela
definition:
Dendrocoela

Den`dro*cœ"la
(?)
n. pl.
[NL., fr. Gr. de`ndron tree + koi^los hollow.]
(Zool.)
A division of the Turbellaria in which the digestive cavity gives off lateral branches, which are often divided into smaller branchlets.


word: Dendroidal
definition:
Dendroidal

Dendroid

{ Den"droid (?), Den*droid"al (?), }
a.
[Gr. _; treelike; de`ndron tree + e'i^dos form: cf. F. dendroïde.]
Resembling a shrub or tree in form; treelike; branching.

Syn. -- arboreal, arboreous, arborescent, arboresque, arboriform, dendriform, treelike, tree-shaped.


word: Dendrolagus
definition:
Dendrolagus

Dendrolagus
prop. n.
a genus comprising the tree wallabies.

Syn. -- genus Dendrolagus.


word: Dendrolite
definition:
Dendrolite

Den"dro*lite
(?)
n.
[Gr. de`ndron tree + -lite: cf. F. dendrolithe.]
(Paleon.)
A petrified or fossil shrub, plant, or part of a plant.


word: dendrology
definition:
dendrology

den*drol"o*gy
(?)
n.
[Gr. de`ndron tree + -logy: cf. F. dendrologie.]
1.
the branch of botany studying trees and shrubs; the natural history of trees.

2.
A discourse or treatise on trees.


word: Dendromecon
definition:
Dendromecon

Dendromecon
prop. n.
a genus having only one species, the bush poppy.

Syn. -- genus Dendromecon.


word: Dendrometer
definition:
Dendrometer

Den*drom"e*ter
(?)
n.
[Gr. de`ndron tree + -meter: cf. F. dendromètre.]
An instrument to measure the height and diameter of trees.


word: Dengue
definition:
Dengue

Den"gue
(dĕ&nsmacr_;"ga̝)
n.
[See Note, below.]
(Med.)
A specific epidemic disease attended with high fever, cutaneous eruption, and severe pains in the head and limbs, resembling those of rheumatism; -- called also breakbone fever. It occurs in India, Egypt, the West Indies, etc., is of short duration, and rarely fatal.

&hand_; This disease, when it first appeared in the British West India Islands, was called the dandy fever, from the stiffness and constraint which it grave to the limbs and body. The Spaniards of the neighboring islands mistook the term for their word dengue, denoting prudery, which might also well express stiffness, and hence the term dengue became, as last, the name of the disease.  Tully.


word: Denial
definition:
Denial

De*ni"al
(?)
n.
[See Deny.]
1.
The act of gainsaying, refusing, or disowning; negation; -- the contrary of affirmation.

You ought to converse with so much sincerity that your bare affirmation or denial may be sufficient.
Bp. Stillingfleet.

2.
A refusal to admit the truth of a statement, charge, imputation, etc.; assertion of the untruth of a thing stated or maintained; a contradiction.

3.
A refusal to grant; rejection of a request.

The commissioners, . . . to obtain from the king's subjects as much as they would willingly give, . . . had not to complain of many peremptory denials.
Hallam.

4.
A refusal to acknowledge; disclaimer of connection with; disavowal; -- the contrary of confession; as, the denial of a fault charged on one; a denial of God.

Denial of one's self, a declining of some gratification; restraint of one's appetites or propensities; self-denial.


word: Denier₂
definition:
Denier

De*nier"
(?)
n.
[F. denier, fr. L. denarius a Roman silver coin orig. equiv. to ten asses, later, a copper, fr. deni ten by ten, fr. the root of decem ten; akin to E. ten. See Ten, and cf. Denary, Dinar.]
A small copper coin of insignificant value.

My dukedom to a beggarly denier.
Shak.


word: Denigrate
definition:
Denigrate

Den"i*grate
(?)
v. t.
[L. denigrare; de- + nigrare to blacken, niger black.]
1.
To blacken thoroughly; to make very black.
Boyle.

2.
Fig.: To blacken or sully; to defame.
[R.]

To denigrate the memory of Voltaire.
Morley.


word: denigrating
definition:
denigrating

denigrating
adj.
harmful and often untrue; tending to discredit or malign; -- used of statements.

Syn. -- calumniatory, calumnious, defamatory, denigrative, libellous, libelous, slanderous.


word: Denigration
definition:
Denigration

Den`i*gra"tion
(?)
n.
[L. denigratio.]
1.
The act of making black.
Boyle.

2.
Fig.: A blackening; defamation.

The vigorous denigration of science.
Morley.


word: Denitration
definition:
Denitration

Den`i*tra"tion
(?)
n.
[Pref. de- + nitrate.]
A disengaging, or removal, of nitric acid.


word: Denitrification
definition:
Denitrification

De*ni`tri*fi*ca"tion
(?)
n.
The act or process of freeing from nitrogen; also, the condition resulting from the removal of nitrogen.


word: Denitrify
definition:
Denitrify

De*ni"tri*fy
(?)
v. t.
[Pref. de- + nitrogen + -fy.]
To deprive of, or free from, nitrogen.


word: Denization
definition:
Denization

Den`i*za"tion
(?)
n.
The act of making one a denizen or adopted citizen; naturalization.
Hallam.


word: Denize
definition:
Denize

De*nize"
(de̝*nīz")
v. t.
To make a denizen; to confer the rights of citizenship upon; to naturalize.
[Obs.]

There was a private act made for denizing the children of Richard Hills.
Strype.


word: Denizen
definition:
Denizen

Den"i*zen
(dĕn"ĭ*z'n)
n.
[OF. denzein, deinzein, prop., one living (a city or country); opposed to forain foreign, and fr. denz within, F. dans, fr. L. de intus, prop., from within, intus being from in in. See In, and cf. Foreign.]
1.
A dweller; an inhabitant.
Denizens
Pope.

Denizens of their own free, independent state.
Sir W. Scott.

2.
One who is admitted by favor to all or a part of the rights of citizenship, where he did not possess them by birth; an adopted or naturalized citizen.

3.
One admitted to residence in a foreign country.

Ye gods,
Natives, or denizens, of blest abodes.
Dryden.


word: Denizen₂
definition:
Denizen

Den"i*zen
v. t.
1.
To constitute (one) a denizen; to admit to residence, with certain rights and privileges.

As soon as denizened, they domineer.
Dryden.

2.
To provide with denizens; to populate with adopted or naturalized occupants.

There [islets] were at once denizened by various weeds.
J. D. Hooker.


word: Denominate
definition:
Denominate

De*nom"i*nate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Denominated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Denominating (?).]
[L. denominatus, p. p. of denominare to name; de- + nominare to call by name. See Nominate.]
To give a name to; to characterize by an epithet; to entitle; to name; to designate.

Passions commonly denominating selfish.
Hume.


word: Denominate₂
definition:
Denominate

De*nom"i*nate
(?)
a.
[L. denominatus, p. p.]
Having a specific name or denomination; specified in the concrete as opposed to abstract; thus, 7 feet is a denominate quantity, while 7 is mere abstract quantity or number. See Compound number, under Compound.


word: Denomination
definition:
Denomination

De*nom`i*na"tion
(?)
n.
[L. denominatio metonymy: cf. F. dénomination a naming.]
1.
The act of naming or designating.

2.
That by which anything is denominated or styled; an epithet; a name, designation, or title; especially, a general name indicating a class of like individuals; a category; as, the denomination of units, or of thousands, or of fourths, or of shillings, or of tons.

Those [qualities] which are classed under the denomination of sublime.
Burke.

3.
A class, or society of individuals, called by the same name; a sect; as, a denomination of Christians.


word: Denominational
definition:
Denominational

De*nom`i*na"tion*al
(?)
a.
Pertaining to a denomination, especially to a sect or society.
Denominational
Buckle.


word: Denominationalism
definition:
Denominationalism

De*nom`i*na"tion*al*ism
(?)
n.
A denominational or class spirit or policy; devotion to the interests of a sect or denomination.


word: Denominationalist
definition:
Denominationalist

De*nom`i*na"tion*al*ist
n.
One imbued with a denominational spirit.
The Century.


word: Denominative
definition:
Denominative

De*nom`i*na"tive
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. dénominatif.]
1.
Conferring a denomination or name.

2.
(Logic)
Connotative; as, a denominative name.

3.
Possessing, or capable of possessing, a distinct denomination or designation; denominable.

The least denominative part of time is a minute.
Cocker.

4.
(Gram.)
Derived from a substantive or an adjective; as, a denominative verb.


word: Denominative₂
definition:
Denominative

De*nom`i*na"tive
n.
A denominative name or term; denominative verb.
Jer. Taylor. Harkness.


word: Denominator
definition:
Denominator

De*nom"i*na`tor
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. dénominateur.]
1.
One who, or that which, gives a name; origin or source of a name.

This opinion that Aram . . . was the father and denomination of the Syrians in general.
Sir W. Raleigh.

2.
(Arith.)
That number placed below the line in common fractions which shows into how many parts the integer or unit is divided.

&hand_; Thus, in 3/5, 5 is the denominator, showing that the integer is divided into five parts; and the numerator, 3, shows how many parts are taken.

3.
(Alg.)
That part of any expression under a fractional form which is situated below the horizontal line signifying division.

&hand_; In this sense, the denominator is not necessarily a number, but may be any expression, either positive or negative, real or imaginary.
Davies & Peck (Math. Dict.)

common denominator a number which can divide either of two or more other numbers without leaving a remainder in any of the divisions; as, 2 and 4 are common denominators of 12 and 28.. -- greatest common denominator the largest common denominator of two or more numbers; as, 9 is the greatest common denominator of 18 and 27..


word: Denotate
definition:
Denotate

De*no"tate
(?)
v. t.
[L. denotatus, p. p. of denotare.]
To mark off; to denote.
[Archaic]

These terms denotate a longer time.
Burton.

What things should be denotated and signified by the color.
Urquhart.


word: Denotation
definition:
Denotation

De`no*ta"tion
(?)
n.
[L. denotatio: cf. F. dénotation.]
The marking off or separation of anything.
Hammond.


word: Denotative
definition:
Denotative

De*not"a*tive
(?)
a.
Having power to denote; designating or marking off.

Proper names are preëminently denotative; telling us that such as object has such a term to denote it, but telling us nothing as to any single attribute.
Latham.


word: Denote
definition:
Denote

De*note"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Denoted; p. pr. & vb. n. Denoting.]
[L. denotare; de- + notare to mark, nota mark, sign, note: cf. F. dénoter. See Note.]
1.
To mark out plainly; to signify by a visible sign; to serve as the sign or name of; to indicate; to point out; as, the hands of the clock denote the hour.

The better to denote her to the doctor.
Shak.

2.
To be the sign of; to betoken; to signify; to mean.

A general expression to denote wickedness of every sort.
Gilpin.


word: Denotement
definition:
Denotement

De*note"ment
(?)
n.
Sign; indication.
[R.]

&hand_; A word found in some editions of Shakespeare.


word: Denouement
definition:
Denouement

Dé`noue`ment"
(?)
n.
[F. dénouement, fr. dénouer to untie; pref. dé- (L. dis-) + nouer to tie, fr. L. nodus knot, perh. for gnodus and akin to E. knot.]
1.
The unraveling or discovery of a plot; the catastrophe, especially of a drama or a romance.

2.
The solution of a mystery; issue; outcome.


word: Denounce
definition:
Denounce

De*nounce"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Denounced (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Denouncing.]
[F.  dénoncer, OF. denoncier, fr. L. denuntiare, denunciare; de- + nunciare, nuntiare, to announce, report, nuntius a messenger, message. See Nuncio, and cf. Denunciate.]
1.
To make known in a solemn or official manner; to declare; to proclaim (especially an evil).
[Obs.]

Denouncing wrath to come.
Milton.

I denounce unto you this day, that ye shall surely perish.
Deut. xxx. 18.

2.
To proclaim in a threatening manner; to threaten by some outward sign or expression.

His look denounced desperate.
Milton.

3.
To point out as deserving of reprehension or punishment, etc.; to accuse in a threatening manner; to invoke censure upon; to stigmatize.

Denounced for a heretic.
Sir T. More.

To denounce the immoralities of Julius Cæsar.
Brougham.


word: Denouncement
definition:
Denouncement

De*nounce"ment
(?)
n.
[Cf. OF. denoncement.]
Solemn, official, or menacing announcement; denunciation.
[Archaic]

False is the reply of Cain, upon the denouncement of his curse.
Sir T. Browne.


word: Denouncer
definition:
Denouncer

De*noun"cer
(?)
n.
One who denounces, or declares, as a menace.

Here comes the sad denouncer of my fate.
Dryden.


word: Dense
definition:
Dense

Dense
(?)
a.
[L. densus; akin to Gr. _;  thick with hair or leaves: cf. F. dense.]
1.
Having the constituent parts massed or crowded together; close; compact; thick; containing much matter in a small space; heavy; opaque; as, a dense crowd; a dense forest; a dense fog.

All sorts of bodies, firm and fluid, dense and rare.
Ray.

To replace the cloudy barrier dense.
Cowper.

2.
Stupid; gross; crass; as, dense ignorance.


word: densification
definition:
densification

densification
n.
an increase in the density of something.

Syn. -- compaction, compression, concretion.


word: Densimeter
definition:
Densimeter

Den*sim"e*ter
(?)
n.
[L. densus dense + -meter: cf. F. densimètre.]
An instrument for ascertaining the specific gravity or density of a substance.


word: densitometer
definition:
densitometer

densitometer
n.
1.
an instrument for determining optical or photographic density.  A variety capable of measuring optical density of a sample at a number of different wavelengths, is called a spectrophotometer.

2.
same as densimeter.


word: densitometry
definition:
densitometry

densitometry
n.
measuring the optical density of a substance by shining light through it and measuring the intensity of the transmitted light.


word: Density
definition:
Density

Den"si*ty
(dĕn"sĭ*t&ybreve_;)
n.
[L. densitas; cf. F. densité.]
1.
The quality of being dense, close, or thick; compactness; -- opposed to rarity.

2.
(Physics)
The ratio of mass, or quantity of matter, to bulk or volume, esp. as compared with the mass and volume of a portion of some substance used as a standard.

&hand_; For gases the standard substance is hydrogen, at a temperature of 0° Centigrade and a pressure of 760 millimeters. For liquids and solids the standard is water at a temperature of 4° Centigrade. The density of solids and liquids is usually called specific gravity, and the same is true of gases when referred to air as a standard.

3.
(Photog.)
Depth of shade.
Abney.


word: Dent
definition:
Dent

Dent
(dĕnt)
n.
[A variant of Dint.]
1.
A stroke; a blow.
[Obs.]
dent
Chaucer.

2.
A slight depression, or small notch or hollow, made by a blow or by pressure; an indentation.

A blow that would have made a dent in a pound of butter.
De Quincey.


word: Dent₂
definition:
Dent

Dent
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Dented; p. pr. & vb. n. Denting.]
To make a dent upon; to indent.

The houses dented with bullets.
Macaulay.


word: Dent₃
definition:
Dent

Dent
n.
[F., fr. L. dens, dentis, tooth. See Tooth.]
(Mach.)
A tooth, as of a card, a gear wheel, etc.
Knight.


word: dental
definition:
dental

den"tal
(dĕn"tal)
a.
[L. dens, dentis, tooth: cf. F. dental. See Tooth.]
1.
Of or pertaining to the teeth or to dentistry; as, dental surgery.

2.
(Phon.)
Formed by the aid of the teeth; -- said of certain articulations and the letters representing them; as, d and t are dental letters.

Dental formula (Zool.), a brief notation used by zoologists to denote the number and kind of teeth of a mammal. -- Dental surgeon, a dentist.


word: Dental
definition:
Dental

Den"tal
n.
[Cf. F. dentale. See Dental, a.]
1.
An articulation or letter formed by the aid of the teeth.

2.
(Zool.)
A marine mollusk of the genus Dentalium, with a curved conical shell resembling a tooth. See Dentalium.


word: Dentalium
definition:
Dentalium

Den*ta"li*um
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. L. dens, dentis, tooth.]
(Zool.)
A genus of marine mollusks belonging to the Scaphopoda, having a tubular conical shell.


word: Dentaria
definition:
Dentaria

Dentaria
n.
a genus usually included in genus Cardamine; in some classifications considered a separate genus.

Syn. -- genus Dentaria.


word: Dentary
definition:
Dentary

Den"ta*ry
(?)
a.
(Anat.)
Pertaining to, or bearing, teeth.
n. The distal bone of the lower jaw in many animals, which may or may not bear teeth.


word: Dentated
definition:
Dentated

Dentate

{ Den"tate (dĕn"ta̝t), Den"ta*ted (dĕn"ta̝*tĕd), }
a.
[L. dentatus, fr. dens, dentis, tooth.]
1.
(Bot.)
Toothed; especially, with the teeth projecting straight out, not pointed either forward or backward; as, a dentate leaf.

2.
(Zool.)
Having teeth or toothlike points. See Illust. of Antennæ.


word: Dentate-ciliate
definition:
Dentate-ciliate

Den"tate-cil"i*ate
(?)
a.
(Bot.)
Having the margin dentate and also ciliate or fringed with hairs.


word: Dentate-sinuate
definition:
Dentate-sinuate

Den"tate-sin"u*ate
(?)
a.
(Bot.)
Having a form intermediate between dentate and sinuate.


word: Dentation
definition:
Dentation

Den*ta"tion
(?)
n.
Formation of teeth; toothed form.
[R.]

How did it [a bill] get its barb, its dentation?
Paley.


word: Dentelli
definition:
Dentelli

Den*tel"li
(?)
n. pl.
[It., sing. dentello, prop., little tooth, dim. of dente tooth, L. dens, dentis.  Cf. Dentil.]
Modillions.
Spectator.


word: Dentex
definition:
Dentex

Den"tex
(?)
n.
[NL., cf. L. dentix a sort of sea fish.]
(Zool.)
An edible European marine fish (Sparus dentex, or Dentex vulgaris) of the family Percidæ.


word: Denticete
definition:
Denticete

Den`ti*ce"te
(?)
n. pl.
[NL., fr. L. dens, dentis, tooth + cetus, pl. cete, whale, Gr. _;.]
(Zool.)
The division of Cetacea in which the teeth are developed, including the sperm whale, dolphins, etc.


word: Denticle
definition:
Denticle

Den"ti*cle
(?)
n.
[L. denticulus a little tooth, dim. of dens, dentis, tooth. See Dental, and cf. Dentelli.]
A small tooth or projecting point.


word: Denticulated
definition:
Denticulated

Denticulate

{ Den*tic"u*late (?), Den*tic"u*la`ted (?), }
a.
[L. denticulatus, fr. denticulus. See Denticle.]
Furnished with denticles; notched into little toothlike projections; as, a denticulate leaf of calyx.
Den*tic"u*late*ly (#), adv.


word: Denticulation
definition:
Denticulation

Den*tic`u*la"tion
(?)
n.
1.
The state of being set with small notches or teeth.
Grew.

2.
(Bot. & Zool.)
A diminutive tooth; a denticle.


word: Dentiform
definition:
Dentiform

Den"ti*form
(?)
a.
[L. dens, dentis, tooth + -form: cf. F. dentiforme.]
Having the form of a tooth or of teeth; tooth-shaped.


word: Dentifrice
definition:
Dentifrice

Den"ti*frice
(?)
n.
[L. dentifricium; dens, dentis, tooth + fricare to rub: cf. F. dentifrice. See Tooth, and Friction.]
A powder or other substance to be used in cleaning the teeth; tooth powder.


word: Dentigerous
definition:
Dentigerous

Den*tig"er*ous
(?)
a.
[L. dens, dentis, tooth + -gerous.]
Bearing teeth or toothlike structures.


word: Dentil
definition:
Dentil

Den"til
(?)
n.
[LL. dentillus, for L. denticulus.  Cf. Dentelli, Denticle, Dentile.]
(Arch.)
A small square block or projection in cornices, a number of which are ranged in an ornamental band; -- used particularly in the Ionic, Corinthian, and Composite orders.


word: Dentilabial
definition:
Dentilabial

Den`ti*la"bi*al
(?)
a.
Formed by the teeth and the lips, or representing a sound so formed.
n. A dentilabial sound or letter.


word: Dentilave
definition:
Dentilave

Den"ti*lave
(?)
n.
[L. dens, dentis, tooth + lavare to wash.]
A wash for cleaning the teeth.


word: Dentile
definition:
Dentile

Den"tile
(?)
n.
[LL. dentillus, for L. denticulus. See Dentil.]
(Zool.)
A small tooth, like that of a saw.


word: Dentilingual
definition:
Dentilingual

Den`ti*lin"gual
(?)
a.
[L. dens tooth + E. lingual.]
Produced by applying the tongue to the teeth or to the gums; or representing a sound so formed.
n. A dentilingual sound or letter.

The letters of this fourth, dentilingual or linguidental, class, viz., d, t, s, z, l, r.
Am. Cyc.


word: Dentiloquist
definition:
Dentiloquist

Den*til"o*quist
(?)
n.
One who speaks through the teeth, that is, with the teeth closed.


word: Dentiloquy
definition:
Dentiloquy

Den*til"o*quy
(?)
n.
[L. dens, dentis, tooth + loqui to speak.]
The habit or practice of speaking through the teeth, or with them closed.


word: Dentine
definition:
Dentine

Den"tine
(dĕn"tĭn)
n.
[Cf. F. dentine.]
(Anat.)
The dense calcified substance of which teeth are largely composed. It contains less animal matter than bone, and in the teeth of man is situated beneath the enamel.


word: Dentiphone
definition:
Dentiphone

Den"ti*phone
(dĕn"tĭ*f&omacrn)
n.
[L. dens, dentis, tooth + Gr. fwnh` sound.]
An instrument which, placed against the teeth, conveys sound to the auditory nerve; an audiphone.
Knight.


word: Dentiroster
definition:
Dentiroster

Den`ti*ros"ter
(?)
n.
pl. Dentirostres (#).
[NL., fr. L. dens, dentis, tooth + rostrum bill, beak: cf. F. dentirostre.]
(Zool.)
A dentirostral bird.


word: Dentirostral
definition:
Dentirostral

Den`ti*ros"tral
(?)
a.
(Zool.)
Having a toothed bill; -- applied to a group of passerine birds, having the bill notched, and feeding chiefly on insects, as the shrikes and vireos. See Illust. (N) under Beak.


word: Dentiscalp
definition:
Dentiscalp

Den"ti*scalp
(?)
n.
[L. dens tooth + scalpere to scrape.]
An instrument for scraping the teeth.


word: Dentist
definition:
Dentist

Den"tist
(?)
n.
[From L. dens, dentis, tooth: cf. F. dentiste. See Tooth.]
One whose business it is to clean, extract, or repair natural teeth, and to make and insert artificial ones; a dental surgeon.


word: Dentistical
definition:
Dentistical

Dentistic

{ Den*tis"tic (?), Den*tis"ti*cal (?), }
a.
Pertaining to dentistry or to dentists.
[R.]


word: Dentition
definition:
Dentition

Den*ti"tion
(?)
n.
[L. dentitio, fr. dentire to cut teeth, fr. dens, dentis, tooth. See Dentist.]
1.
The development and cutting of teeth; teething.

2.
(Zool.)
The system of teeth peculiar to an animal.


word: Dentize
definition:
Dentize

Den"tize
(?)
v. t. & i.
[imp. & p. p. Dentized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Dentizing.]
[L. dens, dentis, tooth.]
To breed or cut new teeth.
[R.]

The old countess . . . did dentize twice or thrice.
Bacon.


word: Denture
definition:
Denture

Den"ture
(?; 135)
n.
[L. dens, dentis, tooth: cf. F. denture, OF. denteure.]
(Dentistry)
An artificial tooth, block, or set of teeth.


word: Denudate
definition:
Denudate

De*nud"ate
(?)
v. t.
[L. denudatus, p. p. of denudare. See Denude.]
To denude.
[Obs. or R.]


word: Denudation
definition:
Denudation

Den`u*da"tion
(?; 277)
n.
[L. denudatio: cf. F. dénudation.]
1.
The act of stripping off covering, or removing the surface; a making bare.

2.
(Geol.)
The laying bare of rocks by the washing away of the overlying earth, etc.; or the excavation and removal of them by the action of running water.


word: Denude
definition:
Denude

De*nude"
(?)
v. t.
[L. denudare; de- + nudare to make naked or bare, nudus naked. See Nude.]
To divest of all covering; to make bare or naked; to strip; to divest; as, to denude one of clothing, or lands; the hurricane denuded the trees.


word: Denunciate
definition:
Denunciate

De*nun"ci*ate
(?)
v. t.
[L. denuntiatus, denunciatus, p. p. of denuntiare, -ciare. See Denounce.]
To denounce; to condemn publicly or solemnly.
[R.]

To denunciate this new work.
Burke.


word: Denunciation
definition:
Denunciation

De*nun`ci*a"tion
(?)
n.
[L. denuntiatio, -ciatio.]
1.
Proclamation; announcement; a publishing.
[Obs.]

Public . . . denunciation of banns before marriage.
Bp. Hall.

2.
The act of denouncing; public menace or accusation; the act of inveighing against, stigmatizing, or publicly arraigning; arraignment.

3.
That by which anything is denounced; threat of evil; public menace or accusation; arraignment.

Uttering bold denunciations of ecclesiastical error.
Motley.


word: Denunciative
definition:
Denunciative

De*nun"ci*a*tive
(?)
a.
[L. denuntiativus, -ciativus, monitory.]
Same as Denunciatory.
Farrar.


word: Denunciator
definition:
Denunciator

De*nun"ci*a`tor
(?)
n.
[L. denuntiator, -ciator, a police officer.]
One who denounces, publishes, or proclaims, especially intended or coming evil; one who threatens or accuses.


word: Denunciatory
definition:
Denunciatory

De*nun"ci*a*to*ry
(?)
a.
Characterized by or containing a denunciation; minatory; accusing; threatening; as, severe and denunciatory language.


word: Denutrition
definition:
Denutrition

De`nu*tri"tion
(?)
n.
(Physiol.)
The opposition of nutrition; the failure of nutrition causing the breaking down of tissue.


word: Deny
definition:
Deny

De*ny"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Denied (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Denying.]
[OE. denien, denaien, OF. denier, deneer, F. dénier, fr. L. denegare; de- + negare to say no, deny. See Negation.]
1.
To declare not to be true; to gainsay; to contradict; -- opposed to affirm, allow, or admit.

&hand_; We deny what another says, or we deny the truth of an assertion, the force of it, or the assertion itself.

2.
To refuse (to do something or to accept something); to reject; to decline; to renounce.
[Obs.]
deny
Shak.

3.
To refuse to grant; to withhold; to refuse to gratify or yield to; as, to deny a request.

Who finds not Providence all good and wise,
Alike in what it gives, and what denies?
Pope.

To some men, it is more agreeable to deny a vicious inclination, than to gratify it.
J. Edwards.

4.
To disclaim connection with, responsibility for, and the like; to refuse to acknowledge; to disown; to abjure; to disavow.

The falsehood of denying his opinion.
Bancroft.

Thou thrice denied, yet thrice beloved.
Keble.

To deny one's self, to decline the gratification of appetites or desires; to practice self-denial.

Let him deny himself, and take up his cross.
Matt. xvi. 24.


word: Deny₂
definition:
Deny

De*ny"
v. i.
To answer in _;_;_; negative; to declare an assertion not to be true.

Then Sarah denied, saying, I laughed not; for she was afraid.
Gen. xviii. 15.


word: Deobstruct
definition:
Deobstruct

De`ob*struct"
(?)
v. t.
To remove obstructions or impediments in; to clear from anything that hinders the passage of fluids; as, to deobstruct the pores or lacteals.
Arbuthnot.


word: Deobstruent
definition:
Deobstruent

De*ob"stru*ent
(?)
a.
(Med.)
Removing obstructions; having power to clear or open the natural ducts of the fluids and secretions of the body; aperient.
n. (Med.) A medicine which removes obstructions; an aperient.


word: Deodand
definition:
Deodand

De"o*dand`
(?)
n.
[LL. deodandum, fr. L. Deo dandum to be given to God.]
(Old Eng. Law)
A personal chattel which had caused the death of a person, and for that reason was given to God, that is, forfeited to the crown, to be applied to pious uses, and distributed in alms by the high almoner. Thus, if a cart ran over a man and killed him, it was forfeited as a deodand.

&hand_; Deodands are unknown in American law, and in 1846 were abolished in England.


word: Deodar
definition:
Deodar

De`o*dar"
(?)
n.
[Native name, fr. Skr. dēvadāru, prop., timber of the gods.]
(Bot.)
A kind of cedar (Cedrus Deodara), growing in India, highly valued for its size and beauty as well as for its timber, and also grown in England as an ornamental tree.


word: Deodate
definition:
Deodate

De"o*date`
(?)
n.
[L. Deo to God (Deus God) + datum thing given.]
A gift or offering to God.
[Obs.]

Wherein that blessed widow's deodate was laid up.
Hooker.


word: Deodorization
definition:
Deodorization

De*o`dor*i*za"tion
(?)
n.
The act of depriving of odor, especially of offensive odors resulting from impurities.


word: Deodorize
definition:
Deodorize

De*o"dor*ize
(?)
v. t.
To deprive of odor, especially of such as results from impurities.


word: Deodorizer
definition:
Deodorizer

De*o"dor*i`zer
(?)
n.
He who, or that which, deodorizes; esp., an agent that destroys offensive odors.


word: Deonerate
definition:
Deonerate

De*on"er*ate
(?)
v. t.
[L. deoneratus, p. p. of deonerare. See Onerate.]
To unload; to disburden.
[Obs.]
Cockeram.


word: Deontology
definition:
Deontology

De`on*tol"o*gy
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; gen. _;, necessity, obligation (p. neut. of _; it is necessary) + -logy.]
The science which relates to duty or moral obligation.
J. Bentham.


word: Deoperculate
definition:
Deoperculate

De`o*per"cu*late
(?)
a.
(Bot.)
Having the lid removed; -- said of the capsules of mosses.


word: Deoppilate
definition:
Deoppilate

De*op"pi*late
(?)
v. t.
To free from obstructions; to clear a passage through.
[Obs.]
Boyle.


word: Deoppilation
definition:
Deoppilation

De*op`pi*la"tion
(?)
n.
Removal of whatever stops up the passages.
[Obs.]
Sir T. Browne.


word: Deordination
definition:
Deordination

De*or`di*na"tion
(?)
n.
[LL. deordinatio depraved morality.]
Disorder; dissoluteness.
[Obs.]

Excess of riot and deordination.
Jer. Taylor.


word: Deosculate
definition:
Deosculate

De*os"cu*late
(?)
v. t.
[L. deosculatus, p. p. of deosculari. See Osculate.]
To kiss warmly.
[Obs.]
De*os`cu*la"tion (#), n. [Obs.]


word: Deoxidation
definition:
Deoxidation

De*ox`i*da"tion
(?)
n.
(Chem.)
The act or process of reducing from the state of an oxide.


word: Deoxidize
definition:
Deoxidize

De*ox"i*dize
(?)
v. t.
(Chem.)
To deprive of oxygen; to reduce from the state of an oxide.


word: Deoxidizer
definition:
Deoxidizer

De*ox"i*di`zer
(?)
n.
(Chem.)
That which removes oxygen; hence, a reducing agent; as, nascent hydrogen is a deoxidizer.


word: deoxyribonucleic acid
definition:
deoxyribonucleic acid

deoxyribonucleic acid
n.
a nucleic acid, usually of very high molecular weight, consisting of a linear sequence of monomer units of deoxyribonucleotides, occurring in most organisms in pairs of strands, wound together in the form of a double helix; it is the main component of chromosomes and contains the genetic information which is the basis of heredity, transmitted from parent to progeny, and found in all living organisms except for certain viruses which have RNA as their basic genetic material; -- usually referred to by the acronym DNA.

Syn. -- DNA, desoxyribonucleic acid.

&hand_;  The monomer units making up the DNA each contain one of four heterocyclic bases: thymine, adenine, cytosine, or guanine. The genetic information is contained in the precise sequence of these monomer units, which ultimately specify the sequence of proteins to be made by the organism's biosynthetic processes, mediated through the synthesis of RNA having a base sequence corresponding to that of the DNA.  The DNA sequence also specifies the sequence of the various RNA molecules the RNA base sequence being a copy of that on one of the DNA strands.  Most of the RNA synthesized is involved in protein synthesis.  In the double-helical form of DNA, the thymine on one strand is paired with the adenine on the opposite strand, and cytosine of one strand is paired with guanine on the opposite strand.  There is in DNA also certain controlling information concerning the timing and amount of RNA to be made, encoded within the sequence of the DNA in ways that are still being elucidated.
    When this structure is replicated in the course of cell multiplication, two identical double-helical molecules are formed, each containing one strand from the original molecule.  Each resulting molecule is distributred to either the parent or progeny organism, and this is the basic mechanism for transmission of hereditary information.  In RNA-based viruses, or those having single strands of DNA (as certain viruses), the genetic information transmission occurs through a double-stranded intermediate by a similar mechanism.
    In some organisms slight modifications of the bases of DNA are found, such as methylcytosine or, in some viruses, uracil or hydroxymethyluracil; these unusual bases act analogously to the normal bases in their genetic coding function.  A small percentage of methylcytosine is found in many organisms, and it serves in some cases as a special signal, as for restriction enzymes.


word: deoxyribonucleotide
definition:
deoxyribonucleotide

deoxyribonucleotide
n.
an organic molecule consisting of a hereocyclic base attached to the 1-carbon of a deoxyribose ring, with a phosphate group esterified at the 5 position of the deoxyribose.  Deoxyribonuceotides are the monomer units which make up deoxyribonucleic acid, the molecule carrying the hereditary information in most organisms.  The most common forms of deoxyribonuceotide are thymidine-5′-phosphate (abbreviated TMP), deoxyadenosine-5′-phosphate (abbreviated dAMP), deoxyguanosine-5′-phosphate (abbreviated dGMP), and deoxycytidine-5′-phosphate (abbreviated dCMP).


word: deoxyribose
definition:
deoxyribose

deoxyribose
n.
a pentose (C5H10O4) in which one of the hydroxyl groups of ribose has been replaced by a hydrogen.  In deoxyribonucleic acids, the deoxyribose is D-2-deoxyribose, in which the hydroxyl at the 2 position of ribose is the one which is replaced by hydrogen.


word: Depaint
definition:
Depaint

De*paint"
(?)
p. p.
[F. dépeint, p. p. of dépeindre to paint, fr. L. depingere. See Depict, p. p.]
Painted.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: Depaint₂
definition:
Depaint

De*paint"
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Depainted; p. pr. & vb. n. Depainting.]
1.
To paint; to picture; hence, to describe; to delineate in words; to depict.
[Obs.]

And do unwilling worship to the saint
That on his shield depainted he did see.
Spenser.

In few words shall see the nature of many memorable persons . . . depainted.
Holland.

2.
To mark with, or as with, color; to color.

Silver drops her vermeil cheeks depaint.
Fairfax.


word: Depardieux
definition:
Depardieux

De*par"dieux`
(?)
interj.
[OF., a corruption of de part Dieu, lit., on the part of God.]
In God's name; certainly.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: Depart
definition:
Depart

De*part"
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Departed; p. pr. & vb. n. Departing.]
[OE. departen to divide, part, depart, F. départir to divide, distribute, se départir to separate one's self, depart; pref. dé- (L. de) +  partir to part, depart, fr. L. partire, partiri, to divide, fr. pars part. See Part.]
1.
To part; to divide; to separate.
[Obs.]
Shak.

2.
To go forth or away; to quit, leave, or separate, as from a place or a person; to withdraw; -- opposed to arrive; -- often with from before the place, person, or thing left, and for or to before the destination.

I will depart to mine own land.
Num. x. 30.

Ere thou from hence depart.
Milton.

He which hath no stomach to this fight,
Let him depart.
Shak.

3.
To forsake; to abandon; to desist or deviate (from); not to adhere to; -- with from; as, we can not depart from our rules; to depart from a title or defense in legal pleading.

If the plan of the convention be found to depart from republican principles.
Madison.

4.
To pass away; to perish.

The glory is departed from Israel.
1 Sam. iv. 21.

5.
To quit this world; to die.

Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace.
Luke ii. 29.

To depart with, to resign; to part with. [Obs.] Shak.


word: Depart₂
definition:
Depart

De*part"
v. t.
1.
To part thoroughly; to dispart; to divide; to separate.
[Obs.]

Till death departed them, this life they lead.
Chaucer.

2.
To divide in order to share; to apportion.
[Obs.]

And here is gold, and that full great plentee,
That shall departed been among us three.
Chaucer.

3.
To leave; to depart from.
departed
Addison.
depart
Shak.


word: Depart₃
definition:
Depart

De*part"
n.
[Cf. F. départ, fr. départir.]
1.
Division; separation, as of compound substances into their ingredients.
[Obs.]

The chymists have a liquor called water of depart.
Bacon.

2.
A going away; departure; hence, death.
[Obs.]

At my depart for France.
Shak.

Your loss and his depart.
Shak.


word: departed
definition:
departed

departed
n. sing. & pl.
someone who is no longer alive; as, let us pray for the departed.

Syn. -- dead person, dead soul, deceased person, deceased, decedent.


word: departed₂
definition:
departed

departed
adj.
1.
past; -- used of time; as, departed summers.

Syn. -- bygone, bypast, foregone, gone.

2.
dead; as, our dear departed parents.
[euphemistic]

Syn. -- asleep(predicate), at peace(predicate), at rest(predicate), cold, deceased, gone.


word: departing
definition:
departing

departing
adj.
leaving a starting or stopping point on a journey; as, Departing flights were delayed by the snowstorm.  Opposite of arriving.
[prenominal]

Syn. -- outbound, outward, outward-bound.


word: Department
definition:
Department

De*part"ment
(?)
n.
[F. département, fr. départir. See Depart, v. i.]
1.
Act of departing; departure.
[Obs.]

Sudden departments from one extreme to another.
Wotton.

2.
A part, portion, or subdivision.

3.
A distinct course of life, action, study, or the like; appointed sphere or walk; province.

Superior to Pope in Pope's own peculiar department of literature.
Macaulay.

4.
Subdivision of business or official duty; especially, one of the principal divisions of executive government; as, the treasury department; the war department; also, in a university, one of the divisions of instruction; as, the medical department; the department of physics.

5.
A territorial division; a district; esp., in France, one of the districts composed of several arrondissements into which the country is divided for governmental purposes; as, the Department of the Loire.

6.
A military subdivision of a country; as, the Department of the Potomac.


word: Department store
definition:
Department store

De*part"ment store
A store keeping a great variety of goods which are arranged in several departments.


word: Departure
definition:
Departure

De*par"ture
(?; 135)
n.
[From Depart.]
1.
Division; separation; putting away.
[Obs.]

No other remedy . . . but absolute departure.
Milton.

2.
Separation or removal from a place; the act or process of departing or going away.

Departure from this happy place.
Milton.

3.
Removal from the present life; death; decease.

The time of my departure is at hand.
2 Tim. iv. 6.

His timely departure . . . barred him from the knowledge of his son's miseries.
Sir P. Sidney.

4.
Deviation or abandonment, as from or of a rule or course of action, a plan, or a purpose.

Any departure from a national standard.
Prescott.

5.
(Law)
The desertion by a party to any pleading of the ground taken by him in his last antecedent pleading, and the adoption of another.
Bouvier.

6.
(Nav. & Surv.)
The distance due east or west which a person or ship passes over in going along an oblique line.

&hand_; Since the meridians sensibly converge, the departure in navigation is not measured from the beginning nor from the end of the ship's course, but is regarded as the total easting or westing made by the ship or person as he travels over the course.

To take a departure (Nav. & Surv.), to ascertain, usually by taking bearings from a landmark, the position of a vessel at the beginning of a voyage as a point from which to begin her dead reckoning; as, the ship took her departure from Sandy Hook.


word: Depascent
definition:
Depascent

De*pas"cent
(?)
a.
[L. depascens, p. pr. of depascere; de- + pascere to feed.]
Feeding.
[R.]


word: Depasture
definition:
Depasture

De*pas"ture
(?; 135)
v. t. & i.
To pasture; to feed; to graze; also, to use for pasture.
[R.]

Cattle, to graze and departure in his grounds.
Blackstone.

A right to cut wood upon or departure land.
Washburn.


word: Depatriate
definition:
Depatriate

De*pa"tri*ate
(?)
v. t. & i.
[L. de- + patria one's country.]
To withdraw, or cause to withdraw, from one's country; to banish.
[Obs.]

A subject born in any state
May, if he please, depatriate.
Mason.


word: Depauperate
definition:
Depauperate

De*pau"per*ate
(?)
v. t. & i.
[imp. & p. p. Depauperated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Depauperating (?).]
[LL. depauperatus, p. p. depauperare to impoverish; L. de- + pauperare to make poor, pauper poor.]
To make poor; to impoverish.

Liming does not depauperate; the ground will last long, and bear large grain.
Mortimer.

Humility of mind which depauperates the spirit.
Jer. Taylor.


word: Depauperate₂
definition:
Depauperate

De*pau"per*ate
(?)
a.
[L. depauperatus, p. p.]
(Bot.)
Falling short of the natural size, from being impoverished or starved.
Gray.


word: Depeach
definition:
Depeach

De*peach"
(?)
v. t.
[L. dépêcher. See Dispatch.]
To discharge.
[Obs.]

As soon as the party . . . before our justices shall be depeached.
Hakluyt.


word: Depectible
definition:
Depectible

De*pec"ti*ble
(?)
a.
[L. depectere to comb off; de- + pectere to comb.]
Tough; thick; capable of extension.
[Obs.]

Some bodies are of a more depectible nature than oil.
Bacon.


word: Depeculation
definition:
Depeculation

De*pec`u*la"tion
(?)
n.
[L. depeculari, p. p. depeculatus, to rob. See Peculate.]
A robbing or embezzlement.
[Obs.]

Depeculation of the public treasure.
Hobbes.


word: Depend
definition:
Depend

De*pend"
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Depended; p. pr. & vb. n. Depending.]
[F. dépendre, fr. L. depend_;re; de- + pend_;re to hang. See Pendant.]
1.
To hang down; to be sustained by being fastened or attached to something above.

And ever-living lamps depend in rows.
Pope.

2.
To hang in suspense; to be pending; to be undetermined or undecided; as, a cause depending in court.

You will not think it unnatural that those who have an object depending, which strongly engages their hopes and fears, should be somewhat inclined to superstition.
Burke.

3.
To rely for support; to be conditioned or contingent; to be connected with anything, as a cause of existence, or as a necessary condition; -- followed by on or upon, formerly by of.

The truth of God's word dependeth not of the truth of the congregation.
Tyndale.

The conclusion . . . that our happiness depends little on political institutions, and much on the temper and regulation of our own minds.
Macaulay.

Heaven forming each on other to depend.
Pope.

4.
To trust; to rest with confidence; to rely; to confide; to be certain; -- with on or upon; as, we depend on the word or assurance of our friends; we depend on the mail at the usual hour.

But if you 're rough, and use him like a dog,
Depend upon it -- he 'll remain incog.
Addison.

5.
To serve; to attend; to act as a dependent or retainer.
[Obs.]
Shak.

6.
To impend.
[Obs.]
Shak.


word: dependability
definition:
dependability

dependability
n.
the trait of being dependable or reliable.

Syn. -- dependableness, reliability, reliableness.


word: Dependancy
definition:
Dependancy

Dependance

Dependant

{ De*pend"ant (?), De*pend"ance (?), n., De*pend"an*cy (?) }
n.
See Dependent, Dependence, Dependency.

&hand_; The forms dependant, dependance, dependancy are from the French; the forms dependent, etc., are from the Latin. Some authorities give preference to the form dependant when the word is a noun, thus distinguishing it from the adjective, usually written dependent.


word: Dependence
definition:
Dependence

De*pend"ence
(?)
n.
[LL. dependentia, fr. L. dependens. See Dependent, and cf. Dependance.]
1.
The act or state of depending; state of being dependent; a hanging down or from; suspension from a support.

2.
The state of being influenced and determined by something; subjection (as of an effect to its cause).

The cause of effects, and the dependence of one thing upon another.
Bp. Burnet.

3.
Mutual connection and support; concatenation; systematic inter-relation.

So dark and so intricate of purpose, without any dependence or order.
Sir T. More.

4.
Subjection to the direction or disposal of another; inability to help or provide for one's self; a lack of independence or self-sufficiency.

Syn. -- dependance, dependency.

Reduced to a servile dependence on their mercy.
Burke.

5.
A resting with confidence; reliance; trust.

Affectionate dependence on the Creator is the spiritual life of the soul.
T. Erskine.

6.
That on which one depends or relies; as, he was her sole dependence.

7.
That which depends; anything dependent or suspended; anything attached a subordinate to, or contingent on, something else.

Like a large cluster of black grapes they show
And make a large dependence from the bough.
Dryden.

8.
A matter depending, or in suspense, and still to be determined; ground of controversy or quarrel.
[Obs.]

To go on now with my first dependence.
Beau. & Fl.


word: Dependency
definition:
Dependency

De*pend"en*cy
(?)
n.
pl. Dependencies (_;).
1.
State of being dependent; dependence; state of being subordinate; subordination; concatenation; connection; reliance; trust.

Any long series of action, the parts of which have very much dependency each on the other.
Sir J. Reynolds.

So that they may acknowledge their dependency on the crown of England.
Bacon.

2.
A thing hanging down; a dependence.

3.
That which is attached to something else as its consequence, subordinate, satellite, and the like.

This earth and its dependencies.
T. Burnet.

Modes I call such complex ideas which . . . are considered as dependencies on or affections of substances.
Locke.

4.
A territory remote from the kingdom or state to which it belongs, but subject to its dominion; a colony; as, Great Britain has its dependencies in Asia, Africa, and America.

&hand_; Dependence is more used in the abstract, and dependency in the concrete. The latter is usually restricted in meaning to 3 and 4.


word: Dependent
definition:
Dependent

De*pend"ent
(?)
a.
[L. dependens, -entis, p. pr. dependere. See Depend, and cf. Dependant.]
1.
Hanging down; as, a dependent bough or leaf.

2.
Relying on, or subject to, something else for support; not able to exist, or sustain itself, or to perform anything, without the will, power, or aid of something else; not self-sustaining; subordinate; -- often with on or upon; as, dependent on God; dependent upon friends.  Opposite of independent.
interdependent, mutualist, mutually beneficial
parasitic, parasitical, leechlike, bloodsucking
subordinate
underage
myrmecophilous
symbiotic
Also See: unfree.

England, long dependent and degraded, was again a power of the first rank.
Macaulay.

3.
conditional; contingent or conditioned.  Opposite of unconditional.

Syn. -- qualified.

4.
addicted to drugs.

Syn. -- addicted, dependent, drug-addicted, hooked, strung-out.

Dependent covenant or Dependent contract (Law), one not binding until some connecting stipulation is performed. -- Dependent variable (Math.), a varying quantity whose changes are arbitrary, but are regarded as produced by changes in another variable, which is called the independent variable.


word: Dependent₂
definition:
Dependent

De*pend"ent
n.
1.
One who depends; one who is sustained by another, or who relies on another for financial support or favor; a hanger-on; a retainer; as, a numerous train of dependents.

A host of dependents on the court, suborned to play their part as witnesses.
Hallam.

2.
That which depends; corollary; consequence.

With all its circumstances and dependents.
Prynne.

&hand_; See the Note under Dependant.


word: Deperdit
definition:
Deperdit

De*per"dit
(?)
n.
[LL. deperditum, fr. L. deperditus, p. p. of deperdere; de- + perdere to lose, destroy.]
That which is lost or destroyed.
[R.]
Paley.


word: Deperditely
definition:
Deperditely

De*per"dite*ly
(?)
adv.
Hopelessly; despairingly; in the manner of one ruined; as, deperditely wicked.
[Archaic]


word: Deperdition
definition:
Deperdition

Dep`er*di"tion
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. déperdition.]
Loss; destruction.
[Archaic]
Sir T. Browne.


word: Dephase
definition:
Dephase

De*phase"
(?)
v. t.
(Elec.)
To put out of phase, as two parts of a single alternating current.


word: Dephlegm
definition:
Dephlegm

De*phlegm"
(?)
v. t.
[Pref. de- + phlegm water; cf. F. déphlegmer, déflegmer.]
(O. Chem.)
To rid of phlegm or water; to dephlegmate.
[Obs.]
Boyle.


word: Dephlegmate
definition:
Dephlegmate

De*phleg"mate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Dephlegmated; p. pr. & vb. n. Dephlegmating.]
[See Dephlegm.]
(Chem.)
To deprive of superabundant water, as by evaporation or distillation; to clear of aqueous matter; to rectify; -- used of spirits and acids.


word: Dephlegmation
definition:
Dephlegmation

De`phleg*ma"tion
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. déflegmation.]
(Chem.)
The operation of separating water from spirits and acids, by evaporation or repeated distillation; -- called also concentration, especially when acids are the subject of it.
[Obs.]


word: Dephlegmator
definition:
Dephlegmator

De*phleg"ma*tor
(?)
n.
An instrument or apparatus in which water is separated by evaporation or distillation; the part of a distilling apparatus in which the separation of the vapors is effected.


word: Dephlogisticcate
definition:
Dephlogisticcate

De`phlo*gis"tic*cate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Dephlogisticated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Dephlogisticating.]
[Pref. de- + phlosticate: cf. F. déphlogistiguer.]
(O. Chem.)
To deprive of phlogiston, or the supposed principle of inflammability.
Priestley.

Dephlogisticated air, oxygen gas; -- so called by Dr. Priestly and others of his time.


word: Depict
definition:
Depict

De*pict"
(de̝*pĭkt")
p. p.
[L. depictus, p. p. of depingere to depict; de- + pingere to paint. See Paint, and cf. Depaint, p. p.]
Depicted.
Lydgate.


word: Depict₂
definition:
Depict

De*pict"
(de̝*pĭkt")
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Depicted; p. pr. & vb. n. Depicting.]
1.
To form a colored likeness of; to represent by a picture; to paint; to portray.

His arms are fairly depicted in his chamber.
Fuller.

2.
To represent in words; to describe vividly.

Cæsar's gout was then depicted in energetic language.
Motley.


word: depicted
definition:
depicted

depicted
adj.
represented graphically by sketch or design or lines.

Syn. -- pictured, portrayed.


word: Depicture
definition:
Depicture

De*pic"ture
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Depictured (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Depicturing.]
To make a picture of; to paint; to picture; to depict.

Several persons were depictured in caricature.
Fielding.


word: Depilate
definition:
Depilate

Dep"i*late
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Depilated; p. pr. & vb. n. Depilating.]
[L. depilatus, p. p. of depilare to depilate; de- + pilare to put forth hairs, pilus hair.]
To strip of hair; to husk.
Venner.


word: Depilation
definition:
Depilation

Dep`i*la"tion
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. dépilation.]
Act of pulling out or removing the hair; unhairing.
Dryden.


word: Depilatory
definition:
Depilatory

De*pil"a*to*ry
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. dépilatoire.]
Having the quality or power of removing hair.
n. An application used to take off hair.


word: Deplanate
definition:
Deplanate

De*pla"nate
(?)
a.
[L. deplanetus, p. p. of deplanare to make level. See Plane, v. t.]
(Bot.)
Flattened; made level or even.


word: Deplant
definition:
Deplant

De*plant"
(?)
v. t.
[Pref. de- + plan: cf. F. déplanter, L. deplantare to take off a twig. See Plant, v. t.]
To take up (plants); to transplant.
[R.]


word: Deplete
definition:
Deplete

De*plete"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Depleted; p. pr. & vb. n. Depleting.]
[From L. deplere to empty out; de- + plere to fill. Forined like replete, complete. See Fill, Full, a.]
1.
(Med.)
To empty or unload, as the vessels of human system, by bloodletting or by medicine.
Copland.

2.
To reduce by destroying or consuming the vital powers of; to exhaust, as a country of its strength or resources, a treasury of money, etc.
Saturday Review.


word: depleted
definition:
depleted

depleted
adj.
1.
no longer sufficient; as, our funds are depleted.

Syn. -- low.

2.
having resources completely depleted.

Syn. -- drained.


word: Depletion
definition:
Depletion

De*ple"tion
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. déplétion.]
1.
The act of depleting or emptying.

2.
(Med.)
the act or process of diminishing the quantity of fluid in the vessels by bloodletting or otherwise; also excessive evacuation, as in severe diarrhea.


word: Depletive
definition:
Depletive

De*ple"tive
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. déplétif.]
Able or fitted to deplete.
n. A substance used to deplete.


word: Deplication
definition:
Deplication

Dep`li*ca"tion
(?)
n.
[LL. deplicare to unfold; L. de- + plicare to fold.]
An unfolding, untwisting, or unplaiting.
[Obs.]
W. Montagu.


word: Deplorable
definition:
Deplorable

De*plor"a*ble
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. déplorable.]
Worthy of being deplored or lamented; lamentable; causing grief; hence, sad; calamitous; grievous; wretched; as, life's evils are deplorable.

Individual sufferers are in a much more deplorable conditious than any others.
Burke.


word: Deplorate
definition:
Deplorate

De*plo"rate
(?)
a.
[L. deploratus, p. p. of deplorare. See Deplore.]
Deplorable.
[Obs.]

A more deplorate estate.
Baker.


word: Deploration
definition:
Deploration

Dep`lo*ra"tion
(?)
n.
[L. deploratio: cf. F. déploration.]
The act of deploring or lamenting; lamentation.
Speed.


word: Deplore
definition:
Deplore

De*plore"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deplored (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deploring.]
[L. deplorare; de- + plorare to cry out, wail, lament; prob. akin to pluere to rain, and to E. flow: cf. F. déplorer.  Cf. Flow.]
1.
To feel or to express deep and poignant grief for; to bewail; to lament; to mourn; to sorrow over.

To find her, or forever to deplore
Her loss.
Milton.

As some sad turtle his lost love deplores.
Pope.

2.
To complain of.
[Obs.]
Shak.

3.
To regard as hopeless; to give up.
[Obs.]
Bacon.


word: Deploy
definition:
Deploy

De*ploy"
(?)
v. t. & i.
[imp. & p. p. Deployed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deploying.]
[F. déployer; pref. dé_; = dés (L. dis) + ployer, equiv. to plier to fold, fr. L. plicare. See Ply, and cf. Display.]
(Mil.)
To open out; to unfold; to spread out (a body of troops) in such a way that they shall display a wider front and less depth; -- the reverse of ploy; as, to deploy a column of troops into line of battle.


word: deploy
definition:
deploy

de*ploy"
(?)
v. t.
To place (people or other resources) into a position so as to be ready to for action or use.


word: Deployment
definition:
Deployment

Deploy

{ De*ploy" (?), De*ploy"ment (?), }
n.
(Mil.)
The act of deploying; a spreading out of a body of men in order to extend their front.
Wilhelm.

Deployments . . . which cause the soldier to turn his back to the enemy are not suited to war.
H. L. Scott.


word: deployment
definition:
deployment

deployment
n.
the arrangement or distribution (of resources such as people or equipment), in preparation for battle or work.


word: Deplumate
definition:
Deplumate

De*plu"mate
(?)
a.
[LL. diplumatus, p. p. of deplumare. See Deplume.]
(Zool.)
Destitute or deprived of features; deplumed.


word: Deplumation
definition:
Deplumation

Dep`lu*ma"tion
(?)
n.
[See Deplumate.]
1.
The stripping or falling off of plumes or feathers.
Bp. Stillingfleet

2.
(Med.)
A disease of the eyelids, attended with loss of the eyelashes.
Thomas.


word: Deplume
definition:
Deplume

De*plume"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deplumed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Depluming.]
[LL. deplumare; L. de- + plumare to cover with feathers, pluma feather: cf. deplumis featherless, and F. déplumer.]
1.
To strip or pluck off the feather of; to deprive of of plumage.

On the depluming of the pope every bird had his own feather.
Fuller.

2.
To lay bare; to expose.

The exposure and depluming of the leading humbugs of the age.
De Quincey.


word: Depolarization
definition:
Depolarization

De*po`lar*i*za"tion
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. dépolarisation.]
The act of depriving of polarity, or the result of such action; reduction to an unpolarized condition.

Depolarization of light (Opt.), a change in the plane of polarization of rays, especially by a crystalline medium, such that the light which had been extinguished by the analyzer reappears as if the polarization had been anulled. The word is inappropriate, as the ray does not return to the unpolarized condition.


word: Depolarize
definition:
Depolarize

De*po"lar*ize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Depolarized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Depolarizing.]
[Pref. de- + polarize: cf. F. dépolarizer.]
1.
(Opt.)
To deprive of polarity; to reduce to an unpolarized condition.

&hand_; This word has been inaccurately applied in optics to describe the effect of a polarizing medium, as a crystalline plate, in causing the reappearance of a ray, in consequence of a change in its plane of polarization, which previously to the change was intercepted by the analyzer.

2.
(Elec.)
To free from polarization, as the negative plate of the voltaic battery.


word: Depolarizer
definition:
Depolarizer

De*po"lar*i`zer
(?)
n.
(Elec.)
A substance used to prevent polarization, as upon the negative plate of a voltaic battery.


word: Depolishing
definition:
Depolishing

De*pol"ish*ing
(de̝*p&obreve_;l"ĭsh*ĭng)
n.
(Ceramics)
The process of removing the vitreous glaze from porcelain, leaving the dull luster of the surface of ivory porcelain.
Knight.


word: Depone
definition:
Depone

De*pone"
(de̝*p&omacrn")
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deponed (-p&omacrnd"); p. pr. & vb. n. Deponing.]
[L. deponere, depositum, to put down, in LL., to assert under oath; de- + ponere to put, place. See Position, and cf. Deposit.]
1.
To lay, as a stake; to wager.
[Obs.]
Hudibras.

2.
To lay down.
[R.]
Southey.

3.
To assert under oath; to depose.
[A Scotticism]

Sprot deponeth that he entered himself thereafter in conference.
State Trials(1606).


word: Depone₂
definition:
Depone

De*pone"
v. i.
To testify under oath; to depose; to bear witness.
[A Scotticism]

The fairy Glorians, whose credibility on this point can not be called in question, depones to the confinement of Merlin in a tree.
Dunlop.


word: Deponent
definition:
Deponent

De*po"nent
(?)
n.
[L. deponenes, -entis, laying down. See Depone, v. t.]
1.
(Law)
One who deposes or testifies under oath; one who gives evidence; usually, one who testifies in writing.

2.
(Gr. & Lat.  Gram.)
A deponent verb.


word: Deponent₂
definition:
Deponent

De*po"nent
a.
[L. deponens, -entis, laying down (its proper passive meaning), p. pr. of deponere: cf. F. déponent. See Depone.]
(Gram.)
Having a passive form with an active meaning, as certain latin and Greek verbs.


word: Depopulate
definition:
Depopulate

De*pop"u*late
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Depopulated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Depopulating (?).]
[L. depopulatus, p. p. of depopulari to ravage; de- + populari to ravage, fr. populus people: cf. OF. depopuler, F. dépeupler. See People.]
To deprive of inhabitants, whether by death or by expulsion; to reduce greatly the populousness of; to dispeople; to unpeople.

Where is this viper,
That would depopulate the city?
Shak.

&hand_; It is not synonymous with laying waste or destroying, being limited to the loss of inhabitants; as, an army or a famine may depopulate a country. It rarely expresses an entire loss of inhabitants, but often a great diminution of their numbers; as, the deluge depopulated the earth.


word: Depopulate₂
definition:
Depopulate

De*pop"u*late
v. i.
To become dispeopled.
[R.]

Whether the country be depopulating or not.
Goldsmith.


word: Depopulation
definition:
Depopulation

De*pop`u*la"tion
(?)
n.
[L. depopulatio pillaging: cf. F. dépopulation depopulation.]
The act of depopulating, or condition of being depopulated; destruction or explusion of inhabitants.

The desolation and depopulation [of St.Quentin] were now complete.
Motley.


word: Deport
definition:
Deport

De*port"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deported; p. pr. & vb. n. Deporting.]
[F. déporter to transport for life, OF., to divert, amuse, from L. deportare to carry away; de- + portare to carry. See Port demeanor.]
1.
To transport; to carry away; to exile; to send into banishment; to expel (from a region or country).

He told us he had been deported to Spain.
Walsh.

2.
To carry or demean; to conduct; to behave; -- followed by the reflexive pronoun.

Let an ambassador deport himself in the most graceful manner befor a prince.
Pope.


word: Deportation
definition:
Deportation

De`por*ta"tion
(?)
n.
[L. depotatio: cf. F. déportation.]
The act of deporting or exiling, or the state of being deported; banishment; transportation.

In their deportations, they had often the favor of their conquerors.
Atterbury.


word: deportee
definition:
deportee

deportee
n.
a person who was expelled from home or country by governmental authority; one who has been deported.

Syn. -- exile.


word: Deportment
definition:
Deportment

De*port"ment
(?)
n.
[F. déportement misconduct, OF., demeanor. See Deport.]
Manner of deporting or demeaning one's self; manner of acting; conduct; carriage; especially, manner of acting with respect to the courtesies and duties of life; behavior; demeanor; bearing.

The gravity of his deportment carried him safe through many difficulties.
Swift.


word: Depose
definition:
Depose

De*pose"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deposed (?); p. pr.  & vb. n. Deposing.]
[FF. déposer, in the sense of L. deponere to put down; but from pref. dé- (L. de) + poser to place. See Pose, Pause.]
1.
To lay down; to divest one's self of; to lay aside.
[Obs.]

Thus when the state one Edward did depose,
A greater Edward in his room arose.
Dryden.

2.
To let fall; to deposit.
[Obs.]

Additional mud deposed upon it.
Woodward.

3.
To remove from a throne or other high station; to dethrone; to divest or deprive of office.

A tyrant over his subjects, and therefore worthy to be deposed.
Prynne.

4.
To testify under oath; to bear testimony to; -- now usually said of bearing testimony which is officially written down for future use.
Abbott.

To depose the yearly rent or valuation of lands.
Bacon.

5.
To put under oath.
[Obs.]

Depose him in the justice of his cause.
Shak.


word: Depose₂
definition:
Depose

De*pose"
v. i.
To bear witness; to testify under oath; to make deposition.

Then, seeing't was he that made you to despose,
Your oath, my lord, is vain and frivolous.
Shak.


word: Deposer
definition:
Deposer

De*pos"er
(?)
n.
1.
One who deposes or degrades from office.

2.
One who testifies or deposes; a deponent.


word: Deposit
definition:
Deposit

De*pos"it
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deposited; p. pr. & vb. n. Depositing.]
[L. depositus, p. p. of deponere. See Depone, and cf. Deposit, n.]
1.
To lay down; to place; to put; to let fall or throw down (as sediment); as, a crocodile deposits her eggs in the sand; the waters deposited a rich alluvium.

The fear is deposited in conscience.
Jer. Taylor.

2.
To lay up or away for safe keeping; to put up; to store; as, to deposit goods in a warehouse.

3.
To lodge in some one's hands for safe keeping; to commit to the custody of another; to intrust; esp., to place in a bank, as a sum of money subject to order.

4.
To lay aside; to rid one's self of.
[Obs.]

If what is written prove useful to you, to the depositing that which I can not but deem an error.
Hammond.

&hand_; Both this verb and the noun following were formerly written deposite.


word: Deposit₂
definition:
Deposit

De*pos"it
n.
[L. depositum, fr. depositus, p. p. of deponere: cf. F. dépôt, OF. depost. See Deposit, v. t., and cf. Depot.]
1.
That which is deposited, or laid or thrown down; as, a deposit in a flue; especially, matter precipitated from a solution (as the siliceous deposits of hot springs), or that which is mechanically deposited (as the mud, gravel, etc., deposits of a river).

The deposit already formed affording to the succeeding portion of the charged fluid a basis.
Kirwan.

2.
(Mining)
A natural occurrence of a useful mineral under the conditions to invite exploitation.
Raymond.

3.
That which is placed anywhere, or in any one's hands, for safe keeping; something intrusted to the care of another; esp., money lodged with a bank or banker, subject to order; anything given as pledge or security.

4.
(Law)
(a)
A bailment of money or goods to be kept gratuitously for the bailor.
(b)
Money lodged with a party as earnest or security for the performance of a duty assumed by the person depositing.

5.
A place of deposit; a depository.
[R.]

Bank of deposit. See under Bank. -- In deposit, or On deposit, in trust or safe keeping as a deposit; as, coins were received on deposit.


word: Depositary
definition:
Depositary

De*pos"i*ta*ry
(?)
n.
pl. Depositaries (#).
[L. depositarius, fr. deponere. See Deposit.]
1.
One with whom anything is lodged in the trust; one who receives a deposit; -- the correlative of depositor.

I . . . made you my guardians, my depositaries.
Shak.

The depositaries of power, who are mere delegates of the people.
J. S. Mill.

2.
A storehouse; a depository.
Bp. Hurd.

3.
(Law)
One to whom goods are bailed, to be kept for the bailor without a recompense.
Kent.


word: Deposition
definition:
Deposition

Dep`o*si"tion
(?)
n.
[L. depositio, fr. deponere: cf. F. déposition. See Deposit.]
1.
The act of depositing or deposing; the act of laying down or thrown down; precipitation.

The deposition of rough sand and rolled pebbles.
H. Miller.

2.
The act of bringing before the mind; presentation.

The influence of princes upon the dispositions of their courts needs not the deposition of their examples, since it hath the authority of a known principle.
W. Montagu.

3.
The act of setting aside a sovereign or a public officer; deprivation of authority and dignity; displacement; removal.

&hand_; A deposition differs from an abdication, an abdication being voluntary, and a deposition compulsory.

4.
That which is deposited; matter laid or thrown down; sediment; alluvial matter; as, banks are sometimes depositions of alluvial matter.

5.
An opinion, example, or statement, laid down or asserted; a declaration.

6.
(Law)
The act of laying down one's testimony in writing; also, testimony laid or taken down in writing, under oath or affirmation, before some competent officer, and in reply to interrogatories and cross-interrogatories.


word: Depositor
definition:
Depositor

De*pos"i*tor
(de̝*p&obreve_;z"ĭ*tẽr)
n.
[L., fr. deponere. See Depone.]
One who makes a deposit, especially of money in a bank; -- the correlative of depository.


word: Depository
definition:
Depository

De*pos"i*to*ry
(-to̝*r&ybreve_;)
n.
pl. Depositories (-rĭz).
1.
A place where anything is deposited for sale or keeping; as, warehouse is a depository for goods; a clerk's office is a depository for records.

2.
One with whom something is deposited; a depositary.

I am the sole depository of my own secret, and it shall perish with me.
Junius.


word: Depositure
definition:
Depositure

De*pos"i*ture
(-t&uuptack_;r; 135)
n.
The act of depositing; deposition.
[Obs.]
Sir T. Browne.


word: Depot
definition:
Depot

De"pot
(dē"po̝; French da̝*p&omacr"; 277)
n.
[F. dépôt, OF. depost, fr. L. depositum a deposit. See Deposit, n.]
1.
A place of deposit for the storing of goods; a warehouse; a storehouse.

The islands of Guernsey and Jersey are at present the great depots of this kingdom.
Brit. Critic (1794).

2.
(Mil.)
(a)
A military station where stores and provisions are kept, or where recruits are assembled and drilled.
(b)
(Eng. & France)
The headquarters of a regiment, where all supplies are received and distributed, recruits are assembled and instructed, infirm or disabled soldiers are taken care of, and all the wants of the regiment are provided for.

3.
A railway station; a building for the accommodation and protection of railway passengers or freight.
[U. S.]


word: Depravation
definition:
Depravation

Dep`ra*va"tion
(dĕp`rȧ*vā"shŭn)
n.
[L. depravitio, from depravare: cf. F. dépravation. See Deprave.]
1.
Detraction; depreciation.
[Obs.]

To stubborn critics, apt, without a theme,
For depravation.
Shak.

2.
The act of depraving, or making anything bad; the act of corrupting.

3.
The state of being depraved or degenerated; degeneracy; depravity.

The depravation of his moral character destroyed his judgment.
Sir G. C. Lewis.

4.
(Med.)
Change for the worse; deterioration; morbid perversion.


word: Deprave
definition:
Deprave

De*prave"
(de̝*prāv")
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Depraved (de̝*prāvd"); p. pr. & vb. n. Depraving.]
[L. depravare, depravatum; de- + pravus crooked, distorted, perverse, wicked.]
1.
To speak ill of; to depreciate; to malign; to revile.
[Obs.]

And thou knowest, conscience, I came not to chide
Nor deprave thy person with a proud heart.
Piers Plowman.

2.
To make bad or worse; to vitiate; to corrupt.

Whose pride depraves each other better part.
Spenser.


word: Depravity
definition:
Depravity

De*prav"i*ty
(?)
n.
[From Deprave: cf. L. pravitas crookedness, perverseness.]
The state of being depraved or corrupted; a vitiated state of moral character; general badness of character; wickedness of mind or heart; absence of religious feeling and principle.

Total depravity. See Original sin, and Calvinism.


word: deprecable
definition:
deprecable

dep"re*ca*ble
(?)
a.
[L. deprecabilis exorable.]
That may or should be deprecated.
Paley.


word: deprecate
definition:
deprecate

dep"re*cate
(dĕp"re̝*kāt)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deprecated (-kā`tĕd); p. pr. & vb. n. Deprecating (-kā`tĭng).]
[L. deprecatus, p. p. of deprecari to avert by prayer, to deprecate; de- + precari to pray. See Pray.]
To pray against, as an evil; to seek to avert by prayer; to seek deliverance from; to express deep regret for; to desire the removal of.
[archaic]

2.
To protest against; to advance reasons against.

His purpose was deprecated by all round him, and he was with difficulty induced to adandon it.
Sir W. Scott.

3.
To disapprove of strongly; to express a low opinion of.


word: Deprecation
definition:
Deprecation

Dep`re*ca"tion
(dĕp`re̝*kā"shŭn)
n.
[L. deprecatio; cf. F. déprécation.]
1.
The act of deprecating; a praying against evil; prayer that an evil may be removed or prevented.
[archaic]

Humble deprecation.
Milton.

2.
Entreaty for pardon; petitioning.

3.
An imprecation or curse.
[Obs.]
Gilpin.

4.
A strong expression of disapprobation; an expression of a low opinion.


word: Deprecative
definition:
Deprecative

Dep"re*ca*tive
(dĕp"re̝*ka̝*tĭv)
a.
[L. deprecativus: cf. F. déprécatif.]
Serving to deprecate; deprecatory.


word: deprecatory
definition:
deprecatory

dep"re*ca*to*ry
(dĕp"re̝*kȧ*to̝*r&ybreve_;)
a.
[L. deprecatorius.]
1.
Tending to remove or avert evil by prayer; apologetic.

Humble and deprecatory letters.
Bacon.

2.
Serving to deprecate; expressing a low opinion of.

Syn. -- belittling, disparaging, depreciative, deprecatory, depreciatory, derogatory, detractive, detracting, slighting, pejorative, denigratory.


word: Depreciate
definition:
Depreciate

De*pre"ci*ate
(de̝*prē"shĭ*āt)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Depreciated (de̝*prē"shĭ*ā`tĕd); p. pr. & vb. n. Depreciating (de̝*prē"shĭ*ā`tĭng).]
[L. depretiatus, depreciatus, p. p. of depretiare, -ciare, to depreciate; de- + pretiare to prize, fr. pretium price. See Price.]
To lessen in price or estimated value; to lower the worth of; to represent as of little value or claim to esteem; to undervalue.
Addison.

Which . . . some over-severe philosophers may look upon fastidiously, or undervalue and depreciate.
Cudworth.

To prove that the Americans ought not to be free, we are obliged to depreciate the value of freedom itself.
Burke.


word: Depreciate₂
definition:
Depreciate

De*pre"ci*ate
v. i.
To fall in value; to become of less worth; to sink in estimation; as, a paper currency will depreciate, unless it is convertible into specie.


word: Depreciation
definition:
Depreciation

De*pre`ci*a"tion
(de̝*prē`shĭ*ā"shŭn)
n.
[Cf. F. dépréciation.]
1.
The act of lessening, or seeking to lessen, price, value, or reputation.

2.
The falling of value; reduction of worth.
Burke.

3.
the state of being depreciated.


word: Depreciative
definition:
Depreciative

De*pre"ci*a`tive
(de̝*prē"shĭ*ā`tĭv or de̝*prē"shȧ*tĭv)
a.
Tending, or intended, to depreciate; expressing depreciation; undervaluing.
De*pre"ci*a`tive*ly, adv.


word: Depreciatory
definition:
Depreciatory

De*pre"ci*a*to*ry
(de̝*prē"shĭ*ȧ*to̝*r&ybreve_; or de̝*prē"shȧ*to̝*r&ybreve_;)
a.
Tending to depreciate; undervaluing; depreciative.

Syn. -- belittling, depreciative, deprecatory, depreciatory, derogatory, detractive, detracting, slighting, pejorative, denigratory.


word: Depredate
definition:
Depredate

Dep"re*date
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Depredated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Depredating (?).]
[L. depraedatus, p. p. of depraedari to plunder; de- + praedari to plunder, praeda plunder, prey. See Prey.]
To subject to plunder and pillage; to despoil; to lay waste; to prey upon.

It makes the substance of the body . . . less apt to be consumed and depredated by the spirits.
Bacon.


word: Depredate₂
definition:
Depredate

Dep"re*date
v. i.
To take plunder or prey; to commit waste; as, the troops depredated on the country.


word: Depredation
definition:
Depredation

Dep`re*da"tion
(?)
n.
[L. depraedatio: cf. F. déprédation.]
The act of depredating, or the state of being depredated; the act of despoiling or making inroads; as, the sea often makes depredation on the land.


word: Depredator
definition:
Depredator

Dep"re*da`tor
(?)
n.
[L. depraedator.]
One who plunders or pillages; a spoiler; a robber.


word: Depredatory
definition:
Depredatory

Dep"re*da`to*ry
(?)
a.
Tending or designed to depredate; characterized by depredation; plundering; as, a depredatory incursion.


word: Depredicate
definition:
Depredicate

De*pred"i*cate
(?)
v. t.
[Pref. de- (intensive) + predicate.]
To proclaim; to celebrate.
[R.]


word: Deprehend
definition:
Deprehend

Dep`re*hend"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deprehended; p. pr. & vb. n. Deprehending.]
[L. deprehendere, deprehensum; de- + prehendere to lay hold of, seize. See Prehensile.]
1.
To take unawares or by surprise; to seize, as a person commiting an unlawful act; to catch; to apprehend.

The deprehended adulteress.Jer.
Taylor.

2.
To detect; to discover; to find out.

The motion . . . are to be deprehended by experience.
Bacon.


word: Deprehensible
definition:
Deprehensible

Dep`re*hen"si*ble
(?)
a.
That may be caught or discovered; apprehensible.
[Obs.]
Petty.


word: Depress
definition:
Depress

De*press"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Depressed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Depressing.]
[L. depressus, p. p. of deprimere; de- + premere to press. See Press.]
1.
To press down; to cause to sink; to let fall; to lower; as, to depress the muzzle of a gun; to depress the eyes.
depressed
Tennyson.

2.
To bring down or humble; to abase, as pride.

3.
To cast a gloom upon; to sadden; as, his spirits were depressed.

4.
To lessen the activity of; to make dull; embarrass, as trade, commerce, etc.

5.
To lessen in price; to cause to decline in value; to cheapen; to depreciate.

6.
(Math.)
To reduce (an equation) in a lower degree.

To depress the pole (Naut.), to cause the sidereal pole to appear lower or nearer the horizon, as by sailing toward the equator.


word: Depress₂
definition:
Depress

De*press"
a.
[L. depressus, p. p.]
Having the middle lower than the border; concave.
[Obs.]

If the seal be depress or hollow.
Hammond.


word: Depressed
definition:
Depressed

De*pressed"
(?)
a.
1.
Pressed or forced down; lowed; sunk; dejected; dispirited; sad; humbled.

2.
(Bot.)
(a)
Concave on the upper side; -- said of a leaf whose disk is lower than the border.
(b)
Lying flat; -- said of a stem or leaf which lies close to the ground.

3.
(Zool.)
Having the vertical diameter shorter than the horizontal or transverse; -- said of the bodies of animals, or of parts of the bodies.


word: Depression
definition:
Depression

De*pres"sion
(?)
n.
[L. depressio: cf. F. dépression.]
1.
The act of depressing.

2.
The state of being depressed; a sinking.

3.
A falling in of the surface; a sinking below its true place; a cavity or hollow; as, roughness consists in little protuberances and depressions.

4.
Humiliation; abasement, as of pride.

5.
Dejection; despondency; lowness.

In a great depression of spirit.
Baker.

6.
Diminution, as of trade, etc.; inactivity; dullness.

7.
(Astron.)
The angular distance of a celestial object below the horizon.

8.
(Math.)
The operation of reducing to a lower degree; -- said of equations.

9.
(Surg.)
A method of operating for cataract; couching. See Couch, v. t., 8.

Angle of depression (Geod.), one which a descending line makes with a horizontal plane. -- Depression of the dewpoint (Meteor.), the number of degrees that the dew-point is lower than the actual temperature of the atmosphere. -- Depression of the pole, its apparent sinking, as the spectator goes toward the equator. -- Depression of the visible horizon. (Astron.) Same as Dip of the horizon, under Dip.


word: Depressomotor
definition:
Depressomotor

De*pres`so*mo"tor
(?)
a.
(Med.)
Depressing or diminishing the capacity for movement, as depressomotor nerves, which lower or inhibit muscular activity.
n. Any agent that depresses the activity of the motor centers, as bromides, etc.


word: Depressor
definition:
Depressor

De*press"or
(?)
n.
1.
One who, or that which, presses down; an oppressor.

2.
(Anat.)
A muscle that depresses or tends to draw down a part.

Depressor nerve (Physiol.), a nerve which lowers the activity of an organ; as, the depressor nerve of the heart.


word: Depriment
definition:
Depriment

Dep"ri*ment
(?)
a.
[L. deprimens, p. pr. of deprimere. See Depress.]
Serving to depress.
[R.]
Depriment
Derham.


word: Deprisure
definition:
Deprisure

De*pri"sure
(?)
n.
[F. dépriser to undervalue; pref. dé- (L. dis-) + priser to prize, fr. prix price, fr. L. pretium. See Dispraise.]
Low estimation; disesteem; contempt.
[Obs.]


word: Deprivable
definition:
Deprivable

De*priv"a*ble
(?)
a.
Capable of being, or liable to be, deprived; liable to be deposed.

Kings of Spain . . . deprivable for their tyrannies.
Prynne.


word: Deprivation
definition:
Deprivation

Dep`ri*va"tion
(?)
n.
[LL. deprivatio.]
1.
The act of depriving, dispossessing, or bereaving; the act of deposing or divesting of some dignity.

2.
The state of being deprived; privation; loss; want; bereavement.

3.
(Eccl. Law)
the taking away from a clergyman his benefice, or other spiritual promotion or dignity.

&hand_; Deprivation may be a beneficio or ab officio; the first takes away the living, the last degrades and deposes from the order.


word: Deprive
definition:
Deprive

De*prive"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deprived (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Depriving.]
[LL. deprivare, deprivatium, to divest of office; L. de- + privare to bereave, deprive: cf. OF. depriver. See Private.]
1.
To take away; to put an end; to destroy.
[Obs.]

'Tis honor to deprive dishonored life.
Shak.

2.
To dispossess; to bereave; to divest; to hinder from possessing; to debar; to shut out from; -- with a remoter object, usually preceded by of.

God hath deprived her of wisdom.
Job xxxix. 17.

It was seldom that anger deprived him of power over himself.
Macaulay.

3.
To divest of office; to depose; to dispossess of dignity, especially ecclesiastical.

A minister deprived for inconformity.
Bacon.


word: deprived
definition:
deprived

deprived
adj.
marked by deprivation especially of the necessities of life or healthful environmental or social influences; as, a childhood that was unhappy and deprived, the family living off charity; boys from a deprived environment, wherein the family life revealed a pattern of neglect, moral degradation, and disregard for law.

Syn. -- disadvantaged.


word: Deprostrate
definition:
Deprostrate

De*pros"trate
(?)
a.
Fully prostrate; humble; low; rude.
[Obs.]

How may weak mortal ever hope to file
His unsmooth tongue, and his deprostrate style.
G. Fletcher.


word: Depth
definition:
Depth

Depth
(sĕpth)
n.
[From Deep; akin to D. diepte, Icel. d&ymacr_;pt, d&ymacr_;pð, Goth. diupiþa.]
1.
The quality of being deep; deepness; perpendicular measurement downward from the surface, or horizontal measurement backward from the front; as, the depth of a river; the depth of a body of troops.

2.
Profoundness; extent or degree of intensity; abundance; completeness; as, depth of knowledge, or color.

Mindful of that heavenly love
Which knows no end in depth or height.
Keble.

3.
Lowness; as, depth of sound.

4.
That which is deep; a deep, or the deepest, part or place; the deep; the middle part; as, the depth of night, or of winter.

From you unclouded depth above.
Keble.

The depth closed me round about.
Jonah ii. 5.

5.
(Logic)
The number of simple elements which an abstract conception or notion includes; the comprehension or content.

6.
(Horology)
A pair of toothed wheels which work together.
[R.]

7.
(Aëronautics)
The perpendicular distance from the chord to the farthest point of an arched surface.

8.
(Computers)
the maximum number of times a type of procedure is reiteratively called before the last call is exited; -- of subroutines or procedures which are reentrant; -- used of call stacks.

Depth of a sail (Naut.), the extent of a square sail from the head rope to the foot rope; the length of the after leach of a staysail or boom sail; -- commonly called the drop of a sail.


word: Depthless
definition:
Depthless

Depth"less
a.
1.
Having no depth; shallow.

2.
Of measureless depth; unfathomable.

In clouds of depthless night.
Francis.


word: Depucelate
definition:
Depucelate

De*pu"ce*late
(?)
v. t.
[L. de + LL. pucella virgin, F. pucelle: cf. F. dépuceler.]
To deflour; to deprive of virginity.
[Obs.]
Bailey.


word: Depudicate
definition:
Depudicate

De*pu"di*cate
(?)
v. t.
[L. depudicatus, p. p. of depudicare.]
To deflour; to dishonor.
[Obs.]


word: Depulse
definition:
Depulse

De*pulse"
(?)
v. t.
[L. depulsus, p. p. of depellere to drive out; de- + pellere to drive.]
To drive away.
[Obs.]
Cockeram.


word: Depulsory
definition:
Depulsory

De*pul"so*ry
(?)
a.
[L. depulsorius.]
Driving or thrusting away; averting.
[R.]
Holland.


word: Depurate
definition:
Depurate

Dep"u*rate
(?)
a.
[LL. depuratus, p. p. of depurare to purify; L. de- + purare to purify, purus clean, pure.  Cf. Depure.]
Depurated; cleansed; freed from impurities.
Boyle.


word: Depurate₂
definition:
Depurate

Dep"u*rate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Depurated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Depurating (?).]
To free from impurities, heterogeneous matter, or feculence; to purify; to cleanse.

To depurate the mass of blood.
Boyle.


word: Depuration
definition:
Depuration

Dep`u*ra"tion
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. dépuration.]
The act or process of depurating or freeing from foreign or impure matter, as a liquid or wound.


word: Depurative
definition:
Depurative

Dep"u*ra*tive
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. dépuratif.]
(Med.)
Purifying the blood or the humors; depuratory.
n. A depurative remedy or agent; or a disease which is believed to be depurative.


word: Depuratory
definition:
Depuratory

Dep"u*ra*to*ry
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. dépuratoire.]
Depurating; tending to depurate or cleanse; depurative.


word: Depure
definition:
Depure

De*pure"
(?)
v. t.
[F. dépurer. See Depurate.]
To depurate; to purify.
[Obs.]

He shall first be depured and cleansed before that he shall be laid up for pure gold in the treasures of God.
Sir T. More.


word: Depurgatory
definition:
Depurgatory

De*pur"ga*to*ry
(?)
a.
Serving to purge; tending to cleanse or purify.
[Obs.]
Cotgrave.


word: Deputation
definition:
Deputation

Dep`u*ta"tion
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. députation. See Depute.]
1.
The act of deputing, or of appointing or commissioning a deputy or representative; office of a deputy or delegate; vicegerency.

The authority of conscience stands founded upon its vicegerency and deputation under God.
South.

2.
The person or persons deputed or commissioned by another person, party, or public body to act in his or its behalf; delegation; as, the general sent a deputation to the enemy to propose a truce.

By deputation, or In deputation, by delegated authority; as substitute; through the medium of a deputy. [Obs.]

Say to great Cæsar this: In deputation
I kiss his conquering hand.
Shak.


word: Depute
definition:
Depute

De*pute"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deputed; p. pr. & vb. n. Deputing.]
[F. députer, fr. L. deputare to esteem, consider, in LL., to destine, allot; de- + putare to clean, prune, clear up, set in order, reckon, think. See Pure.]
1.
To appoint as deputy or agent; to commission to act in one's place; to delegate.

There is no man deputed of the king to hear thee.
2. Sam. xv. 3.

Some persons, deputed by a meeting.
Macaulay.

2.
To appoint; to assign; to choose.
[R.]

The most conspicuous places in cities are usually deputed for the erection of statues.
Barrow.


word: deputize
definition:
deputize

dep"u*tize
(dĕp"&uuptack_;*tīz)
v. t.
To appoint as one's deputy; to empower to act in one's stead; to appoint as one's substitute; to depute.


word: deputy
definition:
deputy

dep"u*ty
(dĕp"&uuptack_;*t&ybreve_;)
n.
pl. Deputies (dĕp"&uuptack_;*tĭz).
[F. député, fr. LL. deputatus. See Depute.]
1.
One appointed as the substitute of another, and empowered to act for him, in his name or his behalf; a substitute in office; a lieutenant; a representative; a delegate; a vicegerent; as, the deputy of a prince, of a sheriff, of a township, etc.

There was then [in the days of Jehoshaphat] no king in Edom; a deputy was king.
1 Kings xxii. 47.

God's substitute,
His deputy anointed in His sight.
Shak.

&hand_; Deputy is used in combination with the names of various executive officers, to denote an assistant empowered to act in their name; as, deputy collector, deputy marshal, deputy sheriff.

2.
A member of the Chamber of Deputies.
[France]

Chamber of Deputies, one of the two branches of the French legislative assembly; -- formerly called Corps Législatif. Its members, called deputies, are elected by the people voting in districts.


word: Dequantitate
definition:
Dequantitate

De*quan"ti*tate
(?)
v. t.
[L. de- + quantitas, -atis. See Quantity.]
To diminish the quantity of; to disquantity.
[Obs.]
Sir T. Browne.


word: Deracinate
definition:
Deracinate

De*rac"i*nate
(de̝*răs"ĭ*nāt)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deracinated (de̝*răs"ĭ*nā`tĕd); p. pr. & vb. n. Deracinating (de̝*răs"ĭ*nā`tĭng).]
[F. déraciner; pref. dé- (L. dis) + racine root, fr. an assumed LL. radicina, fr. L. radix, radicis, root.]
To pluck up by the roots; to extirpate.
[R.]

While that the colter rusts
That should deracinate such savagery.
Shak.


word: Derain
definition:
Derain

Deraign

{ De*raign", De*rain"  }
(?)
v. t.
[See Darraign.]
(Old Law)
To prove or to refute by proof; to clear (one's self).
[Obs.]


word: Derainment
definition:
Derainment

Deraignment

{ De*raign"ment, De*rain"ment  }
(?)
n.
[See Darraign.]
1.
The act of deraigning.
[Obs.]

2.
The renunciation of religious or monastic vows.
[Obs.]
Blount.


word: Derail
definition:
Derail

De*rail"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Derailed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Derailing.]
To cause to run off from the rails of a railroad, as a locomotive.
Lardner.


word: Derailment
definition:
Derailment

De*rail"ment
(?)
n.
The act of going off, or the state of being off, the rails of a railroad.


word: Derange
definition:
Derange

De*range"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Deranged (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deranging.]
[F. déranger; pref. dé- = dés- (L. dis) + ranger to range. See Range, and cf. Disarrange, Disrank.]
1.
To put out of place, order, or rank; to disturb the proper arrangement or order of; to throw into disorder, confusion, or embarrassment; to disorder; to disarrange; as, to derange the plans of a commander, or the affairs of a nation.

2.
To disturb in action or function, as a part or organ, or the whole of a machine or organism.

A sudden fall deranges some of our internal parts.
Blair.

3.
To disturb in the orderly or normal action of the intellect; to render insane.


word: Deranged
definition:
Deranged

De*ranged"
(?)
a.
Disordered; especially, disordered in mind; crazy; insane.

The story of a poor deranged parish lad.
Lamb.


word: Derangement
definition:
Derangement

De*range"ment
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. dérangement.]
The act of deranging or putting out of order, or the state of being deranged; disarrangement; disorder; confusion; especially, mental disorder; insanity.


word: Deray
definition:
Deray

De*ray"
(?)
n.
[OF. derroi, desroi, desrei; pref. des- (L. dis-) + roi, rei, rai, order. See Array.]
Disorder; merriment.
[Obs.]


word: Derby
definition:
Derby

Der"by
(?; usually ? in Eng.; 85)
n.
1.
A race for three-old horses, run annually at Epsom (near London), for the Derby stakes. It was instituted by the 12th Earl of Derby, in 1780.

Derby Day, the day of the annual race for the Derby stakes, -- Wednesday of the week before Whitsuntide.

2.
A stiff felt hat with a dome-shaped crown.


word: Derbyshire spar
definition:
Derbyshire spar

Der"by*shire spar"
(?)
(Min.)
A massive variety of fluor spar, found in Derbyshire, England, and wrought into vases and other ornamental work.


word: Derdoing
definition:
Derdoing

Der*do"ing
(?)
a.
[See Dere, v. t.]
Doing daring or chivalrous deeds.
[Obs.]
derdoing
Spenser.


word: Derecho
definition:
Derecho

De*re"cho
(?)
n.
[Sp. derecho straight.]
A straight wind without apparent cyclonic tendency, usually accompanied with rain and often destructive, common in the prairie regions of the United States.


word: Derelict
definition:
Derelict

Der"e*lict
(?)
a.
[L. derelictus, p. p. of derelinquere to forsake wholly, to abandon; de- + relinquere to leave. See Relinquish.]
1.
Given up or forsaken by the natural owner or guardian; left and abandoned; as, derelict lands.

The affections which these exposed or derelict children bear to their mothers, have no grounds of nature or assiduity but civility and opinion.
Jer. Taylor.

2.
Lost; adrift; hence, wanting; careless; neglectful; unfaithful.

They easily prevailed, so as to seize upon the vacant, unoccupied, and derelict minds of his [Chatham's] friends; and instantly they turned the vessel wholly out of the course of his policy.
Burke.

A government which is either unable or unwilling to redress such wrongs is derelict to its highest duties.
J. Buchanan.


word: Derelict₂
definition:
Derelict

Der"e*lict
n.
(Law)
(a)
A thing voluntary abandoned or willfully cast away by its proper owner, especially a ship abandoned at sea.
(b)
A tract of land left dry by the sea, and fit for cultivation or use.


word: Dereliction
definition:
Dereliction

Der`e*lic"tion
(?)
n.
[L. derelictio.]
1.
The act of leaving with an intention not to reclaim or resume; an utter forsaking abandonment.

Cession or dereliction, actual or tacit, of other powers.
Burke.

2.
A neglect or omission as if by willful abandonment.

A total dereliction of military duties.
Sir W. Scott.

3.
The state of being left or abandoned.

4.
(Law)
A retiring of the sea, occasioning a change of high-water mark, whereby land is gained.


word: Dereligionize
definition:
Dereligionize

De`re*li"gion*ize
(?)
v. t.
To make irreligious; to turn from religion.
[R.]

He would dereligionize men beyond all others.
De Quincey.


word: Dereplication
definition:
Dereplication

De`rep*li*ca"tion
(?)
n.
(Biochem.)
the process of testing samples of mixtures which are active in a screening process, so as to recognize and eliminate from consideration those active substances already studied; -- a stage subsequent to the preliminary screening in the process of discovery of new pharmacologically active substances in mixtures of natural products; -- also called counterscreening.  See screening.
In the process of pharmaceutical screening (testing a large number of substances to find those having desirable pharmacological activity), the testing of samples of substances extracted from living organisms (plants, microorganisms, etc.) often detects substances already detected in prior screening.  Such “known” or “replicate” activities must be recognized at an early stage to avoid duplicating previous efforts at purification and structural identification.  The process of testing an sample which is active in a primary screen, to determine if the activity is due to a previously known substance, is called dereplication or counterscreening.


word: Deride
definition:
Deride

De*ride"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Derided; p. pr. & vb. n. Deriding.]
[L. deridere, derisum; de- + rid_;re to laugh. See Ridicule.]
To laugh at with contempt; to laugh to scorn; to turn to ridicule or make sport of; to mock; to scoff at.

And the Pharisees, also, . . . derided him.
Luke xvi. 14.

Sport that wrinkled Care derides.
And Laughter holding both his sides.
Milton.


word: De rigueur
definition:
De rigueur

De ri`gueur"
(?)
[F. See 2d Rigor.]
According to strictness (of etiquette, rule, or the like); obligatory; strictly required.


word: Derision
definition:
Derision

De*ri"sion
(?)
n.
[L. derisio: cf. F. dérision. See Deride.]
1.
The act of deriding, or the state of being derided; mockery; scornful or contemptuous treatment which holds one up to ridicule.

He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh; the Lord shall have them in derision.
Ps. ii. 4.

Satan beheld their plight,
And to his mates thus in derision called.
Milton.

2.
An object of derision or scorn; a laughing-stock.

I was a derision to all my people.
Lam. iii. 14.


word: Derisive
definition:
Derisive

De*ri"sive
(?)
a.
Expressing, serving for, or characterized by, derision.
Derisive
Pope.
De*ri"sive*ly, adv. -- De*ri"sive*ness, n.


word: Derivable
definition:
Derivable

De*riv"a*ble
(?)
a.
[From Derive.]
That can be derived; obtainable by transmission; capable of being known by inference, as from premises or data; capable of being traced, as from a radical; as, income is derivable from various sources.

All honor derivable upon me.
South.

The exquisite pleasure derivable from the true and beautiful relations of domestic life.
H. G. Bell.

The argument derivable from the doxologies.
J. H. Newman.


word: Derivate
definition:
Derivate

Der"i*vate
(?)
a.
[L. derivatus, p. p. of derivare. See Derive.]
Derived; derivative.
[R.]
H. Taylor.
n. A thing derived; a derivative.
[R.]


word: Derivation
definition:
Derivation

Der`i*va"tion
(?)
n.
[L. derivatio: cf. F. dérivation. See Derive.]
1.
A leading or drawing off of water from a stream or source.
[Obs.]
T. Burnet.

2.
The act of receiving anything from a source; the act of procuring an effect from a cause, means, or condition, as profits from capital, conclusions or opinions from evidence.

As touching traditional communication, . . . I do not doubt but many of those truths have had the help of that derivation.
Sir M. Hale.

3.
The act of tracing origin or descent, as in grammar or genealogy; as, the derivation of a word from an Aryan root.

4.
The state or method of being derived; the relation of origin when established or asserted.

5.
That from which a thing is derived.

6.
That which is derived; a derivative; a deduction.

From the Euphrates into an artificial derivation of that river.
Gibbon.

7.
(Math.)
The operation of deducing one function from another according to some fixed law, called the law of derivation, as the operation of differentiation or of integration.

8.
(Med.)
A drawing of humors or fluids from one part of the body to another, to relieve or lessen a morbid process.

9.
The formation of a word from its more original or radical elements; also, a statement of the origin and history of a word.


word: Derivative
definition:
Derivative

De*riv"a*tive
(?)
a.
[L. derivativus: cf. F. dérivatif.]
Obtained by derivation; derived; not radical, original, or fundamental; originating, deduced, or formed from something else; secondary; as, a derivative conveyance; a derivative word.

2.
Hence, unoriginal (said of art or other intellectual products.

Derivative circulation, a modification of the circulation found in some parts of the body, in which the arteries empty directly into the veins without the interposition of capillaries. Flint.


word: Derivative₂
definition:
Derivative

De*riv"a*tive
n.
1.
That which is derived; anything obtained or deduced from another.

2.
(Gram.)
A word formed from another word, by a prefix or suffix, an internal modification, or some other change; a word which takes its origin from a root.

3.
(Mus.)
A chord, not fundamental, but obtained from another by inversion; or, vice versa, a ground tone or root implied in its harmonics in an actual chord.

4.
(Med.)
An agent which is adapted to produce a derivation (in the medical sense).

5.
(Math.)
A derived function; a function obtained from a given function by a certain algebraic process.

&hand_; Except in the mode of derivation the derivative is the same as the differential coefficient. See Differential coefficient, under Differential.

6.
(Chem.)
A substance so related to another substance by modification or partial substitution as to be regarded as derived from it; thus, the amido compounds are derivatives of ammonia, and the hydrocarbons are derivatives of methane, benzene, etc.


word: derivatize
definition:
derivatize

derivatize
v. t.
(Chem.)
to alter the chemical composition [of a compound] by a chemical reaction which changes some part of the molecule, leaving most of the molecule unchanged; to prepare a derivative{6} from.

Syn. -- modify.


word: Derive
definition:
Derive

De*rive"
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Derived (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deriving.]
[F. dériver, L. derivare; de- + rivus stream, brook. See Rival.]
1.
To turn the course of, as water; to divert and distribute into subordinate channels; to diffuse; to communicate; to transmit; -- followed by to, into, on, upon.
[Obs.]

For fear it [water] choke up the pits . . . they [the workman] derive it by other drains.
Holland.

Her due loves derived to that vile witch's share.
Spenser.

Derived to us by tradition from Adam to Noah.
Jer. Taylor.

2.
To receive, as from a source or origin; to obtain by descent or by transmission; to draw; to deduce; -- followed by from.

3.
To trace the origin, descent, or derivation of; to recognize transmission of; as, he derives this word from the Anglo-Saxon.

From these two causes . . . an ancient set of physicians derived all diseases.
Arbuthnot.

4.
(Chem.)
To obtain one substance from another by actual or theoretical substitution; as, to derive an organic acid from its corresponding hydrocarbon.


word: Derive₂
definition:
Derive

De*rive"
(?)
v. i.
To flow; to have origin; to descend; to proceed; to be deduced.
Shak.

Power from heaven
Derives, and monarchs rule by gods appointed.
Prior.


word: Derivement
definition:
Derivement

De*rive"ment
(?)
n.
That which is derived; deduction; inference.
[Obs.]

I offer these derivements from these subjects.
W. Montagu.


word: -derm
definition:
-derm

-derm
(?)
[See Derm, n.]
A suffix or terminal formative, much used in anatomical terms, and signifying skin, integument, covering; as, blastoderm, ectoderm, etc.


word: Derm
definition:
Derm

Derm
(?)
n.
[Gr. de`rma, -atos, skin, fr. _; to skin, flay: cf. F. derme. See Tear, v. t.]
1.
The integument of animal; the skin.

2.
(Anat.)
See Dermis.


word: Dermacentor
definition:
Dermacentor

Dermacentor
n.
a genus comprising vectors of important diseases of man and animals.

Syn. -- genus Dermacentor.


word: Dermal
definition:
Dermal

Derm"al
(?)
a.
[From Derm.]
1.
Pertaining to the integument or skin of animals; dermic; as, the dermal secretions.

2.
(Anat.)
Pertaining to the dermis or true skin.


word: Dermapteran
definition:
Dermapteran

Dermaptera

&VerbarDer*map"te*ra (?), Der*map"ter*an (_;)
n.
(Zool.)
See Dermoptera, Dermopteran.


word: Dermatine
definition:
Dermatine

Dermatic

{ Der*mat"ic (?), Der"ma*tine (?), }
a.
[Gr. _;, _;, fr. _; skin.]
Of or pertaining to the skin.


word: Dermatitis
definition:
Dermatitis

Der`ma*ti"tis
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. de`rma, -atos, skin + -itis.]
(Med.)
Inflammation of the skin.


word: Dermatogen
definition:
Dermatogen

Der*mat"o*gen
(?)
n.
[Gr. de`rma, -atos, skin + -gen.]
(Bot.)
Nascent epidermis, or external cuticle of plants in a forming condition.


word: Dermatography
definition:
Dermatography

Der*ma*tog"ra*phy
(?)
n.
[Gr. de`rma, -atos, skin + -graphy.]
An anatomical description of, or treatise on, the skin.


word: Dermatoid
definition:
Dermatoid

Der"ma*toid
(?)
a.
[Gr. de`rma, -atos, skin + -oid: cf. F. dermatoïde.  Cf. Dermoid.]
Resembling skin; skinlike.


word: dermatological
definition:
dermatological

dermatologic

dermatologic, dermatological
adj.
of or pertaining to dermatology.

Syn. -- dermatologic.


word: dermatologist
definition:
dermatologist

der`ma*tol"o*gist
(?)
n.
One who discourses on the skin and its diseases; one versed in dermatology
especially,
a physician with specialized training in dermatology, licensed to practise as a specialist in treating diseases of the skin.


word: Dermatology
definition:
Dermatology

Der`ma*tol"o*gy
(?)
n.
[Gr. de`rma, -atos, skin + -logy: cf. F. dermatologie.]
The science which treats of the skin, its structure, functions, and diseases.


word: Dermatopathic
definition:
Dermatopathic

Der`ma*to*path"ic
(?)
a.
[Gr. de`rma, -atos, skin + pa`qos suffering.]
(Med.)
Of or pertaining to skin diseases, or their cure.


word: Dermatophyte
definition:
Dermatophyte

Der*mat"o*phyte
(dẽr*măt"o̝*fīt or dẽr"mȧ*to̝*fīt)
n.
[Gr. de`rma, -atos, skin + fyto`n plant.]
(Med.)
A fungus infecting and parasitic on the skin, especially one which causes disease; as, ringworm is caused by a  dermatophyte.


word: Dermestes
definition:
Dermestes

Der*mes"tes
(?)
n.
[NL., from Gr. dermhsth`s; de`rma skin + root of _;  to eat.]
(Zool.)
A genus of coleopterous insects, the larvæ of which feed animal substances. They are very destructive to dries meats, skins, woolens, and furs. The most common species is Dermestes lardarius, known as the bacon beetle.


word: Dermestoid
definition:
Dermestoid

Der*mes"toid
(?)
a.
[Dermestes + -oid.]
(Zool.)
Pertaining to or resembling the genus Dermestes.

The carpet beetle, called the buffalo moth, is a dermestoid beetle.
Pop. Sci. Monthly.


word: Dermic
definition:
Dermic

Der"mic
(?)
a.
1.
Relating to the derm or skin.

2.
(Anat.)
Pertaining to the dermis; dermal.

Underneath each nail the deep or dermic layer of the integument is peculiarly modified.
Huxley.

Dermic remedies (Med.), such as act through the skin.


word: Dermis
definition:
Dermis

Der"mis
(?)
n.
[NL. See Derm.]
(Anat.)
The deep sensitive layer of the skin beneath the scarfskin or epidermis; -- called also true skin, derm, derma, corium, cutis, and enderon. See Skin, and Illust. in Appendix.


word: Dermobranchiata
definition:
Dermobranchiata

Der`mo*bran`chi*a"ta
(?)
n. pl.
[NL.]
(Zool.)
A group of nudibranch mollusks without special gills.


word: Dermobranchiate
definition:
Dermobranchiate

Der`mo*bran"chi*ate
(?)
a.
[Derm + branchiate.]
(Zool.)
Having the skin modified to serve as a gill.


word: Dermohaemal
definition:
Dermohaemal

Der`mo*hæ"mal
(?)
a.
(Anat.)
Pertaining to, or in relation with, both dermal and hæmal structures; as, the dermohæmal spines or ventral fin rays of fishes.


word: Dermoid
definition:
Dermoid

Der"moid
(?)
a.
[Derm + -oid: cf. F. dermoïde.]
Same as Dermatoid.

Dermoid cyst (Med.), a cyst containing skin, or structures connected with skin, such as hair.


word: Dermoneural
definition:
Dermoneural

Der`mo*neu"ral
(?)
a.
(Anat.)
Pertaining to, or in relation with, both dermal and neural structures; as, the dermoneural spines or dorsal fin rays of fishes.
Owen.


word: Dermoptera
definition:
Dermoptera

Der*mop"te*ra
(?)
n. pl.
[NL., fr. Gr. _; skin + _; wing.]
1.
(Zool.)
The division of insects which includes the earwigs (Forticulidæ).

2.
(Zool.)
A group of lemuroid mammals having a parachutelike web of skin between the fore and hind legs, of which the colugo (Galeopithecus) is the type. See Colugo.

3.
(Zool.)
An order of Mammalia; the Chiroptera.


word: Dermopteran
definition:
Dermopteran

Der*mop"ter*an
(?)
n.
(Zool.)
An insect which has the anterior pair of wings coriaceous, and does not use them in flight, as the earwig.


word: Dermopterygii
definition:
Dermopterygii

Der*mop`te*ryg"i*i
(?)
n. pl.
[NL., fr. Gr. _; skin + _; wing, fin, dim. of _; wing.]
(Zool.)
A group of fishlike animals including the Marsipobranchiata and Leptocardia.


word: Dermostosis
definition:
Dermostosis

Der`mos*to"sis
(?)
n.
[NL., from Gr. _; skin + _; bone.]
(Physiol.)
Ossification of the dermis.


word: Dern₂
definition:
Dern

Dern
a.
[See Dearn, a.]
1.
Hidden; concealed; secret.
[Obs.]
dern
Chaucer.

2.
Solitary; sad.
[Obs.]
Dr. H. More.


word: Derne
definition:
Derne

Derne
(?)
v. t. & i.
[AS. dyrnan to hide. See Dern, a., Dearn, a.]
To hide; to skulk.
[Scot.]

He at length escaped them by derning himself in a foxearth.
H. Miller.


word: Dernier
definition:
Dernier

Der`nier"
(?)
a.
[F., from OF. darrein, derrain. See Darrein.]
Last; final.

Dernier ressort (_;) [F.], last resort or expedient.


word: Derogate
definition:
Derogate

Der"o*gate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Derogated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Derogating (?).]
[L. derogatus, p. p. of derogare to derogate; de- + rogare to ask, to ask the people about a law. See Rogation.]
1.
To annul in part; to repeal partly; to restrict; to limit the action of; -- said of a law.

By several contrary customs, . . . many of the civil and canon laws are controlled and derogated.
Sir M. Hale.

2.
To lessen; to detract from; to disparage; to depreciate; -- said of a person or thing.
[R.]

Anything . . . that should derogate, minish, or hurt his glory and his name.
Sir T. More.


word: Derogate₂
definition:
Derogate

Der"o*gate
(?)
v. i.
1.
To take away; to detract; to withdraw; -- usually with from.

If we did derogate from them whom their industry hath made great.
Hooker.

It derogates little from his fortitude, while it adds infinitely to the honor of his humanity.
Burke.

2.
To act beneath one-s rank, place, birth, or character; to degenerate.
[R.]

You are a fool granted; therefore your issues, being foolish, do not derogate.
Shak.

Would Charles X. derogate from his ancestors? Would he be the degenerate scion of that royal line?
Hazlitt.


word: Derogate₃
definition:
Derogate

Der"o*gate
(?)
n.
[L. derogatus, p. p.]
Diminished in value; dishonored; degraded.
[R.]
Shak.


word: Derogation
definition:
Derogation

Der`o*ga"tion
(?)
n.
[L. derogatio: cf. F. dérogation.]
1.
The act of derogating, partly repealing, or lessening in value; disparagement; detraction; depreciation; -- followed by of, from, or to.

I hope it is no derogation to the Christian religion.
Locke.

He counted it no derogation of his manhood to be seen to weep.
F. W. Robertson.

2.
(Stock Exch.)
An alteration of, or subtraction from, a contract for a sale of stocks.


word: Derogative
definition:
Derogative

De*rog"a*tive
(?)
a.
Derogatory.
De*rog"a*tive*ly, adv. [R.]
Sir T. Browne.

Syn. -- belittling, depreciative, deprecatory, depreciatory, derogatory, detractive, detracting, slighting, pejorative, denigratory.


word: derogatory
definition:
derogatory

de*rog"a*to*ry
(?)
a.
Tending to derogate, or lessen in value; expressing a  low opinion; expressing derogation; detracting; injurious; -- with from, to, or unto.

Syn. -- belittling, depreciative, deprecatory, depreciatory, derogatory, detractive, detracting, slighting, pejorative, denigratory.

Acts of Parliament derogatory from the power of subsequent Parliaments bind not.
Blackstone.

His language was severely censured by some of his brother peers as derogatory to their other.
Macaulay.

Derogatory clause in a testament (Law), a sentence of secret character inserted by the testator alone, of which he reserves the knowledge to himself, with a condition that no will he may make thereafter shall be valid, unless this clause is inserted word for word; -- a precaution to guard against later wills extorted by violence, or obtained by suggestion.


word: Derotremata
definition:
Derotremata

Der`o*tre"ma*ta
(?)
n. pl.
[NL., fr. Gr. de`ros skin + _;, _;, hole.]
(Zool.)
The tribe of aquatic Amphibia which includes Amphiuma, Menopoma, etc. They have permanent gill openings, but no external gills; -- called also Cryptobranchiata.
[Written also Derotrema.]


word: Derrick
definition:
Derrick

Der"rick
(?)
n.
[Orig., a gallows, from a hangman named Derrick. The name is of Dutch origin; D. Diederik, Dierryk, prop. meaning, chief of the people; cf. AS. peódric, E. Theodoric, G. Dietrich. See Dutch, and Rich.]
1.
A mast, spar, or tall frame, supported at the top by stays or guys, and usually pivoted at the base, with suitable tackle for hoisting heavy weights, such as stones in building.

2.
(Mining)
The pyramidal structure or tower over a deep drill hole, such as that of an oil well (also called an oil derrick .

Derrick crane, a combination of the derrick and the crane, having facility for hoisting and also for swinging the load horizontally.


word: Derringer
definition:
Derringer

Der"rin*ger
(?)
n.
[From the American inventor.]
A kind of short-barreled pocket pistol, of very large caliber, often carrying a half-ounce ball.


word: Dertrotheca
definition:
Dertrotheca

Der`tro*the"ca
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _; beak + _; box, case.]
(Zool.)
The horny covering of the end of the bill of birds.


word: Dervis
definition:
Dervis

Dervise

Dervish

{ Der"vish (?), Der"vise (?), Der"vis (?), }
n.
[Per. derwēsch, fr. OPer. derew to beg, ask alms: cf. F. derviche.]
1.
A Turkish or Persian monk, especially one who professes extreme poverty and leads an austere life.

2.
One of the fanatical followers of the Mahdi, in the Sudan, in the 1880's.

3.
in modern times, a member of an ascetic Muslim sect notable for its devotional exercises, which include energetic chanting or shouting and rhythmic bodily movement, such as whirling, leading to a trance-like state or ecstasy.  From these exercises the phrase whirling dervish is derived.

4.
figuratively, a person who whirls or engages in frenzied activity reminiscent of the dervish{3} dancing.


word: Derworth
definition:
Derworth

Der"worth
(dēr"wẽrth)
a.
[AS. deórwurþe, lit., dearworth.]
Precious.
[Obs.]
Piers Plowman.


word: desalinate
definition:
desalinate

desalinate
v. t.
to remove the salt from, especially from water; as, it is necessary to desalinate sea water to make it fit to drink.
several processes are in comon use for desalinating sea water.  Distillation is effective, but expensive.  Reverse osmosis is more economical.

Syn. -- desalt, desalinize.


word: desalinization
definition:
desalinization

desalinization
n.
the removal of salt (especially from sea water); the act or process of desalinating.

Syn. -- desalination, desalinisation.


word: desalt
definition:
desalt

desalt
v.
to remove the salt from (a solution of salt).
This term is used in a more general sense than desalinate, which usually refers to the removal of common salt (sodium chloride) from a water solution, such as sea water.  Desalt is commonly used to refer to any laboratory or industrial process in which any salt may be removed from a mixture of substances dssolved in a solvent, usually water.  It is thus used as a method of purification in chemical processes.  The methods for desalting are very varied.

Syn. -- desalinate, desalinize.


word: descale
definition:
descale

descale
v. t.
to remove the scales from; -- e.g. of fish, or water boilers.

Syn. -- scale.


word: Descant
definition:
Descant

Des"cant
(dĕs"kănt)
n.
[OF. descant, deschant, F. déchant, discant, LL. discantus, fr. L. dis + cantus singing, melody, fr. canere to sing. See Chant, and cf. Descant, v. i., Discant.]
1.
(Mus.)
(a)
Originally, a double song; a melody or counterpoint sung above the plain song of the tenor; a variation of an air; a variation by ornament of the main subject or plain song.
(b)
The upper voice in part music.
(c)
The canto, cantus, or soprano voice; the treble.
Grove.

Twenty doctors expound one text twenty ways, as children make descant upon plain song.
Tyndale.

She [the nightingale] all night long her amorous descant sung.
Milton.

&hand_; The term has also been used synonymously with counterpoint, or polyphony, which developed out of the French déchant, of the 12th century.

2.
A discourse formed on its theme, like variations on a musical air; a comment or comments.

Upon that simplest of themes how magnificent a descant!
De Quincey.


word: Descant₂
definition:
Descant

Des*cant"
(dĕs*kănt")
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Descanted; p. pr. & vb. n. Descanting.]
[From descant; n.; or directly fr. OF. descanter, deschanter; L. dis- + cantare to sing.]
1.
To sing a variation or accomplishment.

2.
To comment freely; to discourse with fullness and particularity; to discourse at large.

A virtuous man should be pleased to find people descanting on his actions.
Addison.


word: Descartes
definition:
Descartes

Descartes
(da̝*kärt")
prop. n.
René Descartes, a French philosopher and mathematician, born 159, died 1650.  See biography, below.

Syn. -- Rene Descartes.


word: Descend
definition:
Descend

De*scend"
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Descended; p. pr. & vb. n. Descending.]
[F. descendre, L. descendere, descensum; de- + scandere to climb. See Scan.]
1.
To pass from a higher to a lower place; to move downwards; to come or go down in any way, as by falling, flowing, walking, etc.; to plunge; to fall; to incline downward; -- the opposite of ascend.

The rain descended, and the floods came.
Matt. vii. 25.

We will here descend to matters of later date.
Fuller.

2.
To enter mentally; to retire.
[Poetic]

[He] with holiest meditations fed,
Into himself descended.
Milton.

3.
To make an attack, or incursion, as if from a vantage ground; to come suddenly and with violence; -- with on or upon.

And on the suitors let thy wrath descend.
Pope.

4.
To come down to a lower, less fortunate, humbler, less virtuous, or worse, state or station; to lower or abase one's self; as, he descended from his high estate.

5.
To pass from the more general or important to the particular or less important matters to be considered.

6.
To come down, as from a source, original, or stock; to be derived; to proceed by generation or by transmission; to fall or pass by inheritance; as, the beggar may descend from a prince; a crown descends to the heir.

7.
(Anat.)
To move toward the south, or to the southward.

8.
(Mus.)
To fall in pitch; to pass from a higher to a lower tone.


