# dictionary

word: Less₃
definition:
Less

Less
adv.
[AS. l&aemacr_;s. See Less, adj., and cf. Lest.]
Not so much; in a smaller or lower degree; as, less bright or loud; less beautiful.


word: Less₄
definition:
Less

Less
n.
1.
A smaller portion or quantity.

The children of Israel did so, and gathered, some more, some less.
Ex. xvi. 17.

2.
The inferior, younger, or smaller.

The less is blessed of the better.
Heb. vii. 7. 


word: Lessee
definition:
Lessee

Les*see"
(lĕs*sē")
n.
[F. laissé, p. p. of laisser. See Lease, v. t.]
(Law)
The person to whom a lease is given, or who takes an estate by lease.
Blackstone.


word: Lessen
definition:
Lessen

Less"en
(lĕs"'n)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Lessened (-'nd); p. pr. & vb. n. Lessening.]
[From Less, a.]
To make less; to reduce; to make smaller, or fewer; to diminish; to lower; to degrade; as, to lessen a kingdom, or a population; to lessen speed, rank, fortune.

Charity . . . shall lessen his punishment.
Calamy.

St. Paul chose to magnify his office when ill men conspired to lessen it.
Atterbury.


word: Lessen₂
definition:
Lessen

Less"en
v. i.
To become less; to shrink; to contract; to decrease; to be diminished; as, the apparent magnitude of objects lessens as we recede from them; his care, or his wealth, lessened.

The objection lessens much, and comes to no more than this: there was one witness of no good reputation.
Atterbury.


word: Lessener
definition:
Lessener

Less"en*er
(-ẽr)
n.
One who, or that which, lessens.

His wife . . . is the lessener of his pain, and the augmenter of his pleasure.
J. Rogers (1839). 


word: lessening
definition:
lessening

lessening
adj.
becoming less in dimension or degree; as, the lessening distance between us.


word: Lesser
definition:
Lesser

Less"er
(lĕs"ẽr)
a.
[This word is formed by adding anew the compar. suffix -er (in which r is from an original s) to less. See Less, a.]
Less; smaller; inferior.

God made . . . the lesser light to rule the night.
Gen. i. 15.

&hand_; Lesser is used for less, now the compar. of little, in certain special instances in which its employment has become established by custom; as, Lesser Asia (i. e., Asia Minor), the lesser light, and some others; also in poetry, for the sake of the meter, and in prose where its use renders the passage more euphonious.

The more my prayer, the lesser is my grace.
Shak.

The larger here, and there the lesser lambs.
Pope.

By the same reason may a man, in the state of nature, punish the lesser breaches of the law.
Locke.


word: Lesses
definition:
Lesses

Les"ses
(lĕs"sĕz)
n. pl.
[F. laissées, from laisser to leave. See Lease, v. t.]
The leavings or dung of beasts.


word: Lesson
definition:
Lesson

Les"son
(lĕs"s'n)
n.
[OE. lessoun, F. leçon lesson, reading, fr. L. lectio a reading, fr. legere to read, collect. See Legend, and cf. Lection.]
1.
Anything read or recited to a teacher by a pupil or learner; something, as a portion of a book, assigned to a pupil to be studied or learned at one time.

2.
That which is learned or taught by an express effort; instruction derived from precept, experience, observation, or deduction; a precept; a doctrine; as, to take or give a lesson in drawing.
lesson
Milton.

Emprinteth well this lesson in your mind.
Chaucer.

3.
A portion of Scripture read in divine service for instruction; as, here endeth the first lesson.

4.
A severe lecture; reproof; rebuke; warning.

She would give her a lesson for walking so late.
Sir. P. Sidney.

5.
(Mus.)
 An exercise; a composition serving an educational purpose; a study.


word: Lesson₂
definition:
Lesson

Les"son
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Lessoned (-s'nd); p. pr. & vb. n. Lessoning.]
To teach; to instruct.
Shak.

To rest the weary, and to soothe the sad,
Doth lesson happier men, and shame at least the bad.
Byron.


word: Lessor
definition:
Lessor

Les"sor
(lĕs"s&obreve_;r or lĕs*sôr")
n.
[See Lessee, Lease, v. t.]
(Law)
One who leases; the person who lets to farm, or gives a lease.
Blackstone.


word: less-traveled
definition:
less-traveled

less-traveled
adj.
not visited by many travelers; as, the tourist's desire to visit less-traveled countries.


word: Lest₄
definition:
Lest

Lest
conj.
[OE. leste, fr. AS. ð&ymacr_; l&aemacr_;s ðē the less that, where ð&ymacr_; is the instrumental case of the definite article, and ðē is an indeclinable relative particle, that, who, which. See The, Less, a.]
1.
For fear that; that . . . not; in order that . . . not.

Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty.
Prov. xx. 13.

Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.
1 Cor. x. 12.

2.
That (without the negative particle); -- after certain expressions denoting fear or apprehension.

I feared
Lest I might anger thee.
Shak.


word: Lester
definition:
Lester

Les"ter
(?)
n.
[Pg., prob. fr. Fr. l'est the east.]
(Meteor.)
A dry sirocco in the Madeira Islands.


word: -let
definition:
-let

-let
(-lĕt)
suff.
[From two French dim. endings -el (L. -ellus) and -et, as in bracelet.]
A noun suffix having a diminutive force; as in streamlet, wavelet, armlet.


word: Let
definition:
Let

Let
(lĕt)
v. t.
[OE. letten, AS. lettan to delay, to hinder, fr. læt slow; akin to D. letten to hinder, G. verletzen to hurt, Icel. letja to hold back, Goth. latjan. See Late.]
To retard; to hinder; to impede; to oppose.
[Archaic]

He was so strong that no man might him let.
Chaucer.

He who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.
2. Thess. ii. 7.

Mine ancient wound is hardly whole,
And lets me from the saddle.
Tennyson.


word: Let₂
definition:
Let

Let
n.
1.
A retarding; hindrance; obstacle; impediment; delay; -- common in the phrase without let or hindrance, but elsewhere archaic.
Keats.

Consider whether your doings be to the let of your salvation or not.
Latimer.

2.
(Lawn Tennis)
A stroke in which a ball touches the top of the net in passing over.


word: Let₃
definition:
Let

Let
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Let (Letted (lĕt"tĕd), [Obs].); p. pr. & vb. n. Letting.]
[OE. leten, læten (past tense lat, let, p. p. laten, leten, lete), AS. l&aemacr_;tan (past tense lēt, p. p. l&aemacr_;ten); akin to OFries. lēta, OS. lātan, D. laten, G. lassen, OHG. lāzzan, Icel. lāta, Sw. låta, Dan. lade, Goth. lētan, and L. lassus weary. The original meaning seems to have been, to let loose, let go, let drop. Cf. Alas, Late, Lassitude, Let to hinder.]
1.
To leave; to relinquish; to abandon.
[Obs. or Archaic, except when followed by alone or be.]

He . . . prayed him his voyage for to let.
Chaucer.

Yet neither spins nor cards, ne cares nor frets,
But to her mother Nature all her care she lets.
Spenser.

Let me alone in choosing of my wife.
Chaucer.

2.
To consider; to think; to esteem.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.

3.
To cause; to make; -- used with the infinitive in the active form but in the passive sense; as, let make, i. e., cause to be made; let bring, i. e., cause to be brought.
[Obs.]

This irous, cursed wretch
Let this knight's son anon before him fetch.
Chaucer.

He . . . thus let do slay hem all three.
Chaucer.

Anon he let two coffers make.
Gower.

4.
To permit; to allow; to suffer; -- either affirmatively, by positive act, or negatively, by neglecting to restrain or prevent.

&hand_; In this sense, when followed by an infinitive, the latter is commonly without the sign to; as to let us walk, i. e., to permit or suffer us to walk. Sometimes there is entire omission of the verb; as, to let [to be or to go] loose.

Pharaoh said, I will let you go.
Ex. viii. 28.

If your name be Horatio, as I am let to know it is.
Shak.

5.
To allow to be used or occupied for a compensation; to lease; to rent; to hire out; -- often with out; as, to let a farm; to let a house; to let out horses.

6.
To give, grant, or assign, as a work, privilege, or contract; -- often with out; as, to let the building of a bridge; to let out the lathing and the plastering.

&hand_; The active form of the infinitive of let, as of many other English verbs, is often used in a passive sense; as, a house to let (i. e., for letting, or to be let). This form of expression conforms to the use of the Anglo-Saxon gerund with to (dative infinitive) which was commonly so employed. See Gerund, 2. “ Your elegant house in Harley Street is to let.” Thackeray.
  In the imperative mood, before the first person plural, let has a hortative force. “ Rise up, let us go.” Mark xiv. 42. “ Let us seek out some desolate shade.” Shak.

To let alone, to leave; to withdraw from; to refrain from interfering with. -- To let blood, to cause blood to flow; to bleed. -- To let down. (a) To lower. (b) To soften in tempering; as, to let down tools, cutlery, and the like. -- To let fly or To let drive, to discharge with violence, as a blow, an arrow, or stone. See under Drive, and Fly. -- To let in or To let into. (a) To permit or suffer to enter; to admit. (b) To insert, or imbed, as a piece of wood, in a recess formed in a surface for the purpose. -- To let loose, to remove restraint from; to permit to wander at large. -- To let off. (a) To discharge; to let fly, as an arrow; to fire the charge of, as a gun. (b) To release, as from an engagement or obligation. [Colloq.] -- To let out. (a) To allow to go forth; as, to let out a prisoner. (b) To extend or loosen, as the folds of a garment; to enlarge; to suffer to run out, as a cord. (c) To lease; to give out for performance by contract, as a job. (d) To divulge. -- To let slide, to let go; to cease to care for. [Colloq.] “ Let the world slide.” Shak.


word: Let₄
definition:
Let

Let
v. i.
1.
To forbear.
[Obs.]
Bacon.

2.
To be let or leased; as, the farm lets for $500 a year. See note under Let, v. t.

To let on, to tell; to tattle; to divulge something. [Low] -- To let up, to become less severe; to diminish; to cease; as, when the storm lets up. [Colloq.]


word: Let-alone
definition:
Let-alone

Let"-a*lone"
(lĕt"ȧ*l&omacrn")
a.
Letting alone.

The let-alone principle, The let-alone doctrine, or The let-alone policy. (Polit. Econ.) See Laissez faire.


word: Letch₂
definition:
Letch

Letch
n.
[See Lech, Lecher.]
1.
Strong desire; passion; especially, lust.
[Archaic]

Some people have a letch for unmasking impostors, or for avenging the wrongs of others.
De Quincey.

2.
A lecher.
[slang]


word: Lethal
definition:
Lethal

Leth"al
(lĕth"ăl)
n.
[Lauric + ether + alcohol.]
(Chem.)
One of the higher alcohols of the paraffine series obtained from spermaceti as a white crystalline solid. It is so called because it occurs in the ethereal salt of lauric acid.


word: Lethal₂
definition:
Lethal

Le"thal
(lē"thal)
a.
[L. lethalis, letalis, fr. lethum, letum, death: cf. F. léthal.]
Deadly; mortal; fatal.
lethal
W. Richardson.
Le"thal*ly, adv.


word: Lethality
definition:
Lethality

Le*thal"i*ty
(le̝*thăl"ĭ*t&ybreve_;)
n.
[Cf. F. léthalité.]
The quality of being lethal; mortality.


word: Lethargical
definition:
Lethargical

Lethargic

{ Le*thar"gic (le̝*thär"jĭk), Le*thar"gic*al (-jĭ*kal), }
a.
[L. lethargicus, Gr. lhqargiko`s: cf. F. léthargique. See Lethargy.]
Pertaining to, affected with, or resembling, lethargy; morbidly drowsy; dull; heavy.
Le*thar"gic*al*ly, adv. -- Le*thar"gic*al*ness, n. -- Le*thar"gic*ness, n.


word: Lethargize
definition:
Lethargize

Leth"ar*gize
(lĕth"ȧr*jīz)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Lethargized (-jīzd); p. pr. & vb. n. Lethargizing (-jī`zĭng).]
To make lethargic.

All bitters are poison, and act by stilling, and depressing, and lethargizing the irritability.
Coleridge.


word: Lethargy
definition:
Lethargy

Leth"ar*gy
(-j&ybreve_;)
n.
pl. -gies (-jĭz).
[F. léthargie, L. lethargia, Gr. lhqargi`a, fr. lh`qargos forgetful, fr. lh`qh forgetfulness. See Lethe.]
1.
Morbid drowsiness; continued or profound sleep, from which a person can scarcely be awaked.

2.
A state of inaction or indifference.

Europe lay then under a deep lethargy.
Atterbury.


word: Lethe₂
definition:
Lethe

Le"the
(lē"the̝)
n.
[L., fr. Gr. lh`qh, prop., forgetfulness; akin to lanqa`nesqai to forget, lanqa`nein to escape notice.]
1.
(Class. Myth.)
A river of Hades whose waters when drunk caused forgetfulness of the past.

2.
Oblivion; a draught of oblivion; forgetfulness.


word: Lethean
definition:
Lethean

Le*the"an
(le̝*thē"an)
a.
[L. Lethaeus, Gr. lh`qaios or lhqai^os.]
Of or pertaining to Lethe; resembling in effect the water of Lethe.
Milton. Barrow.


word: Letheon
definition:
Letheon

Le"the*on
(lē"the̝*&obreve_;n)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. lh`qh.]
(Med.)
Sulphuric ether used as an anæsthetic agent.
[R.]


word: Lethiferous
definition:
Lethiferous

Le*thif"er*ous
(le̝*thĭf"ẽr*ŭs)
a.
[L. lethifer, letifer, fr. lethum, letum, death + ferre to bear, to bring: cf. F. léthifère.]
Deadly; bringing death or destruction.


word: Let-off
definition:
Let-off

Let"-off`
(lĕt"&obreve_;f`; 115)
n.
(Mach.)
A device for letting off, releasing, or giving forth, as the warp from the cylinder of a loom.


word: Lette
definition:
Lette

Let"te
(lĕt"te)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Letted.]
To let; to hinder. See Let, to hinder.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: Letter
definition:
Letter

Let"ter
(lĕt"tẽr)
n.
[From Let to permit.]
One who lets or permits; one who lets anything for hire.


word: Letter₃
definition:
Letter

Let"ter
n.
[OE. lettre, F. lettre, OF. letre, fr. L. littera, litera, a letter; pl., an epistle, a writing, literature, fr. linere, litum, to besmear, to spread or rub over; because one of the earliest modes of writing was by graving the characters upon tablets smeared over or covered with wax. Pliny, xiii. 11. See Liniment, and cf. Literal.]
1.
A mark or character used as the representative of a sound, or of an articulation of the human organs of speech; a first element of written language.

And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew.
Luke xxiii. 38.

2.
A written or printed communication; a message expressed in intelligible characters on something adapted to conveyance, as paper, parchment, etc.; an epistle.

The style of letters ought to be free, easy, and natural.
Walsh.

3.
A writing; an inscription.
[Obs.]

None could expound what this letter meant.
Chaucer.

4.
Verbal expression; literal statement or meaning; exact signification or requirement.

We must observe the letter of the law, without doing violence to the reason of the law and the intention of the lawgiver.
Jer. Taylor.

I broke the letter of it to keep the sense.
Tennyson.

5.
(Print.)
A single type; type, collectively; a style of type.

Under these buildings . . . was the king's printing house, and that famous letter so much esteemed.
Evelyn.

6.
pl.
Learning; erudition; as, a man of letters.

7.
pl.
A letter; an epistle.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.

8.
(Teleg.)
A telegram longer than an ordinary message sent at rates lower than the standard message rate in consideration of its being sent and delivered subject to priority in service of regular messages. Such telegrams are called by the Western Union Company day letters, or night letters according to the time of sending, and by The Postal Telegraph Company day lettergrams, or night lettergrams.

Dead letter, Drop letter, etc. See under Dead, Drop, etc. -- Letter book, a book in which copies of letters are kept. -- Letter box, a box for the reception of letters to be mailed or delivered. -- Letter carrier, a person who carries letters; a postman; specif., an officer of the post office who carries letters to the persons to whom they are addressed, and collects letters to be mailed. -- Letter cutter, one who engraves letters or letter punches. -- Letter lock, a lock that can not be opened when fastened, unless certain movable lettered rings or disks forming a part of it are in such a position (indicated by a particular combination of the letters) as to permit the bolt to be withdrawn.
[1913 Webster]
A strange lock that opens with AMEN. Beau. & Fl.
-- Letter paper, paper for writing letters on; especially, a size of paper intermediate between note paper and foolscap. See Paper. -- Letter punch, a steel punch with a letter engraved on the end, used in making the matrices for type. -- Letters of administration (Law), the instrument by which an administrator or administratrix is authorized to administer the goods and estate of a deceased person. -- Letter of attorney, Letter of credit, etc. See under Attorney, Credit, etc. -- Letter of license, a paper by which creditors extend a debtor's time for paying his debts. -- Letters close or Letters clause (Eng. Law.), letters or writs directed to particular persons for particular purposes, and hence closed or sealed on the outside; -- distinguished from letters patent. Burrill. -- Letters of orders (Eccl.), a document duly signed and sealed, by which a bishop makes it known that he has regularly ordained a certain person as priest, deacon, etc. -- Letters patent, Letters overt, or Letters open (Eng. Law), a writing executed and sealed, by which power and authority are granted to a person to do some act, or enjoy some right; as, letters patent under the seal of England.  The common commercial patent is a derivative form of such a right. -- Letter-sheet envelope, a stamped sheet of letter paper issued by the government, prepared to be folded and sealed for transmission by mail without an envelope. -- Letters testamentary (Law), an instrument granted by the proper officer to an executor after probate of a will, authorizing him to act as executor. -- Letter writer. (a) One who writes letters. (b) A machine for copying letters. (c) A book giving directions and forms for the writing of letters.


word: Letter₄
definition:
Letter

Let"ter
(lĕt"tẽr)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Lettered (-tẽrd); p. pr. & vb. n. Lettering.]
To impress with letters; to mark with letters or words; as, a book gilt and lettered.


word: letter-bomb
definition:
letter-bomb

letter bomb

let"ter bomb`, let"ter-bomb`
n.
A bomb disguised as a letter and sent through the mail, usually rigged to explode and kill or harm the recipient when opened.


word: Lettered
definition:
Lettered

Let"tered
(lĕt"tẽrd)
a.
1.
Literate; educated; versed in literature.
lettered
Shak.

The unlettered barbarians willingly accepted the aid of the lettered clergy, still chiefly of Roman birth, to reduce to writing the institutes of their forefathers.
Milman.

2.
Of or pertaining to learning or literature; learned.
lettered
Collier.

3.
Inscribed or stamped with letters.
Addison.


word: Lettering
definition:
Lettering

Let"ter*ing
n.
1.
The act or business of making, or marking with, letters, as by cutting or painting.

2.
The letters made; as, the lettering of a sign.


word: Letterless
definition:
Letterless

Let"ter*less
(lĕt"tẽr*lĕs)
a.
1.
Not having a letter.

2.
Illiterate.
[Obs.]
E. Waterhouse.


word: letter-perfect
definition:
letter-perfect

letter-perfect
adj.
correct to the last detail; especially being in or following the exact words; as, a letter-perfect rendition of the soliloquy.

Syn. -- word-perfect.


word: Letterpress
definition:
Letterpress

Let"ter*press`
(-tẽr*prĕs`)
n.
Print; letters and words impressed on paper or other material by types; -- often used of the reading matter in distinction from the illustrations.

Letterpress printing, printing directly from type, in distinction from printing from plates.


word: Letterwood
definition:
Letterwood

Let"ter*wood`
(-wŏd`)
n.
(Bot.)
The beautiful and highly elastic wood of a tree of the genus Brosimum (Brosimum Aubletii), found in Guiana; -- so called from black spots in it which bear some resemblance to hieroglyphics; also called snakewood, and leopardwood. It is much used for bows and for walking sticks.


word: Lettic
definition:
Lettic

Let"tic
(lĕt"tĭk)
a.
(a)
Of or pertaining to the Letts; Lettish.
(b)
Of or pertaining to a branch of the Slavic family, subdivided into Lettish, Lithuanian, and Old Prussian.
n. (a) The language of the Letts; Lettish. (b) The language of the Lettic race, including Lettish, Lithuanian, and Old Prussian.


word: Lettish
definition:
Lettish

Let"tish
(lĕt"tĭsh)
a.
Of or pertaining to the Letts.
n. The language spoken by the Letts. See Lettic.


word: Letts
definition:
Letts

Letts
(lĕts)
n. pl.
sing. Lett (lĕt)
(Ethnol.)
An Indo-European people, allied to the Lithuanians and Old Prussians, and inhabiting a part of the Baltic provinces of Russia.


word: Lettuce
definition:
Lettuce

Let"tuce
(lĕt"tĭs)
n.
[OE. letuce, prob. through Old French from some Late Latin derivative of L. lactuca lettuce, which, according to Varro, is fr. lac, lactis, milk, on account of the milky white juice which flows from it when it is cut: cf. F. laitue. Cf. Lacteal, Lactucic.]
1.
(Bot.)
A composite plant of the genus Lactuca (Lactuca sativa), the leaves of which are used as salad.  Plants of this genus yield a milky juice, from which lactucarium is obtained.  The commonest wild lettuce of the United States is Lactuca Canadensis.

2.
United States currency; dollar bills; greenbacks.
[slang]

Hare's lettuce, Lamb's lettuce. See under Hare, and Lamb. -- Lettuce opium. See Lactucarium. -- Sea lettuce, certain papery green seaweeds of the genus Ulva.


word: Let-up
definition:
Let-up

Let"-up`
(lĕt"ŭp`)
n.
[See Let to forbear.]
Abatement; also, cessation; as, it blew a gale for three days without any let-up.
[Colloq.]


word: Leucadendron
definition:
Leucadendron

Leu`ca*den"dron
(lū`kȧ*dĕn"dr&obreve_;n)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. leyko`s white + de`ndron tree.]
(Bot.)
A genus of evergreen shrubs from the Cape of Good Hope, having handsome foliage. Leucadendron argenteum is the silverboom of the colonists.


word: Leucaniline
definition:
Leucaniline

Leu*can"i*line
(l&uuptack_;*kăn"ĭ*lĭn or -lēn)
n.
[Leuc- + aniline.]
(Chem.)
A colorless, crystalline, organic base, obtained from rosaniline by reduction, and also from other sources. It forms colorless salts.


word: Leuchaemia
definition:
Leuchaemia

Leu*chæ"mi*a
(l&uuptack_;*kē"mĭ*ȧ)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. leyko`s white + a"i^ma blood.]
(Med.)
See Leukemia.
[Written also leukemia, leukaemia,a nd leucemia.]

Leu*chæm"ic (l&uuptack_;*kĕm"ĭk), a. [Written also leukemic and leukaemic.]


word: Leucinic
definition:
Leucinic

Leucic

{ Leu"cic (lū"sĭk), Leu*cin"ic (l&uuptack_;*sĭn"ĭk), }
a.
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or designating, an acid obtained from leucin, and called also oxycaproic acid.


word: Leucin
definition:
Leucin

Leucine

Leu"cine (lō"sēn), Leu"cin
(lū"sĭn)
n.
[Gr. leyko`s white.]
(Physiol. Chem.)
a naturally occurring alpha-amino acid ((CH3)2CH.CH2.CH(NH2)-COOH), one of the building units of almost all proteins of living organisms, both animal and vegetable.  It is one of the essential amino acids (not synthesized by the human body, a required component for proper nutrition), and is hydrophobic in character when bound in proteins. In isolated form it is a white, crystalline, zwitterionic substance formed, e. g. by the decomposition of proteins by pancreatic digestion, by the action of boiling dilute mineral acid, or by putrefaction. Chemically it is to be considered as amido-caproic acid.  It occurs as two optical isomers, the L- and D-forms.  The L-form, L-leucine, is the natural form, present in most proteins.


word: Leuciscus
definition:
Leuciscus

Leuciscus
prop. n.
A genus of freshwater fishes including the dace (Leuciscus leuciscus).

Syn. -- genus Leuciscus.


word: Leucite
definition:
Leucite

Leu"cite
(lū"sīt)
n.
[Gr. leyko`s white: cf. F. leucite.]

1.
(Min.)
A mineral having a glassy fracture, occurring in translucent trapezohedral crystals. It is a silicate of alumina and potash KAlSi2O6.  It is found in the volcanic rocks of Italy, especially at Vesuvius.

2.
(Bot.)
A leucoplast.


word: Leucitoid
definition:
Leucitoid

Leu"ci*toid
(lū"sĭ*toid)
n.
[Leucite + -oid.]
(Crystallog.)
The trapezohedron or tetragonal trisoctahedron; -- so called as being the form of the mineral leucite.


word: Leuc-₂
definition:
Leuc-

Leuco-

{ Leu"co- (lū"ko̝-), Leuc- (lūk-). }
pref.
[Gr. leyko`s white.]
A combining form signifying white, colorless; specif. (Chem.), denoting an extensive series of colorless organic compounds, obtained by reduction from certain other colored compounds; as, leucaniline, leucaurin, etc.


word: Leucocyte
definition:
Leucocyte

Leu"co*cyte
(lū"ko̝*sīt)
n.
[Leuco- + Gr. ky`tos a hollow vessel.]
(Physiol.)
A colorless corpuscle, as one of the white blood corpuscles, or those found in lymph, marrow of bone, connective tissue, etc.

&hand_; They all consist of more or less spherical masses of protoplasm, without any surrounding membrane or wall, and are capable of motion.


word: Leucocythemia
definition:
Leucocythemia

Leucocythaemia

{ &VerbarLeu`co*cy*thæ"mi*a &VerbarLeu`co*cy*the"mi*a } 
(lū`ko̝*si̝*thē"mĭ*ȧ)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. leyko`s white + ky`tos a hollow vessel + a"i^ma blood.]
(Med.)
Same as leukemia.


word: Leucocytogenesis
definition:
Leucocytogenesis

Leu`co*cy`to*gen"e*sis
(-sī`to̝*jĕn"e̝*sĭs)
n.
[Leucocyte + genesis.]
(Physiol.)
The formation of leucocytes.


word: Leucoethiopic
definition:
Leucoethiopic

Leu`co*e`thi*op"ic
(-ē`thĭ*&obreve_;p"ĭk)
a.
[Leuco- + Ethiopic.]
White and black; -- said of a white animal of a black species, or the albino of the negro race.


word: Leucoethiops
definition:
Leucoethiops

Leu`co*e"thi*ops
(-ē"thĭ*&obreve_;ps)
n.
[Leuco- + Aethiops.]
An albino.
[Also written leucœthiops.]


word: Leucoline
definition:
Leucoline

Leu"co*line
(lū"ko̝*lĭn or -lēn)
n.
[Leuc- + L. oleum oil.]
(Chem.)
A nitrogenous organic base from coal tar, and identical with quinoline. Cf. Quinoline.


word: Leucoma
definition:
Leucoma

Leu*co"ma
(l&uuptack_;*k&omacr"mȧ)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. ley`kwma, fr. leyko`s white.]
(Med.)
A white opacity in the cornea of the eye; -- called also albugo.


word: Leucomaine
definition:
Leucomaine

Leu*co"ma*ine
(l&uuptack_;*k&omacr"mȧ*ĭn or -ēn)
n.
[Leuco- + -maine, as in ptomaine.]
(Physiol. Chem.)
An animal base or alkaloid, appearing in the tissue during life; hence, a vital alkaloid, as distinguished from a ptomaine or cadaveric poison.


word: Leuconic
definition:
Leuconic

Leu*con"ic
(-k&obreve_;n"ĭk)
a.
[Leuc- + croconic.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or designating, a complex organic acid, obtained as a yellowish white gum by the oxidation of croconic acid.


word: Leucopathy
definition:
Leucopathy

Leu*cop"a*thy
(l&uuptack_;*k&obreve_;p"ȧ*th&ybreve_;)
n.
[Leuco- + Gr. pa`schein, paqei^n to suffer.]
The state of an albino, or of a white child of black parents.


word: Leucophane
definition:
Leucophane

Leu"co*phane
(lū"ko̝*fān)
n.
[Gr. leykofanh`s appearing bright or white; leyko`s white + fai`nein to show: cf. G. leukophan.]
(Min.)
A mineral of a greenish yellow color; it is a silicate of glucina, lime, and soda with fluorine. Called also leucophanite.


word: Leucophlegmacy
definition:
Leucophlegmacy

Leu`co*phleg"ma*cy
(lū`ko̝*flĕg"mȧ*s&ybreve_;)
n.
[Gr. leykoflegmati`a; leyko`s white + fle`gma phlegm: cf. F. leucophlegmasie.]
(Med.)
A dropsical habit of body, or the commencement of anasarca; paleness, with viscid juices and cold sweats.


word: Leucophlegmatic
definition:
Leucophlegmatic

Leu`co*phleg*mat"ic
(-flĕg*măt"ĭk)
a.
[Cf. F. leucophlegmatique, Gr. leykofle`gmatos.]
Having a dropsical habit of body, with a white bloated skin.


word: Leucophyll
definition:
Leucophyll

Leu"co*phyll
(lū"ko̝*fĭl)
n.
[Leuco- + Gr. fy`llon a leaf.]
(Chem.)
A colorless substance isomeric with chlorophyll, contained in parts of plants capable of becoming green.
Watts.


word: Leucophyllous
definition:
Leucophyllous

Leu*coph"yl*lous
(l&uuptack_;*k&obreve_;f"ĭl*lŭs or lū`ko̝*fĭl"lŭs)
a.
[Gr. leyko`fyllos; leyko`s white + fy`llon a leaf.]
(Bot.)
Having white or silvery foliage.


word: Leucoplastid
definition:
Leucoplastid

Leucoplast

{ Leu"co*plast (lū"ko̝*plăst), Leu`co*plas"tid (-plăs"tĭd), }
n.
[Leuco- + Gr. pla`ssein to mold.]
(Bot.)
One of certain very minute whitish or colorless granules occurring in the protoplasm of plants and supposed to be the nuclei around which starch granules will form.


word: Leucopyrite
definition:
Leucopyrite

Leu*cop"y*rite
(l&uuptack_;*k&obreve_;p"ĭ*rīt)
n.
[Leuco- + pyrites.]
(Min.)
A mineral of a color between white and steel-gray, with a metallic luster, and consisting chiefly of arsenic and iron.


word: Leucorrhoea
definition:
Leucorrhoea

Leu`cor*rhœ"a
(lū`k&obreve_;r*rē"ȧ)
n.
[Leuco- + Gr. "rei^n to flow.]
(Med.)
A discharge of a white, yellowish, or greenish, viscid mucus, resulting from inflammation or irritation of the membrane lining the genital organs of the female; the whites.
Dunglison.


word: Leucoryx
definition:
Leucoryx

Leu"co*ryx
(lū"ko̝*rĭks)
n.
[NL., from Gr. leyko`s + 'o`ryx a kind of gazelle.]
(Zool.)
A large antelope of North Africa (Oryx leucoryx), allied to the gemsbok.


word: Leucoscope
definition:
Leucoscope

Leu"co*scope
(lū"ko̝*sk&omacrp)
n.
[Leuco- + -scope.]
(Physics)
An instrument, devised by Professor Helmholtz, for testing the color perception of the eye, or for comparing different lights, as to their constituent colors or their relative whiteness.


word: Leucosoid
definition:
Leucosoid

Leu"co*soid
(-soid)
a.
[NL. Leucosia, the typical genus (fr. Gr. leyko`s white) + -oid.]
(Zool.)
Like or pertaining to the Leucosoidea, a tribe of marine crabs including the box crab or Calappa.


word: Leucoturic
definition:
Leucoturic

Leu`co*tu"ric
(lū`ko̝*tū"rĭk)
a.
[Leuco- + allantoic + uric.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or designating, a nitrogenous organic substance of the uric acid group, called leucoturic acid or oxalantin. See Oxalantin.


word: Leucous
definition:
Leucous

Leu"cous
(lū"kŭs)
a.
[Gr. leyko`s.]
White; -- applied to albinos, from the whiteness of their skin and hair.


word: Leucoxene
definition:
Leucoxene

Leu*cox"ene
(l&uuptack_;*k&obreve_;ks"ēn)
n.
[Leuco- + Gr. xe`nos stranger.]
(Min.)
A nearly opaque white mineral, in part identical with titanite, observed in some igneous rocks as the result of the alteration of titanic iron.


word: leukaemia
definition:
leukaemia

leukemia

leu*kæ"mi*a
(l&uuptack_;*kē"mĭ*ȧ)
n.
A disease in which the white corpuscles of the blood are largely increased in number, and there is enlargement of the spleen, or the lymphatic glands; formerly called leucocythaemia.  It is due to a cancer of the bone marrow, and results in anemia and increased susceptibility to infectious disease.
[Also spelled leucemia  and leuchaemia.]


word: Levana
definition:
Levana

Le*va"na
(le̝*vā"nȧ)
n.
[L., fr. levare to raise.]
(Rom. Myth.)
A goddess who protected newborn infants.


word: Levant
definition:
Levant

Le"vant
(lē"vant)
a.
[F., p. pr. of lever to raise.]
(Law)
Rising or having risen from rest; -- said of cattle. See Couchant and levant, under Couchant.


word: Levant₂
definition:
Levant

Le*vant"
(le̝*vănt")
n.
[It. levante the point where the sun rises, the east, the Levant, fr. levare to raise, levarsi to rise: cf. F. levant. See Lever.]
1.
The countries washed by the eastern part of the Mediterranean and its contiguous waters.

2.
A levanter (the wind so called).


word: Levant₃
definition:
Levant

Le"vant
(lē"vant; 277)
a.
Eastern.
[Obs.]

Forth rush the levant and the ponent winds.
Milton.


word: Levant₄
definition:
Levant

Le*vant"
(le̝*vănt")
v. i.
[Cf. Sp. levantar to raise, go from one place to another.]
To run away from one's debts; to decamp.
[Colloq. Eng.]
Thackeray.


word: Levanter
definition:
Levanter

Le*vant"er
(le̝*vănt"ẽr)
n.
[From Levant, v.]
One who levants, or decamps.
[Colloq. Eng.]


word: Levanter₂
definition:
Levanter

Le*vant"er
n.
[From Levant, n.]
A strong easterly wind peculiar to the Mediterranean.
W. H. Russell.


word: Levantine
definition:
Levantine

Le*vant"ine
(le̝*vănt"ĭn or lĕv"ant*īn; 277)
a.
[F. levantin, or It. levantino. See Levant, n.]
Of or pertaining to the Levant.
J. Spencer.


word: Levantine₂
definition:
Levantine

Le*vant"ine
n.
1.
A native or inhabitant of the Levant.

2.
[F. levantine, or It. levantina.]
A stout twilled silk fabric, formerly made in the Levant.


word: Levari facias
definition:
Levari facias

Le*va`ri fa"ci*as
(le̝*vā`ri̝ fā"shĭ*ăs)
n.
[Law L., cause to be levied.]
A writ of execution at common law.


word: Levation
definition:
Levation

Le*va"tion
(le̝*vā"shŭn)
n.
[L. levatio.]
The act of raising; elevation; upward motion, as that produced by the action of a levator muscle.


word: Levator
definition:
Levator

Le*va"tor
(le̝*vā"t&obreve_;r)
n.
[NL., fr. L. levare to raise. See Lever, n.]
1.
(Anat.)
A muscle that serves to raise some part, as the lip or the eyelid.

2.
(Surg.)
A surgical instrument used to raise a depressed part of the skull.


word: Leve₄
definition:
Leve

Leve
v. t.
[OE., fr. AS. lēfan, abbrev. fr. gelēfan. See Believe.]
To believe.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: Leve₅
definition:
Leve

Leve
v. t.
[OE. leven, AS. lēfan, l&ymacr_;fan. See Leave permission.]
To grant; -- used esp. in exclamations or prayers followed by a dependent clause.
[Obs.]

God leve all be well.
Chaucer.


word: Levee
definition:
Levee

Lev"ee
(lĕv"e̝; often lĕv*ē" in U. S.)
n.
[F. lever, fr. lever to raise, se lever to rise. See Lever, n.]
1.
The act of rising.
levee
Gray.

2.
A morning assembly or reception of visitors, -- in distinction from a soirée, or evening assembly; a matinée; hence, also, any general or somewhat miscellaneous gathering of guests, whether in the daytime or evening; as, the president's levee.

&hand_; In England a ceremonious day reception, when attended by both ladies and gentlemen, is called a drawing-room.


word: Levee₃
definition:
Levee

Lev"ee
n.
[F. levée, fr. lever to raise. See Lever, and cf. Levy.]
An embankment to prevent inundation; as, the levees along the Mississippi; sometimes, the steep bank of a river.
[U. S.]


word: Leveful
definition:
Leveful

Leve"ful
(lēv"f&usdot_;l)
a.
[Leve, n. + -ful.]
Allowable; permissible; lawful.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: Level
definition:
Level

Lev"el
(lĕv"ĕl)
n.
[OE. level, livel, OF. livel, F. niveau, fr. L. libella level, water level, a plumb level, dim. of libra pound, measure for liquids, balance, water poise, level. Cf. Librate, Libella.]
1.
A line or surface to which, at every point, a vertical or plumb line is perpendicular; a line or surface which is everywhere parallel to the surface of still water; -- this is the true level, and is a curve or surface in which all points are equally distant from the center of the earth, or rather would be so if the earth were an exact sphere.

2.
A horizontal line or plane; that is, a straight line or a plane which is tangent to a true level at a given point and hence parallel to the horizon at that point; -- this is the apparent level at the given point.

3.
An approximately horizontal line or surface at a certain degree of altitude, or distance from the center of the earth; as, to climb from the level of the coast to the level of the plateau and then descend to the level of the valley or of the sea.

After draining of the level in Northamptonshire.
Sir M. Hale.

Shot from the deadly level of a gun.
Shak.

4.
Hence, figuratively, a certain position, rank, standard, degree, quality, character, etc., conceived of as in one of several planes of different elevation.

Providence, for the most part, sets us on a level.
Addison.

Somebody there of his own level.
Swift.

Be the fair level of thy actions laid
As temperance wills and prudence may persuade.
Prior.

5.
A uniform or average height; a normal plane or altitude; a condition conformable to natural law or which will secure a level surface; as, moving fluids seek a level.

When merit shall find its level.
F. W. Robertson.

6.
(Mech. & Surv.)
(a)
An instrument by which to find a horizontal line, or adjust something with reference to a horizontal line.
(b)
A measurement of the difference of altitude of two points, by means of a level; as, to take a level.

7.
A horizontal passage, drift, or adit, in a mine.

Air level, a spirit level. See Spirit level (below). -- Box level, a spirit level in which a glass-covered box is used instead of a tube. -- Carpenter's level, Mason's level, either the plumb level or a straight bar of wood, in which is imbedded a small spirit level. -- Level of the sea, the imaginary level from which heights and depths are calculated, taken at a mean distance between high and low water. -- Line of levels, a connected series of measurements, by means of a level, along a given line, as of a railroad, to ascertain the profile of the ground. -- Plumb level, one in which a horizontal bar is placed in true position by means of a plumb line, to which it is at right angles. -- Spirit level, one in which the adjustment to the horizon is shown by the position of a bubble in alcohol or ether contained in a nearly horizontal glass tube, or a circular box with a glass cover. -- Surveyor's level, a telescope, with a spirit level attached, and with suitable screws, etc., for accurate adjustment, the whole mounted on a tripod, for use in leveling; -- called also leveling instrument. -- Water level, an instrument to show the level by means of the surface of water in a trough, or in upright tubes connected by a pipe.


word: Level₂
definition:
Level

Lev"el
(lĕv"ĕl)
a.
1.
Even; flat; having no part higher than another; having, or conforming to, the curvature which belongs to the undisturbed liquid parts of the earth's surface; as, a level field; level ground; the level surface of a pond or lake.

Ample spaces o'er the smooth
And level pavement.
Milton.

2.
Coinciding or parallel with the plane of the horizon; horizontal; as, the telescope is now level.

3.
Even with anything else; of the same height; on the same line or plane; on the same footing; of equal importance; -- followed by with, sometimes by to.

Young boys and girls
Are level now with men; the odds is gone.
Shak.

Everything lies level to our wish.
Shak.

4.
Straightforward; direct; clear; open.

A very plain and level account.
M. Arnold.

5.
Well balanced; even; just; steady; impartial; as, a level head; a level understanding. [Colloq.] 
level
Shak.

6.
(Phonetics)
Of even tone; without rising or falling inflection.
H. Sweet.

Level line (Shipbuilding), the outline of a section which is horizontal crosswise, and parallel with the rabbet of the keel lengthwise. -- Level surface (Physics), an equipotential surface at right angles at every point to the lines of force.


word: Level₃
definition:
Level

Lev"el
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Leveled (-ĕld) or Levelled; p. pr. & vb. n. Leveling or Levelling.]
1.
To make level; to make horizontal; to bring to the condition of a level line or surface; hence, to make flat or even; as, to level a road, a walk, or a garden.

2.
To bring to a lower level; to overthrow; to topple down; to reduce to a flat surface; to lower.

And their proud structures level with the ground.
Sandys.

He levels mountains and he raises plains.
Dryden.

3.
To bring to a horizontal position, as a gun; hence, to point in taking aim; to aim; to direct.

Bertram de Gordon, standing on the castle wall, leveled a quarrel out of a crossbow.
Stow.

4.
Figuratively, to bring to a common level or plane, in respect of rank, condition, character, privilege, etc.; as, to level all the ranks and conditions of men.

5.
To adjust or adapt to a certain level; as, to level remarks to the capacity of children.

For all his mind on honor fixed is,
To which he levels all his purposes.
Spenser.


word: Level₄
definition:
Level

Lev"el
v. i.
1.
To be level; to be on a level with, or on an equality with, something; hence, to accord; to agree; to suit.
[Obs.]

With such accommodation and besort
As levels with her breeding.
Shak.

2.
To aim a gun, spear, etc., horizontally; hence, to aim or point a weapon in direct line with the mark; fig., to direct the eye, mind, or effort, directly to an object; as, he leveled a gun at the bandit and fired.

The foeman may with as great aim level at the edge of a penknife.
Shak.

The glory of God and the good of his church . . . ought to be the mark whereat we also level.
Hooker.

She leveled at our purposes.
Shak.


word: Leveler
definition:
Leveler

Lev"el*er
(-ẽr)
n.
[Written also leveller.]
1.
One who, or that which, levels.

2.
One who would remove social inequalities or distinctions; a socialist.


word: levelheaded
definition:
levelheaded

lev"el*head"ed
a.
exercising or showing good judgment or common sense; sensible.

Syn. -- healthy, intelligent, sound.


word: Leveling
definition:
Leveling

Lev"el*ing
n.
[Written also levelling.]
1.
The act or operation of making level.

2.
(Surveying)
The art or operation of using a leveling instrument for finding a horizontal line, for ascertaining the differences of level between different points of the earth's surface included in a survey, for establishing grades, etc., as in finding the descent of a river, or locating a line of railroad.

Leveling instrument. See Surveyor's level, under Level, n. -- Leveling staff, a graduated rod or staff used in connection with a leveling instrument for measuring differences of level between points.


word: Levelism
definition:
Levelism

Lev"el*ism
(-ĭz'm)
n.
The disposition or endeavor to level all distinctions of rank in society.


word: Leven
definition:
Leven

Lev"en
(lĕv"en)
n.
[See Levin.]
Lightning.
[Obs.]

Wild thunder dint and fiery leven.
Chaucer.


word: Lever
definition:
Lever

Lev"er
(lē"vẽr)
a.
[Old compar. of leve or lief.]
More agreeable; more pleasing.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.

To be lever than. See Had as lief, under Had.


word: Lever₃
definition:
Lever

Le"ver
(lē"vẽr or lĕv"ẽr; 277)
n.
[OE. levour, OF. leveor, prop., a lifter, fr. F. lever to raise, L. levare; akin to levis light in weight, E. levity, and perh. to E. light not heavy: cf. F. levier. Cf. Alleviate, Elevate, Leaven, Legerdemain, Levee, Levy, n.]
1.
(Mech.)
A rigid piece which is capable of turning about one point, or axis (the fulcrum), and in which are two or more other points where forces are applied; -- used for transmitting and modifying force and motion. Specif., a bar of metal, wood, or other rigid substance, used to exert a pressure, or sustain a weight, at one point of its length, by receiving a force or power at a second, and turning at a third on a fixed point called a fulcrum. It is usually named as the first of the six mechanical powers, and is of three kinds, according as either the fulcrum F, the weight W, or the power P, respectively, is situated between the other two, as in the figures.

2.
(Mach.)
(a)
A bar, as a capstan bar, applied to a rotatory piece to turn it.
(b)
An arm on a rock shaft, to give motion to the shaft or to obtain motion from it.

Compound lever, a machine consisting of two or more levers acting upon each other. -- Lever escapement. See Escapement. -- Lever jack. See Jack, n., 5. -- Lever watch, a watch having a vibrating lever to connect the action of the escape wheel with that of the balance. -- Universal lever, a machine formed by a combination of a lever with the wheel and axle, in such a manner as to convert the reciprocating motion of the lever into a continued rectilinear motion of some body to which the power is applied.


word: Leverage
definition:
Leverage

Lev"er*age
(lĕv"ẽr*a̝j or lē"vẽr*a̝j)
n.
The action of a lever; mechanical advantage gained by the lever.

Leverage of a couple (Mech.), the perpendicular distance between the lines of action of two forces which act in parallel and opposite directions. -- Leverage of a force, the perpendicular distance from the line in which a force acts upon a body to a point about which the body may be supposed to turn.


word: Leveret
definition:
Leveret

Lev"er*et
(lĕv"ẽr*ĕt)
n.
[F. levraut, dim. of lièvre hare, L. lepus. Cf. Leporine.]
(Zool.)
A hare in the first year of its age.


word: Leverwood
definition:
Leverwood

Lev"er*wood`
(lĕv"ẽr*wŏd`)
n.
(Bot.)
The American hop hornbeam (Ostrya Virginica), a small tree with very tough wood.


word: Levesel
definition:
Levesel

Lev"e*sel
(lĕv"e̝*sĕl)
n.
[AS. leáf a leaf + sæl, sel, a room, a hall.]
A leafy shelter; a place covered with foliage.
[Obs.]

Behind the mill, under a levesel.
Chaucer.


word: Levet
definition:
Levet

Lev"et
(lĕv"ĕt)
n.
[Cf. F. lever to raise.]
A trumpet call for rousing soldiers; a reveille.
[Obs.]
Hudibras.


word: Leviable
definition:
Leviable

Lev"i*a*ble
(lĕv"ĭ*ȧ*b'l)
a.
[From Levy to assess.]
Fit to be levied; capable of being assessed and collected; as, sums leviable by course of law.
Bacon.


word: Leviathan
definition:
Leviathan

Le*vi"a*than
(le̝*vī"ȧ*than)
n.
[Heb. livyāthān.]

1.
An aquatic animal, described in the book of Job, ch. xli., and mentioned in other passages of Scripture.

&hand_; It is not certainly known what animal is intended, whether the crocodile, the whale, or some sort of serpent.

2.
The whale, or a great whale.
Milton.


word: Levigate
definition:
Levigate

Lev"i*gate
(-ga̝t)
a.
[L. levigatus, p. p. of levigare to lighten, fr. lĕvis light.]
Made less harsh or burdensome; alleviated.
[Obs.]
Sir T. Elyot.


word: Levigate₂
definition:
Levigate

Lev"i*gate
(-gāt)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Levigated (-gā`tĕd); p. pr. & vb. n. Levigating.]
[L. levigatus, p. p. of levigare to make smooth, fr. lēvis smooth; akin to Gr. lei^os.]
To make smooth in various senses
(a)
To free from grit; to reduce to an impalpable powder or paste.
(b)
To mix thoroughly, as liquids or semiliquids.
(c)
To polish.
(d)
To make smooth in action.
levigated
Barrow.
(e)
Technically, to make smooth by rubbing in a moist condition between hard surfaces, as in grinding pigments.


word: Levigation
definition:
Levigation

Lev`i*ga"tion
(lĕv`ĭ*gā"shŭn)
n.
[L. levigatio a smoothing: cf. F. lévigation.]
The act or operation of levigating.


word: Levin
definition:
Levin

Lev"in
(lĕv"ĭn)
n.
[Etymol. uncertain. Cf. Leven.]
Lightning.
[Obs.]
Spenser.

Levin brand, a thunderbolt. [Obs.] Spenser.


word: Leviratical
definition:
Leviratical

Levirate

{ Lev"i*rate (lĕv"ĭ*ra̝t), Lev`i*rat"ic*al (-răt"ĭ*kal), }
a.
[L. levir a husband's brother, brother-in-law; akin to Gr. dah`r: cf. F. lévirat leviration.]
Of, pertaining to, or in accordance with, a law of the ancient Israelites and other tribes and races, according to which a woman, whose husband died without issue, was married to the husband's brother.

The firstborn son of a leviratical marriage was reckoned and registered as the son of the deceased brother.
Alford.


word: Levirostres
definition:
Levirostres

Lev`i*ros"tres
(-r&obreve_;s"trēz)
n. pl.
[NL., fr. L. levis light + rostrum beak.]
(Zool.)
A group of birds, including the hornbills, kingfishers, and related forms.


word: Levitate
definition:
Levitate

Lev"i*tate
(lĕv"ĭ*tāt)
v. i.
[L. levitas, -atis, lightness. See Levity.]
To rise, or tend to rise, as if lighter than the surrounding medium; to become buoyant; -- opposed to gravitate.
Sir. J. Herschel.


word: Levitate₂
definition:
Levitate

Lev"i*tate
v. t.
(Spiritualism)
To make buoyant; to cause to float in the air; as, to levitate a table.
[Cant]


word: Levitation
definition:
Levitation

Lev`i*ta"tion
(-tā"shŭn)
n.
[L. levis light in weight.]

1.
Lightness; buoyancy; act of making light.
Paley.

2.
The act or process of making buoyant.


word: Levite
definition:
Levite

Le"vite
(lē"vīt)
n.
[L. Levites, Gr. Leyi:`ths, fr. Heb. Levi, one of the sons of Jacob.]
1.
(Bib. Hist.)
One of the tribe or family of Levi; a descendant of Levi; esp., one subordinate to the priests (who were of the same tribe) and employed in various duties connected with the tabernacle first, and afterward the temple, such as the care of the building, bringing of wood and other necessaries for the sacrifices, the music of the services, etc.

2.
A priest; -- so called in contempt or ridicule.


word: Levitical
definition:
Levitical

Le*vit"ic*al
(le̝*vĭt"ĭ*kal)
a.
[L. Leviticus, Gr. Leyitiko`s.]
1.
Of or pertaining to a Levite or the Levites.

2.
Priestly.
Levitical
Milton.

3.
Of or pertaining to, or designating, the law contained in the book of Leviticus.
Ayliffe.

Levitical degrees, degrees of relationship named in Leviticus, within which marriage is forbidden.


word: Levitically
definition:
Levitically

Le*vit"ic*al*ly
adv.
After the manner of the Levites; in accordance with the levitical law.


word: Leviticus
definition:
Leviticus

Le*vit"i*cus
(-ĭ*kŭs)
n.
[See Levitical.]
The third canonical book of the Old Testament, containing the laws and regulations relating to the priests and Levites among the Hebrews, or the body of the ceremonial law.


word: Levity
definition:
Levity

Lev"i*ty
(lĕv"ĭ*t&ybreve_;)
n.
[L. levitas, fr. levis light in weight; akin to levare to raise. See Lever, n.]
1.
The quality of weighing less than something else of equal bulk; relative lightness, especially as shown by rising through, or floating upon, a contiguous substance; buoyancy; -- opposed to gravity.

He gave the form of levity to that which ascended; to that which descended, the form of gravity.
Sir. W. Raleigh.

This bubble by reason of its comparative levity to the fluidity that incloses it, would ascend to the top.
Bentley.

2.
Lack of gravity and earnestness in deportment or character; trifling gayety; frivolity; sportiveness; vanity.
levity
Atterbury.

He never employed his omnipotence out of levity.
Calamy.

3.
Lack of steadiness or constancy; disposition to change; fickleness; volatility.

The levity that is fatigued and disgusted with everything of which it is in possession.
Burke.


word: Levo-
definition:
Levo-

Le"vo-
(lē"vo̝-)
pref.
A prefix from L. laevus
(a)
Pertaining to, or toward, the left; as, levorotatory.
(b)
(Chem. & Opt.)
Turning the plane of polarized light to the left; as, levotartaric acid; levoracemic acid; levogyratory crystals, etc.
[Written also lævo-.]


word: levodopa
definition:
levodopa

le`vo*do"pa
(lē`vo̝*d&omacr"pȧ)
a.
[Levo- + DOPA, dihydroxyphenylalanine.]
(Chem. & Biochem.)
A substance used as a therapy for Parkinson's Disease; the L form of Dopa; L-dihydroxyphenylalanine; L-hydroxytyrosine (C9H11NO4); also called L-dopa.  In the body it is converted by the enzyme dopa-decarboxylase into dopamine, the form in which it is active in the brain, affecting neural impulse transmission.


word: Levogyrate
definition:
Levogyrate

Le`vo*gy"rate
(-jī"ra̝t)
a.
[Levo- + gyrate.]
(Chem., Physics, Biochem.)
Turning or twisting the plane of polarization of light towards the left, as levulose, levotartaric acid, etc.; levorotatory.
[Written also lævogyrate.]


word: levorotary
definition:
levorotary

le`vo*ro"ta*ry
(-r&omacr"tȧ*r&ybreve_;)
a.
[Levo- + rotary.]
(Chem. & Physics)
Same as levorotatory.


word: Levorotation
definition:
Levorotation

Le`vo*ro*ta"tion
(?)
n.
[Written also lævorotation.]
[Levo- + rotation.]
(Physics & Chem.)
Rotation in the direction of an outgoing right-handed screw; counter-clockwise rotation; -- applied chiefly to the turning of the plane of polarization of light.


word: Levorotatory
definition:
Levorotatory

Le`vo*ro"ta*to*ry
(-r&omacr"tȧ*to̝*r&ybreve_;)
a.
[Levo- + rotatory.]
(Chem. & Physics)
Turning or rotating the plane of polarization of light towards the left; -- applied to crystals and compounds exhibiting optical activity, such as levulose, left-handed quartz crystals, etc.  Opposite of dextrorotatory.
[Written also lævorotatory.]


word: Levulin
definition:
Levulin

Lev"u*lin
(lĕv"&uuptack_;*lĭn)
n.
(Chem.)
A substance resembling dextrin, obtained from the bulbs of the dahlia, the artichoke, and other sources, as a colorless, spongy, amorphous material. It is so called because by decomposition it yields levulose.
[Written also lævulin.]


word: Levulinic
definition:
Levulinic

Lev`u*lin"ic
(-lĭn"ĭk)
a.
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or denoting, an acid (called also acetyl-propionic acid), C5H8O3, obtained by the action of dilute acids on various sugars (as levulose).
[Written also laevulinic.]


word: Levulosan
definition:
Levulosan

Lev`u*lo"san
(-l&omacr"san)
n.
(Chem.)
An unfermentable carbohydrate obtained by gently heating levulose.


word: Levulose
definition:
Levulose

Lev"u*lose`
(lĕv"&uuptack_;*l&omacrs`)
n.
[See Levo-.]
(Chem.)
A sirupy variety of sugar, rarely obtained crystallized, occurring widely in honey, ripe fruits, etc., and hence called also fruit sugar; also called fructose.  Chemical formula: C6H12O6.  It is called levulose, because it rotates the plane of polarization of light to the left, in contrast to dextrose, the other product of the hydrolysis of sucrose.
[Written also laevulose.]

&hand_; It is obtained, together with an equal quantity of dextrose, by the inversion of ordinary cane or beet sugar, and hence, as being an ingredient of invert sugar, is often so called.  It is fermentable, nearly as sweet as cane sugar, and is metameric with dextrose.  Cf. Dextrose.


word: Levy
definition:
Levy

Lev"y
(-&ybreve_;)
n.
pl. Levies (-ĭz).
[A contr. of elevenpence or elevenpenny bit.]
A name formerly given in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia to the Spanish real of one eighth of a dollar (or 121/2 cents), valued at eleven pence when the dollar was rated at 7s. 6d.


word: Levy₂
definition:
Levy

Lev"y
n.
[F. levée, fr. lever to raise. See Lever, and cf. Levee.]
1.
The act of levying or collecting by authority; as, the levy of troops, taxes, etc.

A levy of all the men left under sixty.
Thirlwall.

2.
That which is levied, as an army, force, tribute, etc.
levies
Macaulay.

3.
(Law)
The taking or seizure of property on executions to satisfy judgments, or on warrants for the collection of taxes; a collecting by execution.

Levy in mass [F. levée en masse], a requisition of all able-bodied men for military service.


word: Levy₃
definition:
Levy

Lev"y
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Levied (lĕv"ĭd); p. pr. & vb. n. Levying.]
1.
To raise, as a siege.
[Obs.]
Holland.

2.
To raise; to collect; said of troops, to form into an army by enrollment, conscription, etc.

Augustine . . . inflamed Ethelbert, king of Kent, to levy his power, and to war against them.
Fuller.

3.
To raise or collect by assessment; to exact by authority; as, to levy taxes, toll, tribute, or contributions.

If they do this . . . my ransom, then,
Will soon be levied.
Shak.

4.
(Law)
(a)
To gather or exact; as, to levy money.
(b)
To erect, build, or set up; to make or construct; to raise or cast up; as, to levy a mill, dike, ditch, a nuisance, etc.
[Obs.]
Cowell.
Blackstone.
(c)
To take or seize on execution; to collect by execution.

To levy a fine, to commence and carry on a suit for assuring the title to lands or tenements. Blackstone. -- To levy war, to make or begin war; to take arms for attack; to attack.


word: Levy₄
definition:
Levy

Lev"y
v. i.
To seize property, real or personal, or subject it to the operation of an execution; to make a levy; as, to levy on property; the usual mode of levying, in England, is by seizing the goods.

To levy on goods and chattels, to take into custody or seize specific property in satisfaction of a writ.


word: Levynite
definition:
Levynite

Levyne

{ Lev"yne (lĕv"ĭn), Lev"yn*ite (-ĭn*īt), }
n.
[From Mr. Levy, an English mineralogist.]
(Min.)
A whitish, reddish, or yellowish, transparent or translucent mineral, allied to chabazite.


word: Lewd
definition:
Lewd

Lewd
(lūd)
a.
[Compar. Lewder (-ẽr); superl. Lewdest.]
[OE. lewed, lewd, lay, ignorant, vile, AS. l&aemacr_;wed laical, belonging to the laity.]
1.
Not clerical; laic; laical; hence, unlearned; simple.
[Obs.]

For if a priest be foul, on whom we trust,
No wonder is a lewed man to rust.
Chaucer.

So these great clerks their little wisdom show
To mock the lewd, as learn'd in this as they.
Sir. J. Davies.

2.
Belonging to the lower classes, or the rabble; idle and lawless; bad; vicious.
[Archaic]
Chaucer.

But the Jews, which believed not, . . . took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, . . . and assaulted the house of Jason.
Acts xvii. 5.

Too lewd to work, and ready for any kind of mischief.
Southey.

3.
Given to the promiscuous indulgence of lust; dissolute; lustful; libidinous.
Dryden.

4.
Suiting, or proceeding from, lustfulness; involving unlawful sexual desire; as, lewd thoughts, conduct, or language.


word: Lewisson
definition:
Lewisson

Lewis

{ Lew"is (lū"ĭs), Lew"is*son (-sŭn), }
n.
1.
An iron dovetailed tenon, made in sections, which can be fitted into a dovetail mortise; -- used in hoisting large stones, etc.

2.
A kind of shears used in cropping woolen cloth.

Lewis hole, a hole wider at the bottom than at the mouth, into which a lewis is fitted. De Foe.


word: Lex
definition:
Lex

Lex
(lĕks)
n.
pl. Leges (lē"jēz).
[L. See Legal.]
Law; as, lex talionis, the law of retaliation; lex terræ, the law of the land; lex fori, the law of the forum or court; lex loci, the law of the place; lex mercatoria, the law or custom of merchants.


word: lexical
definition:
lexical

lex"ic*al
(lĕks"ĭ*kal)
a.
Of or pertaining to a lexicon, to lexicography, or words; according or conforming to a lexicon.
Lex"ic*al*ly, adv.


word: lexicalize
definition:
lexicalize

lex"i*cal*ize
(lĕks"ĭ*kal*īz)
v. t.
1.
To make into a word, coin into a word; as, The concept expressed by German "Gemuetlichkeit" is not lexicalized in English.

2.
To increase the importance of, or emphasis on, words as opposed to other parts of a theory or program; -- said of grammatical theories and computer programs, especially programs for understanding language; as, lexicalized tree-adjoining grammar.


word: Lexicographer
definition:
Lexicographer

Lex`i*cog"ra*pher
(lĕks`ĭ*k&obreve_;g"rȧ*fẽr)
n.
[Gr. lexikogra`fos; lexiko`n dictionary + gra`fein to write: cf. F. lexicographe. See Lexicon.]
The author or compiler of a lexicon or dictionary.

Every other author may aspire to praise; the lexicographer can only hope to escape reproach; and even this negative recompense has been yet granted to very few.
Johnson.


word: Lexicographical
definition:
Lexicographical

Lexicographic

{ Lex`i*co*graph"ic (lĕks`ĭ*ko̝*grăf"ĭk), Lex`i*co*graph"ic*al (lĕks`ĭ*ko̝*grăf"ĭ*kal), }
a.
[Cf. F. lexicographique.]
Of or pertaining to, or according to, lexicography.
Lex`i*co*graph"ic*al*ly, adv.


word: Lexicography
definition:
Lexicography

Lex`i*cog"ra*phy
(lĕks`ĭ*k&obreve_;g"rȧ*f&ybreve_;)
n.
[Cf. F. lexicographie.]
The art, process, or occupation of making a lexicon or dictionary; the principles which are applied in making dictionaries; as, with so many words lexicography can be interesting in parts but at length is rather tedious labor.


word: Lexicology
definition:
Lexicology

Lex`i*col"o*gy
(lĕks`ĭ*k&obreve_;l"o̝*j&ybreve_;)
n.
[Gr. lexiko`n lexicon + -logy: cf. F. lexicologie.]
The science of the derivation and signification of words; that branch of learning which treats of the signification and application of words.


word: Lexicon
definition:
Lexicon

Lex"i*con
(lĕks"ĭ*k&obreve_;n)
n.
[Gr. lexiko`n (sc. bibli`on), neut. of lexiko`s of or belonging to words, fr. le`xis a speaking, speech, a way of speaking, a single word or phrase, fr. le`gein to say, to speak. See Legend.]
A vocabulary, or book containing an alphabetical arrangement of the words in a language or of a considerable number of them, with the definition of each; a dictionary; especially, a dictionary of the Greek, Hebrew, or Latin language.


word: Lexigraphic
definition:
Lexigraphic

Lex`i*graph"ic
(lĕks"ĭ*grăf"ĭk)
a.
[Cf. F. lexigraphique.]
Of or pertaining to lexigraphy.


word: Lexigraphy
definition:
Lexigraphy

Lex*ig"ra*phy
(lĕks*ĭg"rȧ*f&ybreve_;)
n.
[Gr. le`xis word + -graphy: cf. F. lexigraphie.]
The art or practice of defining words; definition of words.


word: Lexiphanic
definition:
Lexiphanic

Lex`i*phan"ic
(lĕks`ĭ*făn"ĭk)
a.
[Gr. lexifa`nis a phrase monger; le`xis speech + fai`nein to show.]
Using, or interlarded with, pretentious words; bombastic; as, a lexiphanic writer or speaker; lexiphanic writing.


word: Lexiphanicism
definition:
Lexiphanicism

Lex`i*phan"i*cism
(lĕks`ĭ*făn"ĭ*sĭz'm)
n.
The use of pretentious words, language, or style.


word: Leyden phial
definition:
Leyden phial

Leyden jar

{ Ley"den jar" (lī"d'n jär"; 277) Ley"den phi"al (fī"al).}
n.
(Elec.)
A glass jar or bottle used to accumulate electricity.  It is coated with tin foil, within and without, nearly to its top, and is surmounted by a brass knob which communicates with the inner coating, for the purpose of charging it with electricity. It is so named from having been invented in Leyden, Holland.


word: Leymus
definition:
Leymus

Leymus
prop. n.
A genus that in some classifications overlaps the genus Elymus.

Syn. -- genus Leymus.


word: Leyte
definition:
Leyte

Leyte
prop. n.
The name of an island in the Pacific Ocean and of a battle in World War II, at which the American forces experienced the first use of Kamikaze aircraft by the Japanese.  The return of U. S. troops to the Philippines after their expulsion by the Japanese began with landings on Leyte Island in October 1944.

Syn. -- Leyte Island, Leyte invasion, Battle of Leyte Gulf.


word: Lese majesty
definition:
Lese majesty

Leze majesty

Lese` maj"es*ty, Leze` maj"es*ty
(lēz` măj"ĕs*t&ybreve_;)
n.
[F. lese-majesté, fr. L. laesus, fem. laesa, injured (see Lesion) + majestas majesty; that is, crimen laesae majestatis.]
[Written also lèse majesty.]
1.
(Law)
Any crime committed against the sovereign power, or against a ruler.

2.
Any affront to the dignity of an eminent or respected person.

3.
An attack against an institution or custom revered by the majority in a society.


word: LF
definition:
LF

LF
n.
(Electronics)
Low frequency, a term used to refer to radio waves of a frequency from 30 to 300 kilohertz.  Contrasted to HF, high frequency.
[Acronym]

Syn. -- low frequency.


word: LH
definition:
LH

LH
n.
(Biochem.)
An abbreviation for luteinizing hormone, a gonadotropic hormone that is secreted by the pituitary and stimulates ovulation in female mammals, and stimulates androgen release in male mammals.
[Acronym]

Syn. -- luteinizing hormone, interstitial cell-stimulating hormone.


word: Lhasa
definition:
Lhasa

Lhasa
n.
The capital city of Tibet; it is the sacred city of Lamaism.

Syn. -- Lassa, Lasa, capital of Tibet.

2.
A breed of terrier having a long heavy coat raised in Tibet as watchdogs; also called Lhasa apso.

Syn. -- Lhasa apso.


word: Lherzolite
definition:
Lherzolite

Lher"zo*lite
(lẽr"zo̝*līt)
n.
[From Lherz, a place in the Pyrenees + -lite.]
(Min.)
An igneous rock consisting largely of chrysolite, with pyroxene and picotite (a variety of spinel containing chromium).


word: Li
definition:
Li

Li
(lē)
n.
1.
A Chinese measure of distance, being a little more than one third of a mile.

2.
A Chinese copper coin; a cash. See Cash.


word: Liability
definition:
Liability

Li`a*bil"i*ty
(lī`ȧ*bĭl"ĭ*t&ybreve_;)
n.
pl. Liabilities (-tĭz).

1.
The state of being liable; as, the liability of an insurer; liability to accidents; liability to the law.

2.
That which one is under obligation to pay, or for which one is liable.
pl.
the sum of one's pecuniary obligations; -- opposed to assets.

Limited liability. See Limited company, under Limited.


word: Liable
definition:
Liable

Li"a*ble
(lī"ȧ*b'l)
a.
[From F. lier to bind, L. ligare.  Cf. Ally, v. t., Ligature.]
1.
Bound or obliged in law or equity; responsible; answerable; as, the surety is liable for the debt of his principal.

2.
Exposed to a certain contingency or casualty, more or less probable; -- with to and an infinitive or noun; as, liable to slip; liable to accident.

Proudly secure, yet liable to fall.
Milton.

All human things are subject to decay.
Dryden.


word: liaise
definition:
liaise

li*aise"
(lē*āz")
v. i.
[By back-formation from liaison.]
1.
To form or maintain a liaison{3}.

2.
To act as a liaison{4}.


word: liaison
definition:
liaison

li`ai`son"
(le̝`a̝`zôN")
n.
[F., fr. L. ligatio, fr. ligare to bind. See Ligature, and cf. Ligation.]
1.
A union, or bond of union; an intimacy; an interrelationship.

2.
Specifically,
An illicit sexual relation between a man and a woman; a sexual afffair.

3.
Specifically
A process of communication between parts of an organization or between two organizations acting together for a common purpose.

4.
Hence:
A person whose function it is to maintain such communication.

5.
(Phonetics)
A pronunciation of a consonant sound that would be otherwise silent, such as the final consonant of certain French words, when the following word begins with a vowel sound.


word: Liana
definition:
Liana

Liane

{ Li*ane" (li̝*ān"), Li*a"na (li̝*ā"nȧ), }
n.
[F. liane; prob. akin to lien a band, fr. L. ligamen, fr. ligare to bind.  Cf. Lien, n. ]
(Bot.)
A luxuriant woody plant, climbing high trees and having ropelike stems. The grapevine often has the habit of a liane. Lianes are abundant in the forests of the Amazon region.


word: Liar
definition:
Liar

Li"ar
(lī"ẽr)
n.
[OE. liere. See Lie to falsify.]
A person who knowingly utters falsehood; one who lies.


word: Liard
definition:
Liard

Li"ard
(lī"ẽrd)
a.
[OF. liart, LL. liardus gray, dapple.]
Gray.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.

&hand_; Used by Chaucer as an epithet of a gray or dapple gray horse. Also used as a name for such a horse.


word: Lias
definition:
Lias

Li"as
(lī"as)
n.
[Cf. F. lias, fr. liais sort of limestone, OF. also liois; perh. of Celtic origin, cf. Armor. liach, leach, a stone, Gael. leac, W. llech.  Cf. Cromlech.]
(Geol.)
The lowest of the three divisions of the Jurassic period; a name given in England and Europe to a series of marine limestones underlying the Oölite. See the Chart of Geology.


word: Liassic
definition:
Liassic

Li*as"sic
(li̝*ăs"sĭk)
a.
(Geol.)
Of the age of the Lias; pertaining to the Lias formation.
n. Same as Lias.


word: Libant
definition:
Libant

Li"bant
(lī"bant)
a.
[L. libans, p. pr. of libare to taste, touch.]
Sipping; touching lightly.
[R.]
Landor.


word: Libation
definition:
Libation

Li*ba"tion
(li̝*bā"shŭn)
n.
[L. libatio, fr. libare to take a little from anything, to taste, to pour out as an offering: cf. F. libation.]
The act of pouring a liquid or liquor, usually wine, either on the ground or on a victim in sacrifice, in honor of some deity; also, the wine or liquid thus poured out.
Dryden.

A heathen sacrifice or libation to the earth.
Bacon.


word: Libel
definition:
Libel

Li"bel
(lī"bĕl)
n.
[L. libellus a little book, pamphlet, libel, lampoon, dim. of liber the liber or inner bark of a tree; also (because the ancients wrote on this bark), paper, parchment, or a roll of any material used to write upon, and hence, a book or treatise: cf. F. libelle.]

1.
A brief writing of any kind, esp. a declaration, bill, certificate, request, supplication, etc.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.

A libel of forsaking [divorcement].
Wyclif (Matt. v. 31).

2.
Any defamatory writing; a lampoon; a satire.

3.
(Law)
A malicious publication expressed either in print or in writing, or by pictures, effigies, or other signs, tending to expose another to public hatred, contempt, or ridicule. Such publication is indictable at common law.

&hand_; The term, in a more extended sense, includes the publication of such writings, pictures, and the like, as are of a blasphemous, treasonable, seditious, or obscene character. These also are indictable at common law.

4.
(Law)
The crime of issuing a malicious defamatory publication.

5.
(Civil Law & Courts of Admiralty)
A written declaration or statement by the plaintiff of his cause of action, and of the relief he seeks.


word: Libel₂
definition:
Libel

Li"bel
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Libeled (-bĕld) or Libelled; p. pr. & vb. n. Libeling or Libelling.]
1.
To defame, or expose to public hatred, contempt, or ridicule, by a writing, picture, sign, etc.; to lampoon.

Some wicked wits have libeled all the fair.
Pope.

2.
(Law)
To proceed against by filing a libel, particularly against a ship or goods.


word: Libel₃
definition:
Libel

Li"bel
(lī"bĕl)
v. i.
To spread defamation, written or printed; -- with against.
[Obs.]

What's this but libeling against the senate?
Shak.

[He] libels now 'gainst each great man.
Donne.


word: Libelant
definition:
Libelant

Li"bel*ant
(-ant)
n.
One who libels; one who institutes a suit in an ecclesiastical or admiralty court.
[Written also libellant.]
Cranch.


word: Li bella
definition:
Li bella

Li *bel"la
(li̝*bĕl"lȧ)
n.
[L., dim. of libra balance. See Level, n.]
1.
A small balance.

2.
A level, or leveling instrument.


word: Libellee
definition:
Libellee

Li`bel*lee"
(?)
n.
(Law)
(a)
The party against whom a libel has been filed; -- corresponding to defendant in a common law action.
(b)
The defendant in an action of libel.


word: libellulid
definition:
libellulid

li*bel"lu*lid
(li̝*bĕl"l&uuptack_;*lĭd)
n.
(Zool.)
A dragon fly; -- from Libellula, the name of the typical genus.


word: libelluloid
definition:
libelluloid

li*bel"lu*loid
(li̝*bĕl"l&uuptack_;*loid)
a.
[NL. Libellula, the name of the typical genus + -oid.]
(Zool.)
Like or pertaining to the dragon flies.


word: Libelous
definition:
Libelous

Li"bel*ous
(lī"bĕl*ŭs)
a.
Containing or involving a libel; defamatory; containing that which exposes some person to public hatred, contempt, or ridicule; as, a libelous pamphlet.
[Written also libellous.]
Li"bel*ous*ly, adv.


word: Liber
definition:
Liber

Li"ber
(lī"bẽr)
n.
[L. See Libel.]
(Bot.)
The inner bark of plants, lying next to the wood. It usually contains a large proportion of woody, fibrous cells, and is, therefore, the part from which the fiber of the plant is obtained, as that of hemp, etc.

Liber cells, elongated woody cells found in the liber.


word: Liberal
definition:
Liberal

Lib"er*al
(lĭb"ẽr*al)
a.
[F. libéral, L. liberalis, from liber free; perh. akin to libet, lubet, it pleases, E. lief.  Cf. Deliver.]
1.
Free by birth; hence, befitting a freeman or gentleman; refined; noble; independent; free; not servile or mean; as, a liberal ancestry; a liberal spirit; liberal arts or studies.
Liberal
Macaulay.
liberal
Shak.

2.
Bestowing in a large and noble way, as a freeman; generous; bounteous; open-handed; as, a liberal giver.
Liberal
Bacon.

Infinitely good, and of his good
As liberal and free as infinite.
Milton.

3.
Bestowed in a large way; hence, more than sufficient; abundant; bountiful; ample; profuse; as, a liberal gift; a liberal discharge of matter or of water.

His wealth doth warrant a liberal dower.
Shak.

4.
Not strict or rigorous; not confined or restricted to the literal sense; free; as, a liberal translation of a classic, or a liberal construction of law or of language.

5.
Not narrow or contracted in mind; not selfish; enlarged in spirit; catholic.

6.
Free to excess; regardless of law or moral restraint; licentious.
liberal
Shak.

7.
Not bound by orthodox tenets or established forms in political or religious philosophy; independent in opinion; not conservative; friendly to great freedom in the constitution or administration of government; having tendency toward democratic or republican, as distinguished from monarchical or aristocratic, forms; as, liberal thinkers; liberal Christians; the Liberal party.

I confess I see nothing liberal in this “ order of thoughts,” as Hobbes elsewhere expresses it.
Hazlitt.

&hand_; Liberal has of, sometimes with, before the thing bestowed, in before a word signifying action, and to before a person or object on which anything is bestowed; as, to be liberal of  praise or censure; liberal with money; liberal in giving; liberal to the poor.

The liberal arts. See under Art. -- Liberal education, education that enlarges and disciplines the mind and makes it master of its own powers, irrespective of the particular business or profession one may follow.


word: Liberal₂
definition:
Liberal

Lib"er*al
n.
One who favors greater freedom in political or religious matters; an opponent of the established systems; a reformer; in English politics, a member of the Liberal party, so called.  Cf. Whig.


word: Liberalism
definition:
Liberalism

Lib"er*al*ism
(-ĭz'm)
n.
[Cf. F. libéralisme.]
Liberal principles; the principles and methods of the liberals in politics or religion; specifically, the principles of the Liberal party.


word: Liberalistic
definition:
Liberalistic

Lib`er*al*is"tic
(-ĭs"tĭk)
a.
Pertaining to, or characterized by, liberalism; as, liberalistic opinions.


word: Liberality
definition:
Liberality

Lib`er*al"i*ty
(-ăl"ĭ*t&ybreve_;)
n.
pl. Liberalities (-tĭz).
[L. liberalitas: cf. F. libéralité.]
1.
The quality or state of being liberal; liberal disposition or practice; freedom from narrowness or prejudice; generosity; candor; charity.

That liberality is but cast away
Which makes us borrow what we can not pay.
Denham.

2.
A gift; a gratuity; -- sometimes in the plural; as, a prudent man is not impoverished by his liberalities.


word: Liberalization
definition:
Liberalization

Lib`er*al*i*za"tion
(-al*ĭ*zā"shŭn)
n.
The act of liberalizing; the act of making less strict.

Syn. -- liberalization, relaxation.


word: Liberalize
definition:
Liberalize

Lib"er*al*ize
(lĭb"ẽr*al*īz)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Liberalized (-īzd); p. pr. & vb. n. Liberalizing (-ī`zĭng).]
[Cf. F. libéraliser.]
To make liberal; to free from narrow views or prejudices; to make less strict.

To open and to liberalize the mind.
Burke.


word: Liberate
definition:
Liberate

Lib"er*ate
(-āt)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Liberated (-ā`tĕd); p. pr. & vb. n. Liberating (-ā`tĭng).]
[L. liberatus, p. p. of liberare to free, fr. liber free. See Liberal, a., and cf. Deliver.]
To release from restraint or bondage; to set at liberty; to free; to manumit; to disengage; as, to liberate a slave or prisoner; to liberate the mind from prejudice; to liberate gases.


word: liberated
definition:
liberated

liberated
adj.
(Chem.)
1.
released from chemical combination, or as a consequence of chemical reaction; -- of a gas.

2.
freed from bondage; -- of people.

Syn. -- emancipated, freed.

3.
free from traditional social restraints; as, a liberated lifestyle.

Syn. -- emancipated.

4.
stolen.
[jocose]


word: liberating
definition:
liberating

liberating
adj.
giving freedom from restriction or restraint.

Syn. -- emancipating, emancipative, freeing.


word: Liberation
definition:
Liberation

Lib`er*a"tion
(lĭb`ẽr*ā"shŭn)
n.
[L. liberatio: cf. F. libération.  Cf. Livraison.]
The act of liberating or the state of being liberated.

This mode of analysis requires perfect liberation from all prejudged system.
Pownall.


word: Liberian
definition:
Liberian

Liberian
adj.
Of or pertaining to Liberia; as, Liberian ship owners; a ship of Liberian registry.

2.
of or pertaining to the inhabitants of Liberia; as, Liberian rebels.


word: Libertarian
definition:
Libertarian

Lib`er*ta"ri*an
(-tā"rĭ*an)
a.
[See Liberty.]
Pertaining to liberty, or to the doctrine of free will, as opposed to the doctrine of necessity.


word: Liberticide
definition:
Liberticide

Lib"er*ti*cide
(lĭb"ẽr*tĭ*sīd)
n.
[L. libertas liberty + caedere to kill: cf. (for sense 2) F. liberticide.]
1.
The destruction of civil liberty.

2.
A destroyer of civil liberty.
B. F. Wade.


word: Libertinage
definition:
Libertinage

Lib"er*tin*age
(-tĭn*a̝j)
n.
[Cf. F. libertinage. See Libertine.]
Libertinism; license.
[R.]


word: Libertine
definition:
Libertine

Lib"er*tine
(-tĭn)
n.
[L. libertinus freedman, from libertus one made free, fr. liber free: cf. F. libertin. See Liberal.]
1.
(Rom. Antiq.)
A manumitted slave; a freedman; also, the son of a freedman.

2.
(Eccl. Hist.)
One of a sect of Anabaptists, in the fifteenth and early part of the sixteenth century, who rejected many of the customs and decencies of life, and advocated a community of goods and of women.

3.
One free from restraint; one who acts according to his impulses and desires; now, specifically, one who gives rein to lust; a rake; a debauchee.

Like a puffed and reckless libertine,
Himself the primrose path of dalliance treads.
Shak.

4.
A defamatory name for a freethinker.
[Obsolescent]


word: Libertine₂
definition:
Libertine

Lib"er*tine
a.
[L. libertinus of a freedman: cf. F. libertin. See Libertine, n. ]
1.
Free from restraint; uncontrolled.
[Obs.]

You are too much libertine.
Beau. & Fl.

2.
Dissolute; licentious; profligate; loose in morals; as, libertine principles or manners.
Bacon.


word: Libertinism
definition:
Libertinism

Lib"er*tin*ism
(-tĭn*ĭz'm)
n.
1.
The state of a libertine or freedman.
[R.]
Hammond.

2.
Licentious conduct; debauchery; lewdness.

3.
Licentiousness of principle or opinion.

That spirit of religion and seriousness vanished all at once, and a spirit of liberty and libertinism, of infidelity and profaneness, started up in the room of it.
Atterbury.


word: Liberty
definition:
Liberty

Lib"er*ty
(lĭb"ẽr*t&ybreve_;)
n.
pl. Liberties (-tĭz).
[OE. liberte, F. liberté, fr. L. libertas, fr. liber free. See Liberal.]
1.
The state of a free person; exemption from subjection to the will of another claiming ownership of the person or services; freedom; -- opposed to slavery, serfdom, bondage, or subjection.

But ye . . . caused every man his servant, and every man his handmaid whom he had set at liberty at their pleasure, to return, and brought them into subjection.
Jer. xxxiv. 16.

Delivered fro the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the sons of God.
Bible, 1551. Rom. viii. 21.

2.
Freedom from imprisonment, bonds, or other restraint upon locomotion.

Being pent from liberty, as I am now.
Shak.

3.
A privilege conferred by a superior power; permission granted; leave; as, liberty given to a child to play, or to a witness to leave a court, and the like.

4.
Privilege; exemption; franchise; immunity enjoyed by prescription or by grant; as, the liberties of the commercial cities of Europe.

His majesty gave not an entire county to any; much less did he grant . . . any extraordinary liberties.
Sir J. Davies.

5.
The place within which certain immunities are enjoyed, or jurisdiction is exercised.
[Eng.]

Brought forth into some public or open place within the liberty of the city, and there . . . burned.
Fuller.

6.
A certain amount of freedom; permission to go freely within certain limits; also, the place or limits within which such freedom is exercised; as, the liberties of a prison.

7.
A privilege or license in violation of the laws of etiquette or propriety; as, to permit, or take, a liberty.

He was repeatedly provoked into striking those who had taken liberties with him.
Macaulay.

8.
The power of choice; freedom from necessity; freedom from compulsion or constraint in willing.

The idea of liberty is the idea of a power in any agent to do or forbear any particular action, according to the determination or thought of the mind, whereby either of them is preferred to the other.
Locke.

This liberty of judgment did not of necessity lead to lawlessness.
J. A. Symonds.

9.
(Manege)
A curve or arch in a bit to afford room for the tongue of the horse.

10.
(Naut.)
Leave of absence; permission to go on shore.

At liberty. (a) Unconfined; free. (b) At leisure. -- Civil liberty, exemption from arbitrary interference with person, opinion, or property, on the part of the government under which one lives, and freedom to take part in modifying that government or its laws. -- Liberty bell. See under Bell. -- Liberty cap. (a) The Roman pileus which was given to a slave at his manumission. (b) A limp, close-fitting cap with which the head of representations of the goddess of liberty is often decked. It is sometimes represented on a spear or a liberty pole. -- Liberty of the press, freedom to print and publish without official supervision. Liberty party, the party, in the American Revolution, which favored independence of England; in more recent usage, a party which favored the emancipation of the slaves. -- Liberty pole, a tall flagstaff planted in the ground, often surmounted by a liberty cap. [U. S.] -- Moral liberty, that liberty of choice which is essential to moral responsibility. -- Religious liberty, freedom of religious opinion and worship.


word: Libethenite
definition:
Libethenite

Li*beth"en*ite
(lĭ*bĕth"ĕn*īt)
n.
[From Libethen, in Hungary, where it was first found.]
(Min.)
A mineral of an olive-green color, commonly in orthorhombic crystals. It is a hydrous phosphate of copper.


word: libidinal
definition:
libidinal

libidinal
adj.
Of or pertaining to the libido; caused by libido; as, libidinal gratification; libidinal impulses.


word: Libidinosity
definition:
Libidinosity

Li*bid`i*nos"i*ty
(-n&obreve_;s"ĭ*t&ybreve_;)
n.
The state or quality of being libidinous; libidinousness.
Skelton.


word: Libidinous
definition:
Libidinous

Li*bid"i*nous
(-nŭs)
a.
[L. libidinosus, fr. libido, libidinis, pleasure, desire, lust, fr. libet, lubet, it pleases: cf. F. libidineux. See Lief.]
Having lustful desires; characterized by lewdness; sensual; lascivious.
Li*bid"i*nous*ly, adv. -- Li*bid"i*nous*ness, n.


word: libido
definition:
libido

li*bi"do
(lĭ*bē"do̝)
n.
1.
Sexual desire; the sexual instinct; the sex drive.

2.
(Psychoanalysis)
Those desires and instinctual energies which are derived from the id.


word: Libkin
definition:
Libkin

Libken

{ Lib"ken (lĭb"kĕn), Lib"kin (lĭb"kĭn), }
n.
[AS. libban, E. live, v. i. + -kin.]
A house or lodging.
[Old Slang]
B. Jonson.


word: Libra
definition:
Libra

Librae

Li"bra
(lī"brȧ)
n.
pl. Libræ (lī"brē).
[L., a balance.]
(Astron.)
(a)
The Balance; the seventh sign in the zodiac, which the sun enters at the autumnal equinox in September, marked thus &libra_; in almanacs, etc.
(b )
A southern constellation between Virgo and Scorpio.


word: Libral
definition:
Libral

Li"bral
(lī"bral)
a.
[L. libralis, fr. libra the Roman pound.]
Of a pound weight.
[Obs.]
Johnson.


word: Librarian
definition:
Librarian

Li*bra"ri*an
(li̝*brā"rĭ*an)
n.
[See Library.]
1.
One who has the care or charge of a library.

2.
One who copies manuscript books.
[Obs.]
Broome.


word: Library
definition:
Library

Li"bra*ry
(lī"bra̝*r&ybreve_;)
n.
pl. Libraries (-rĭz).
[OE. librairie, F. librairie bookseller's shop, book trade, formerly, a library, fr. libraire bookseller, L. librarius, from liber book; cf. libraria bookseller's shop, librarium bookcase, It. libreria. See Libel.]
1.
A considerable collection of books kept for use, and not as merchandise; as, a private library; a public library.

2.
A building or apartment appropriated for holding such a collection of books.
Holland.


word: Librate
definition:
Librate

Li"brate
(lī"brāt)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Librated (lī"bra̝*tĕd); p. pr. & vb. n. Librating.]
[L. libratus, p. p. of librare to balance, to make even, fr. libra.  Cf. Level, Deliberate, Equilibrium.]
To vibrate as a balance does before resting in equilibrium; hence, to be poised.

Their parts all librate on too nice a beam.
Clifton.


word: Libration
definition:
Libration

Li*bra"tion
(li̝*brā"shŭn)
n.
[L. libratio: cf. F. libration.]
1.
The act or state of librating.
Jer. Taylor.

2.
(Astron.)
A real or apparent libratory motion, like that of a balance before coming to rest.

Libration of the moon, any one of those small periodical changes in the position of the moon's surface relatively to the earth, in consequence of which narrow portions at opposite limbs become visible or invisible alternately. It receives different names according to the manner in which it takes place; as: (a) Libration in longitude, that which, depending on the place of the moon in its elliptic orbit, causes small portions near the eastern and western borders alternately to appear and disappear each month. (b) Libration in latitude, that which depends on the varying position of the moon's axis in respect to the spectator, causing the alternate appearance and disappearance of either pole. (c) Diurnal or parallactic libration, that which brings into view on the upper limb, at rising and setting, some parts not in the average visible hemisphere.


word: Libration point
definition:
Libration point

Li*bra"tion point`
(li̝*brā"shŭn point`)
n.
any one of five points in the plane of a system of two large astronomical bodies orbiting each other, as the Earth-moon system, where the gravitational pull of the two bodies on an object are approximately equal, and in opposite directions.  A solid object moving in the same velocity and direction as such a libration point will remain in gravitational equilibrium with the two bodies of the system and not fall toward either body.


word: Libratory
definition:
Libratory

Li"bra*to*ry
(lī"brȧ*to̝*r&ybreve_;)
a.
Balancing; moving like a balance, as it tends to an equipoise or level.


word: Libretto
definition:
Libretto

Li*bret"to
(lĭ*brĕt"to̝; It. le̝*bra̝t"to̝)
n.
pl. E. Librettos (-t&omacrz), It. Libretti (-te̝).
[It., dim. of libro book, L. liber. See Libel.]
(Mus.)
(a)
A book containing the words of an opera or extended piece of music.
(b)
The words themselves.


word: Libriform
definition:
Libriform

Li"bri*form
(lī"brĭ*fôrm)
a.
[Liber + -form.]
(Bot.)
Having the form of liber, or resembling liber.

Libriform cells, peculiar wood cells which are very slender and relatively thick-walled, and occasionally are furnished with bordered pits. Goodale.


word: Libya
definition:
Libya

Libya
prop. n.
A country in Northern Africa, between Egypt and Tunisia, bordering the Mediterranean Sea.  It also borders on Algeria, Chad, Niger, and Sudan.  It is an Arabic-speaking country with over 97% of the population Sunni Moslem.  The population in 1995 was about 5,248,000.  The capital is Tripoli.

&hand_;  Until the formation of the modern nation of Libya in 1952, the name had been applied to the same territory that had been ruled by Italy, and after World War II, by Britain and France.  In ancient times, Libya was the name given to all of that part of Africa between Egypt and the Atlantic Ocean, and sometimes to Africa as a whole.


word: Libyan
definition:
Libyan

Lib"y*an
(lĭb"ĭ*an)
a.
Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of, the country Libya or its inhabitants.


word: licencee
definition:
licencee

licenced

licence

licence (lī"sens), licenced, licencee
Same as license, licensed, licensee.


word: License
definition:
License

Li"cense
(lī"sens)
n.
[Written also licence.]
[F. licence, L. licentia, fr. licere to be permitted, prob. orig., to be left free to one; akin to linquere to leave. See Loan, and cf. Illicit, Leisure.]
1.
Authority or liberty given to do or forbear any act; especially, a formal permission from the proper authorities to perform certain acts or to carry on a certain business, which without such permission would be illegal; a grant of permission; as, a license to preach, to practice medicine, to sell gunpowder or intoxicating liquors.

To have a license and a leave at London to dwell.
P. Plowman.

2.
The document granting such permission.
Addison.

3.
Excess of liberty; freedom abused, or used in contempt of law or decorum; disregard of law or propriety.

License they mean when they cry liberty.
Milton.

4.
That deviation from strict fact, form, or rule, in which an artist or writer indulges, assuming that it will be permitted for the sake of the advantage or effect gained; as, poetic license; grammatical license, etc.


word: License₂
definition:
License

Li"cense
(lī"sens)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Licensed (lī"senst); p. pr. & vb. n. Licensing.]
To permit or authorize by license; to give license to; as, to license a man to preach.
Milton. Shak.

Syn. -- licence, certify.


word: Licensed
definition:
Licensed

Li"censed
(lī"senst)
a.
Having a license; permitted or authorized by license; as, a licensed victualer; a licensed traffic.

Syn. -- accredited, commissioned, licenced.

Licensed victualer, one who has a license to keep an inn or eating house; esp., a victualer who has a license to sell intoxicating liquors.


word: Licentiate
definition:
Licentiate

Li*cen"ti*ate
(li̝*sĕn"shĭ*a̝t or -sha̝t; 106)
n.
[LL. licentiatus, fr. licentiare to allow to do anything, fr. L. licentia license. See License, n.]
1.
One who has a license to exercise a profession; as, a licentiate in medicine or theology.

The college of physicians, in July, 1687, published an edict, requiring all the fellows, candidates, and licentiates, to give gratuitous advice to the neighboring poor.
Johnson.

2.
A friar authorized to receive confessions and grant absolution in all places, independently of the local clergy.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.

3.
One who acts without restraint, or takes a liberty, as if having a license therefor.
[Obs.]
Bp. Hall.

4.
On the continent of Europe, a university degree intermediate between that of bachelor and that of doctor.


word: Licentious
definition:
Licentious

Li*cen"tious
(-shŭs)
a.
[L. licentiosus:  cf. F. licencieux. See License.]
1.
Characterized by license; passing due bounds; excessive; abusive of freedom; wantonly offensive; as, a licentious press.

A wit that no licentious pertness knows.
Savage.

2.
Unrestrained by law or morality; lawless; immoral; dissolute; lewd; lascivious; as, a licentious man; a licentious life.
Licentious
Shak.


word: Lich₂
definition:
Lich

Lich
(lĭch)
n.
[AS. līc body. See Like, a.]
A dead body; a corpse.
[Obs.]

Lich fowl (Zool.), the European goatsucker; -- called also lich owl. -- Lich gate, a covered gate through which the corpse was carried to the church or burial place, and where the bier was placed to await the clergyman; a corpse gate. [Prov. Eng.] Halliwell. -- Lich wake, the wake, or watching, held over a corpse before burial. [Prov Eng.] Chaucer. -- Lich wall, the wall of a churchyard or burying ground. -- Lich way, the path by which the dead are carried to the grave. [Prov. Eng.]


word: lichee
definition:
lichee

lichee
n.
1.
A Chinese tree (Litchi chinensis) cultivated especially in the Philippines and India for its edible fruit, the litchi nut; sometimes placed in the genus Nephelium.

Syn. -- litchi, litchi tree, Litchi chinensis, Nephelium litchi.

2.
A Chinese fruit having a thin brittle shell enclosing a sweet jellylike pulp and a single seed; often dried.

Syn. -- litchi, litchi nut, litchee, lichi, leechee, lychee.


word: Lichen
definition:
Lichen

Li"chen
(lī"kĕn; 277)
n.
[L., fr. Gr. leichh`n.]
1.
(Bot.)
One of a class of cellular, flowerless plants, (technically called Lichenes), having no distinction of leaf and stem, usually of scaly, expanded, frond-like forms, but sometimes erect or pendulous and variously branched. They derive their nourishment from the air, and generate by means of spores. The species are very widely distributed, and form irregular spots or patches, usually of a greenish or yellowish color, upon rocks, trees, and various bodies, to which they adhere with great tenacity. They are often improperly called rock moss or tree moss.

&hand_; A favorite modern theory of lichens (called after its inventor the Schwendener hypothesis), is that they are not autonomous plants, but that they consist of ascigerous fungi, parasitic on algæ. Each lichen is composed of white filaments and green, or greenish, rounded cells, and it is argued that the two are of different nature, the one living at the expense of the other. See Hyphæ, and Gonidia.

2.
(Med.)
A name given to several varieties of skin disease, esp. to one characterized by the eruption of small, conical or flat, reddish pimples, which, if unchecked, tend to spread and produce great and even fatal exhaustion.


word: Lichenic
definition:
Lichenic

Li*chen"ic
(li̝*kĕn"ĭk)
a.
Of, pertaining to, or obtained from, lichens.

Lichenic acid. (a) An organic acid, C14H24O3, obtained from Iceland moss. (b) An old name of fumaric acid.


word: Lichenin
definition:
Lichenin

Li"chen*in
(lī"kĕn*ĭn)
n.
(Chem.)
A substance isomeric with starch, extracted from several species of moss and lichen, esp. from Iceland moss.


word: Lichenographical
definition:
Lichenographical

Lichenographic

{ Li`chen*o*graph"ic (lī`kĕn*o̝*grăf"ĭk), Li`chen*o*graph"ic*al (-ĭ*kal), }
a.
[Cf. F. lichénographique.]
Of or pertaining to lichenography.


word: Lichenographist
definition:
Lichenographist

Li`chen*og"ra*phist
(-&obreve_;g"rȧ*fĭst)
n.
One who describes lichens; one versed in lichenography.


word: Lichenography
definition:
Lichenography

Li`chen*og"ra*phy
(lī`kĕn*&obreve_;g"rȧ*f&ybreve_;)
n.
[Lichen + -graphy: cf. F.  lichénographie.]
A description of lichens; the science which illustrates the natural history of lichens.


word: Lichenology
definition:
Lichenology

Li`chen*ol"o*gy
(-j&ybreve_;)
n.
[Lichen + -logy.]
The science which treats of lichens.


word: Lichenous
definition:
Lichenous

Li"chen*ous
(lī"kĕn*ŭs)
a.
Of, pertaining to, or resembling, lichens; abounding in lichens; covered with lichens.
G. Eliot.


word: Licit
definition:
Licit

Lic"it
(lĭs"ĭt)
a.
[L. licitus permitted, lawful, from licere: cf. F. licite. See License.]
Lawful.
Licit
Carlyle.
Lic"it*ly, adv. -- Lic"it*ness, n.


word: Licitation
definition:
Licitation

Lic`i*ta"tion
(lĭs`ĭ*tā"shŭn)
n.
[L. licitatio, fr. licitari, liceri, to bid, offer a price.]
The act of offering for sale to the highest bidder.
[R.]


word: Lick
definition:
Lick

Lick
(lĭk)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Licked (lĭkt); p. pr. & vb. n. Licking.]
[AS. liccian; akin to OS. likk&omacrn, D. likken, OHG. lecch&omacrn, G. lecken, Goth. bi-laig&omacrn, Russ. lizate, L. lingere, Gr. lei`chein , Skr. lih, rih. √121.  Cf. Lecher, Relish.]
1.
To draw or pass the tongue over; as, a dog licks his master's hand.
Addison.

2.
To lap; to take in with the tongue; as, a dog or cat licks milk.
Shak.

To lick the dust, to be slain; to fall in battle. “His enemies shall lick the dust.”  Ps. lxxii. 9. -- To lick into shape, to give proper form to; -- from a notion that the bear's cubs are born shapeless and subsequently formed by licking. Hudibras. -- To lick the spittle of, to fawn upon. South. -- To lick up, to take all of by licking; to devour; to consume entirely. Shak. Num. xxii. 4.


word: Lick₂
definition:
Lick

Lick
n.
[See Lick, v.]
1.
A stroke of the tongue in licking.
lick
Dryden.

2.
A quick and careless application of anything, as if by a stroke of the tongue, or of something which acts like a tongue; as, to put on colors with a lick of the brush. Also, a small quantity of any substance so applied.
[Colloq.]

A lick of court whitewash.
Gray.

3.
A place where salt is found on the surface of the earth, to which wild animals resort to lick it up; -- often, but not always, near salt springs.  Called also salt lick.
[U. S.]


word: Lick₃
definition:
Lick

Lick
v. t.
[Cf. OSw. lägga to place, strike, prick.]
To strike with repeated blows for punishment; to flog; to whip or conquer, as in a pugilistic encounter.
[Colloq. or Low]
Carlyle. Thackeray.


word: Licker
definition:
Licker

Lick"er
(lĭk"ẽr)
n.
[Cf. Lecher.]
One who, or that which, licks.

Licker in (Carding Machine), the drum, or cylinder, by which the lap is taken from the feed rollers.


word: Lickerish
definition:
Lickerish

Lick"er*ish
a.
[Cf. Lecherous.]
1.
Eager; craving; urged by desire; eager to taste or enjoy; greedy.
lickerish
Bp. Hall.

2.
Tempting the appetite; dainty.
Lickerish
Milton.

3.
Lecherous; lustful.
Robert of Brunne.


word: Lickpenny
definition:
Lickpenny

Lick"pen`ny
(-pĕn`n&ybreve_;)
n.
A devourer or absorber of money.
lickpenny
Sir W. Scott.


word: Licorice
definition:
Licorice

Lic"o*rice
(lĭk"o̝*rĭs)
n.
[OE. licoris, through old French, fr. L. liquiritia, corrupted fr. glycyrrhiza, Gr. glyky`rriza; glyky`s sweet + "ri`za root.  Cf. Glycerin, Glycyrrhiza, Wort.]
[Written also liquorice.]
1.
(Bot.)
A plant of the genus Glycyrrhiza (Glycyrrhiza glabra), the root of which abounds with a sweet juice, and is much used in demulcent compositions.

2.
The inspissated juice of licorice root, used as a confection and for medicinal purposes.

Licorice fern (Bot.), a name of several kinds of polypody which have rootstocks of a sweetish flavor. -- Licorice sugar. (Chem.) See Glycyrrhizin. -- Licorice weed (Bot.), the tropical plant Scapania dulcis. -- Mountain licorice (Bot.), a kind of clover (Trifolium alpinum), found in the Alps. It has large purplish flowers and a sweetish perennial rootstock. -- Wild licorice. (Bot.) (a) The North American perennial herb Glycyrrhiza lepidota. (b) Certain broad-leaved cleavers (Galium circæzans and Galium lanceolatum). (c) The leguminous climber Abrus precatorius, whose scarlet and black seeds are called black-eyed Susans. Its roots are used as a substitute for those of true licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra).


word: Lictor
definition:
Lictor

Lic"tor
(lĭk"t&obreve_;r)
n.
[L.]
(Rom. Antiq.)
An officer who bore an ax and fasces or rods, as ensigns of his office. His duty was to attend the chief magistrates when they appeared in public, to clear the way, and cause due respect to be paid to them, also to apprehend and punish criminals.

Lictors and rods, the ensigns of their power.
Milton.


word: Lid
definition:
Lid

Lid
(lĭd)
n.
[AS. hlid, fr. hlīdan (in comp.) to cover, shut; akin to OS. hlīdan (in comp.), D. lid lid, OHG. hlit, G. augenlid eyelid, Icel. hlið gate, gateway. √40.]

1.
That which covers the opening of a vessel or box, etc.; a movable cover; as, the lid of a chest or trunk.

2.
The cover of the eye; an eyelid.
Shak.

Tears, big tears, gushed from the rough soldier's lid.
Byron.

3.
(Bot.)
(a)
The cover of the spore cases of mosses.
(b)
A calyx which separates from the flower, and falls off in a single piece, as in the Australian Eucalypti.
(c)
The top of an ovary which opens transversely, as in the fruit of the purslane and the tree which yields Brazil nuts.


word: Lidless
definition:
Lidless

Lid"less
(lĭd"lĕs)
a.
Having no lid, or not covered with the lids, as the eyes; hence, sleepless; watchful.

A lidless watcher of the public weal.
Tennyson.


word: lido
definition:
lido

lido
n.
1.
[After the Lido, a group of sandy barrier islands between the lagoon of Venice and the Adriatic, a popular beach resort.]
A recreational facility, especially one including a swimming pool for water sports.
[British]


word: Lie₂
definition:
Lie

Lie
(lī)
n.
[AS. lyge; akin to D. leugen, OHG. lugi, G. lüge, lug, Icel. lygi, Dan. & Sw. lögn, Goth. liugn. See Lie to utter a falsehood.]
1.
A falsehood uttered or acted for the purpose of deception; an intentional violation of truth; an untruth spoken with the intention to deceive.

The proper notion of a lie is an endeavoring to deceive another by signifying that to him as true, which we ourselves think not to be so.
S. Clarke.

It is willful deceit that makes a lie. A man may act a lie, as by pointing his finger in a wrong direction when a traveler inquires of him his road.
Paley.

2.
A fiction; a fable; an untruth.
Dryden.

3.
Anything which misleads or disappoints.

Wishing this lie of life was o'er.
Trench.

To give the lie to. (a) To charge with falsehood; as, the man gave him the lie. (b) To reveal to be false; as, a man's actions may give the lie to his words. -- White lie, a euphemism for such lies as one finds it convenient to tell, and excuses himself for telling.


word: Lie₃
definition:
Lie

Lie
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Lied (līd); p. pr. & vb. n. Lying (lī"ĭng).]
[OE. lien, li&yogh_;en, le&yogh_;en, leo&yogh_;en, AS. leógan; akin to D. liegen, OS. &  OHG. liogan, G. lügen, Icel. ljūga, Sw. ljuga, Dan. lyve, Goth. liugan, Russ. lgate.]
To utter falsehood with an intention to deceive; to say or do that which is intended to deceive another, when he a right to know the truth, or when morality requires a just representation.


word: Lie₄
definition:
Lie

Lie
v. i.
[imp. Lay (lā); p. p. Lain (lān), (Lien (lī"ĕn), Obs.); p. pr. & vb. n. Lying.]
[OE. lien, liggen, AS. licgan; akin to D. liggen, OHG. ligen, licken, G. liegen, Icel. liggja, Sw. ligga, Dan. ligge, Goth.  ligan, Russ. lejate, L. lectus bed, Gr. le`chos bed, le`xasqai to lie.  Cf. Lair, Law, Lay, v. t., Litter, Low, adj.]
1.
To rest extended on the ground, a bed, or any support; to be, or to put one's self, in an horizontal position, or nearly so; to be prostate; to be stretched out; -- often with down, when predicated of living creatures; as, the book lies on the table; the snow lies on the roof; he lies in his coffin.

The watchful traveler . . . 
Lay down again, and closed his weary eyes.
Dryden.

2.
To be situated; to occupy a certain place; as, Ireland lies west of England; the meadows lie along the river; the ship lay in port.

3.
To abide; to remain for a longer or shorter time; to be in a certain state or condition; as, to lie waste; to lie fallow; to lie open; to lie hid; to lie grieving; to lie under one's displeasure; to lie at the mercy of the waves; the paper does not lie smooth on the wall.

4.
To be or exist; to belong or pertain; to have an abiding place; to consist; -- with in.

Envy lies between beings equal in nature, though unequal in circumstances.
Collier.

He that thinks that diversion may not lie in hard labor, forgets the early rising and hard riding of huntsmen.
Locke.

5.
To lodge; to sleep.

Whiles I was now trifling at home, I saw London, . . . where I lay one night only.
Evelyn.

Mr. Quinion lay at our house that night.
Dickens.

6.
To be still or quiet, like one lying down to rest.

The wind is loud and will not lie.
Shak.

7.
(Law)
To be sustainable; to be capable of being maintained.
lies
Parsons.

&hand_; Through ignorance or carelessness speakers and writers often confuse the forms of the two distinct verbs lay and lie. Lay is a transitive verb, and has for its preterit laid; as, he told me to lay it down, and I laid it down. Lie is intransitive, and has for its preterit lay; as, he told me to lie down, and I lay down.  Some persons blunder by using laid for the preterit of lie; as, he told me to lie down, and I laid down. So persons often say incorrectly, the ship laid at anchor; they laid by during the storm; the book was laying on the shelf, etc. It is only necessary to remember, in all such cases, that laid is the preterit of lay, and not of lie.

To lie along the shore (Naut.), to coast, keeping land in sight. -- To lie at the door of, to be imputable to; as, the sin, blame, etc., lies at your door. -- To lie at the heart, to be an object of affection, desire, or anxiety. Sir W. Temple. -- To lie at the mercy of, to be in the power of. -- To lie by. (a) To remain with; to be at hand; as, he has the manuscript lying by him. (b) To rest; to intermit labor; as, we lay by during the heat of the day. -- To lie hard or To lie heavy, to press or weigh; to bear hard. -- To lie in, to be in childbed; to bring forth young. -- To lie in one, to be in the power of; to belong to. “As much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” Rom. xii. 18. -- To lie in the way, to be an obstacle or impediment. -- To lie in wait , to wait in concealment; to lie in ambush. -- To lie on or To lie upon. (a) To depend on; as, his life lies on the result. (b) To bear, rest, press, or weigh on. -- To lie low, to remain in concealment or inactive. [Slang] -- To lie on hand, To lie on one's hands, to remain unsold or unused; as, the goods are still lying on his hands; they have too much time lying on their hands. -- To lie on the head of, to be imputed to.
[1913 Webster]
What he gets more of her than sharp words, let it lie on my head. Shak.
[1913 Webster]
-- To lie over. (a) To remain unpaid after the time when payment is due, as a note in bank. (b) To be deferred to some future occasion, as a resolution in a public deliberative body. -- To lie to (Naut.), to stop or delay; especially, to head as near the wind as possible as being the position of greatest safety in a gale; -- said of a ship.  Cf. To bring to, under Bring. -- To lie under, to be subject to; to suffer; to be oppressed by. -- To lie with. (a) To lodge or sleep with. (b) To have sexual intercourse with. (c) To belong to; as, it lies with you to make amends.


word: Lie₅
definition:
Lie

Lie
(lī)
n.
The position or way in which anything lies; the lay, as of land or country.
J. H. Newman.

He surveyed with his own eyes . . . the lie of the country on the side towards Thrace.
Jowett (Thucyd.).


word: Lieberkuehn
definition:
Lieberkuehn

Lieberkuhn

Lie"ber*kühn
(lē"bẽr*k&usdot_;n)
prop. n.
[Named after a German physician and instrument maker, J. N. Lieberkühn.]
(Optics)
A concave metallic mirror attached to the object-glass end of a microscope, to throw down light on opaque objects; a reflector.


word: Lieberkuehn's glands
definition:
Lieberkuehn's glands

Lie"ber*kühn's glands`
(lē"bẽr*k&usdot_;nz glăndz`)
n.
[See Lieberkuehn.]
(Anat.)
The simple tubular glands of the small intestines; -- called also crypts of Lieberkuehn.


word: liebfraumilch
definition:
liebfraumilch

liebfraumilch
n.
[From the liebfrauenstift, a convent in Worms where the wine was first made. RHUD]
A white Rhenish-type wine produced especially in Hesse in western Germany.


word: Liechtensteiner
definition:
Liechtensteiner

Liechtensteiner
prop. a.
1.
of or pertaining to Liechtenstein; as, Liechtensteiner castles.

2.
of or pertaining to the inhabitants of Liechtenstein; as, Liechtensteiner writers.


word: Lied
definition:
Lied

Lied
(lēt)
n.
pl. Lieder (lē"dẽr).
[G.]
(Mus.)
A lay; a German song.  It differs from the French chanson, and the Italian canzone, all three being national.

The German Lied is perhaps the most faithful reflection of the national sentiment.
Grove.


word: Liederkranz
definition:
Liederkranz

Lie"der*kranz
n.
[G. See Lied, and Grants.]
(Mus.)
Lit., wreath of songs; -- used as the title of a group of songs, and esp. as the common name for German vocal clubs of men.


word: Liedertafel
definition:
Liedertafel

Lie"der*ta`fel
(lē"dẽr*tä`f'l)
n.
[G., lit., a song table.]
(Mus.)
A popular name for any society or club which meets for the practice of male part songs.


word: Lief₂
definition:
Lief

Lief
(lēf)
a.
[Written also lieve.]
[OE. leef, lef, leof, AS. leíf; akin to OS. liof, OFries. liaf, D. lief, G. lieb, OHG. liob, Icel. lj_;fr, Sw. ljuf, Goth. liubs, and E. love. √124.  See Love, and cf. Believe, Leave, n., Furlough, Libidinous.]
1.
Dear; beloved.
[Obs., except in poetry.]
liefe
Chaucer.
liefest
Shak.

As thou art lief and dear.
Tennyson.

2.
(Used with a form of the verb to be, and the dative of the personal pronoun.)
Pleasing; agreeable; acceptable; preferable.
[Obs.]
See Lief, adv., and Had as lief, under Had.

Full lief me were this counsel for to hide.
Chaucer.

Death me liefer were than such despite.
Spenser.

3.
Willing; disposed.
[Obs.]

I am not lief to gab.
Chaucer.

He up arose, however lief or loth.
Spenser.


word: Lief₄
definition:
Lief

Lief
adv.
Gladly; willingly; freely; -- now used only in the phrases, had as lief, and would as lief; as, I had, or would, as lief go as not.

All women liefest would
Be sovereign of man's love.
Gower.

I had as lief the town crier spoke my lines.
Shak.

Far liefer by his dear hand had I die.
Tennyson.

&hand_; The comparative liefer with had or would, and followed by the infinitive, either with or without the sign to, signifies prefer, choose as preferable, would or had rather. In the 16th century rather was substituted for liefer in such constructions in literary English, and has continued to be generally so used. See Had as lief, Had rather, etc. , under Had.


word: Liege
definition:
Liege

Liege
(lēj)
a.
[OE. lige, lege, F. lige, LL. ligius, legius, liege, unlimited, complete, prob. of German origin; cf. G. ledig free from bonds and obstacles, MHG. ledec, ledic, lidic, freed, loosed, and Charta Ottonis de Benthem, ann. 1253, “ligius homo quod Teutonicè dicitur ledigman,” i. e., uni soli homagio obligatus, free from all obligations to others; influenced by L. ligare to bind. G. ledig perh. orig. meant, free to go where one pleases, and is perh. akin to E. lead to conduct.  Cf. Lead to guide.]
1.
Sovereign; independent; having authority or right to allegiance; as, a liege lord.
Chaucer.

She looked as grand as doomsday and as grave;
And he, he reverenced his liege lady there.
Tennyson.

2.
serving an independent sovereign or master; bound by a feudal tenure; obliged to be faithful and loyal to a superior, as a vassal to his lord; faithful; loyal; as, a liege man; a liege subject.

3.
(Old Law)
Full; perfect; complete; pure.
Burrill.

Liege homage (Feudal Custom), that homage of one sovereign or prince to another which acknowledged an obligation of fealty and services. -- Liege poustie [L. legitima potestas] (Scots Law), perfect, i. e., legal, power; specif., having health requisite to do legal acts. -- Liege widowhood, perfect, i. e., pure, widowhood. [Obs.]


word: Liege₂
definition:
Liege

Liege
(lēj)
n.
1.
A free and independent person; specif., a lord paramount; a sovereign.
Mrs. Browning.

The anointed sovereign of sighs and groans,
Liege of all loiterers and malcontents.
Shak.

2.
The subject of a sovereign or lord; a liegeman.

A liege lord seems to have been a lord of a free band; and his lieges, though serving under him, were privileged men, free from all other obligations, their name being due to their freedom, not to their service.
Skeat.


word: Lien₂
definition:
Lien

Lien
(lēn or lī"ĕn; 277)
n.
[F. lien band, bond, tie, fr. L. ligamen, fr.  ligare to bind.  Cf. League a union, Leam a string, Leamer, Ligament.]
(Law)
A legal claim; a charge upon real or personal property for the satisfaction of some debt or duty; a right in one to control or hold and retain the property of another until some claim of the former is paid or satisfied.


word: Lienal
definition:
Lienal

Li*e"nal
(li̝*ē"nal)
a.
[L. lien the spleen.]
(Anat.)
Of or pertaining to the spleen; splenic.


word: Lienculus
definition:
Lienculus

Li*en"cu*lus
(li̝*ĕ&nsmacr_;"k&uuptack_;*lŭs)
n.
pl. Lienculi (li̝*ĕ&nsmacr_;"k&uuptack_;*lī).
[NL., dim. of L. lien the spleen.]
(Anat.)
One of the small nodules sometimes found in the neighborhood of the spleen; an accessory or supplementary spleen.


word: Lieno-intestinal
definition:
Lieno-intestinal

Li*e`no-in*tes"ti*nal
(li̝*ē`no̝-ĭn*tĕs"tĭ*nal)
a.
[l. lien the spleen + E. intestinal.]
(Anat.)
Of or pertaining to the spleen and intestine; as, the lieno-intestinal vein of the frog.


word: Lienteric
definition:
Lienteric

Li`en*ter"ic
(lī`ĕn*tĕr"ĭk)
a.
[L. lientericus, Gr. leienteriko`s: cf. F. lientérique. See Lientery.]
(Med.)
Of or pertaining to, or of the nature of, a lientery.
n. (Med.) A lientery.
Grew.


word: Lientery
definition:
Lientery

Li"en*ter*y
(lī"ĕn*tĕr*&ybreve_;)
n.
[Gr. leienteri`a; lei^os smooth, soft + 'e`nteron an intestine: cf. F. lientérie.]
(Med.)
A diarrhea, in which the food is discharged imperfectly digested, or with but little change.
Dunglison.


word: Lier
definition:
Lier

Li"er
(lī"ẽr)
n.
[From Lie. ]
One who lies down; one who rests or remains, as in concealment.

There were liers in a ambush against him.
Josh. viii. 14.


word: Lierne rib
definition:
Lierne rib

Lierne" rib`
(lyârn" rĭb`)
n.
[F. lierne.]
(Arch.)
In Gothic vaulting, any rib which does not spring from the impost and is not a ridge rib, but passes from one boss or intersection of the principal ribs to another.


word: Lieu
definition:
Lieu

Lieu
(lū)
n.
[F., OF. also liu, leu, lou, fr. L. locus place. See Local, Locus.]
Place; room; stead; -- used only in the phrase in lieu of, that is, instead of.

The plan of extortion had been adopted in lieu of the scheme of confiscation.
Burke.


word: Lieutenancy
definition:
Lieutenancy

Lieu*ten"an*cy
(l&uuptack_;*tĕn"an*s&ybreve_;; 277)
n.
1.
The office, rank, or commission, of a lieutenant.

2.
The body of lieutenants or subordinates.
[Obs.]

The list of the lieutenancy of our metropolis.
Felton.


word: Lieutenant
definition:
Lieutenant

Lieu*ten"ant
(l&uuptack_;*tĕn"ant)
n.
[F., fr. lieu place + tenant holding, p. pr. of tenir to hold, L. tenere. See Lieu, and Tenant, and cf. Locum tenens.]
1.
An officer who supplies the place of a superior in his absence; a representative of, or substitute for, another in the performance of any duty.

The lawful magistrate, who is the vicegerent or lieutenant of God.
Abp. Bramhall.

2.
(a)
A commissioned officer in the army, next below a captain.
(b)
A commissioned officer in the British navy, in rank next below a commander.
(c)
A commissioned officer in the United States navy, in rank next below a lieutenant commander.

&hand_; Lieutenant is often used, either adjectively or in hyphened compounds, to denote an officer, in rank next below another, especially when the duties of the higher officer may devolve upon the lower one; as, lieutenant general, or lieutenant-general; lieutenant colonel, or lieutenant-colonel; lieutenant governor, etc.

Deputy lieutenant, the title of any one of the deputies or assistants of the lord lieutenant of a county. [Eng.] -- Lieutenant colonel, an army officer next in rank above major, and below colonel. -- Lieutenant commander, an officer in the United States navy, in rank next below a commander and next above a lieutenant. -- Lieutenant general. See in Vocabulary. -- Lieutenant governor. (a) An officer of a State, being next in rank to the governor, and in case of the death or resignation of the latter, himself acting as governor. [U. S.] (b) A deputy governor acting as the chief civil officer of one of several colonies under a governor general. [Eng.]


word: Lieutenant general
definition:
Lieutenant general

Lieu*ten"ant gen"er*al
(l&uuptack_;*tĕn"ant jĕn"ẽr*al)
n.
An army officer in rank next below a general and next above a major general.

&hand_; In the United States, before the civil war, this rank had been conferred only on George Washington and (in brevet) on Winfield Scott. In 1864 it was revived by Congress and conferred on Ulysses S. Grant, and subsequently, by promotion, on William T. Sherman and Philip H. Sheridan, each of whom was advanced to the rank of general of the army. When Sheridan was made general (in 1888) the rank of lieutenant general was suffered to lapse. See General.


word: Lif
definition:
Lif

Lif
(lĭf)
n.
[Written also lief.]
The fiber by which the petioles of the date palm are bound together, from which various kinds of cordage are made.


word: Life
definition:
Life

Life
(līf)
n.
pl. Lives (līvz).
[AS. līf; akin to D. lijf body, G. leib body, MHG. līp life, body, OHG. līb life, Icel. līf, life, body, Sw. lif, Dan. liv, and E. live, v. √119. See Live, and cf. Alive.]
1.
The state of being which begins with generation, birth, or germination, and ends with death; also, the time during which this state continues; that state of an animal or plant in which all or any of its organs are capable of performing all or any of their functions; -- used of all animal and vegetable organisms.

2.
Of human beings: The union of the soul and body; also, the duration of their union; sometimes, the deathless quality or existence of the soul; as, man is a creature having an immortal life.

She shows a body rather than a life.
Shak.

3.
(Philos.)
The potential principle, or force, by which the organs of animals and plants are started and continued in the performance of their several and cooperative functions; the vital force, whether regarded as physical or spiritual.

4.
Figuratively: The potential or animating principle, also, the period of duration, of anything that is conceived of as resembling a natural organism in structure or functions; as, the life of a state, a machine, or a book; authority is the life of government.

5.
A certain way or manner of living with respect to conditions, circumstances, character, conduct, occupation, etc.; hence, human affairs; also, lives, considered collectively, as a distinct class or type; as, low life; a good or evil life; the life of Indians, or of miners.

That which before us lies in daily life.
Milton.

By experience of life abroad in the world.
Ascham.

Lives of great men all remind us
We can make our lives sublime.
Longfellow.

'T is from high life high characters are drawn.
Pope

6.
Animation; spirit; vivacity; vigor; energy.

No notion of life and fire in fancy and in words.
Felton.

That gives thy gestures grace and life.
Wordsworth.

7.
That which imparts or excites spirit or vigor; that upon which enjoyment or success depends; as, he was the life of the company, or of the enterprise.

8.
The living or actual form, person, thing, or state; as, a picture or a description from, the life.

9.
A person; a living being, usually a human being; as, many lives were sacrificed.

10.
The system of animal nature; animals in general, or considered collectively.

Full nature swarms with life.
Thomson.

11.
An essential constituent of life, esp: the blood.

The words that I speak unto you . . . they are life.
John vi. 63.

The warm life came issuing through the wound.
Pope

12.
A history of the acts and events of a life; a biography; as, Johnson wrote the life of Milton.

13.
Enjoyment in the right use of the powers; especially, a spiritual existence; happiness in the favor of God; heavenly felicity.

14.
Something dear to one as one's existence; a darling; -- used as a term of endearment.

&hand_; Life forms the first part of many compounds, for the most part of obvious meaning; as, life-giving, life-sustaining, etc.

Life annuity, an annuity payable during one's life. -- Life arrow, Life rocket, Life shot, an arrow, rocket, or shot, for carrying an attached line to a vessel in distress in order to save life. -- Life assurance. See Life insurance, below.  -- Life buoy. See Buoy. -- Life car, a water-tight boat or box, traveling on a line from a wrecked vessel to the shore. In it person are hauled through the waves and surf. -- Life drop, a drop of vital blood. Byron. -- Life estate (Law), an estate which is held during the term of some certain person's life, but does not pass by inheritance. -- Life everlasting (Bot.), a plant with white or yellow persistent scales about the heads of the flowers, as Antennaria, and Gnaphalium; cudweed. -- Life of an execution (Law), the period when an execution is in force, or before it expires. -- Life guard. (Mil.) See under Guard. -- Life insurance, the act or system of insuring against death; a contract by which the insurer undertakes, in consideration of the payment of a premium (usually at stated periods), to pay a stipulated sum in the event of the death of the insured or of a third person in whose life the insured has an interest. -- Life interest, an estate or interest which lasts during one's life, or the life of another person, but does not pass by inheritance. -- Life land (Law), land held by lease for the term of a life or lives. -- Life line. (a) (Naut.) A line along any part of a vessel for the security of sailors. (b) A line attached to a life boat, or to any life saving apparatus, to be grasped by a person in the water. -- Life rate, rate of premium for insuring a life. -- Life rent, the rent of a life estate; rent or property to which one is entitled during one's life. -- Life school, a school for artists in which they model, paint, or draw from living models. -- Lifetable, a table showing the probability of life at different ages. -- To lose one's life, to die. -- To seek the life of, to seek to kill. -- To the life, so as closely to resemble the living person or the subject; as, the portrait was drawn to the life.


word: Lifeblood
definition:
Lifeblood

Life"blood`
(līf"blŭd`)
n.
1.
The blood necessary to life; vital blood.
Dryden.

2.
Fig.: That which gives strength and energy.

Money [is] the lifeblood of the nation.
Swift.


word: Lifeboat
definition:
Lifeboat

Life"boat`
(līf"b&omacrt`)
n.
A strong, buoyant boat especially designed for saving the lives of shipwrecked people.


word: life-giving
definition:
life-giving

life"-giv`ing
(līf"gĭv`ĭng)
a.
Giving life or spirit; having power to give life; inspiriting; invigorating; as, life-giving love and praise.

Syn. -- vital, vitalizing.

returning the life-giving humus to the land.
Louis Bromfield.


word: Lifeless
definition:
Lifeless

Life"less
a.
Destitute of life, or deprived of life; not containing, or inhabited by, living beings or vegetation; dead, or apparently dead; spiritless; powerless; dull; as, a lifeless carcass; lifeless matter; a lifeless desert; a lifeless wine; a lifeless story.
Life"less*ly, adv. -- Life"less*ness, n.


word: Lifelike
definition:
Lifelike

Life"like`
(līf"līk`)
a.
[Cf. Lively.]
Like a living being; resembling life; giving an accurate representation; as, a lifelike portrait.
Life"like`ness, n.
Poe.


word: lifeline
definition:
lifeline

lifeline
n.
1.
The anem given to one of the creases on the palm; its length is said by palmists to indicate how long one will live.

Syn. -- line of life, life line.

2.
A line or rope which raises or lowers a deep-sea diver.

3.
A line from a vessel that people in a body of water can cling to to save themselves from drowning.


word: Lifelong
definition:
Lifelong

Life"long
(līf"l&obreve_;ng`)
a.
[Life + long.  Cf. Livelong.]
Lasting or continuing through life.
Tennyson.


word: life-of-man
definition:
life-of-man

life-of-man
n.
An unarmed woody rhizomatous perennial plant (Aralia racemosa) distinguished from wild sarsaparilla by more aromatic roots and panicled umbels; it grows from Southeastern North America to Mexico.

Syn. -- American spikenard, petty morel, Aralia racemosa.


word: Life-preserver
definition:
Life-preserver

Life"-pre*serv`er
(līf"pre̝*zẽrv`ẽr)
n.
An apparatus, made in very various forms, and of various materials, for saving one from drowning by buoying up the body while in the water.
Life"-pre*serv`ing, a.


word: Life-saving
definition:
Life-saving

Life"-sav`ing
(līf"sāv`ĭng)
a.
That saves life, or is suited to save life, esp. from drowning; as, the life-saving service; a life-saving station.


word: life-sized
definition:
life-sized

life-size

life"-size`, life"-sized`
(līf"sīz`)
a.
Of full size; of the natural size; of the same size as an original; as, a life-size sculpture; a life-size portrait of the general.


word: life-sustaining
definition:
life-sustaining

life-sustaining
adj.
being the seat or source of life; performing a necessary function in the living body; as, the need for life-sustaining air and water.

Syn. -- vital.


word: Lifestring
definition:
Lifestring

Life"string"
(līf"strĭng`)
n.
A nerve, or string, that is imagined to be essential to life.
Daniel.


word: Lift
definition:
Lift

Lift
(lĭft)
n.
[AS. lyft air. See Loft.]
The sky; the atmosphere; the firmament.
[Obs. or Scot.]


word: Lift₂
definition:
Lift

Lift
(lĭft)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Lifted; p. pr. & vb. n. Lifting.]
[Icel. lypta, fr. lopt air; akin to Sw. lyfta to lift, Dan. löfte, G. lüften; -- prop., to raise into the air. See Loft, and cf. 1st Lift.]
1.
To move in a direction opposite to that of gravitation; to raise; to elevate; to bring up from a lower place to a higher; to upheave; sometimes implying a continued support or holding in the higher place; -- said of material things; as, to lift the foot or the hand; to lift a chair or a burden.

2.
To raise, elevate, exalt, improve, in rank, condition, estimation, character, etc.; -- often with up.

The Roman virtues lift up mortal man.
Addison.

Lest, being lifted up with pride.
1 Tim. iii. 6.

3.
To bear; to support.
[Obs.]
Spenser.

4.
To collect, as moneys due; to raise.

5.
[Perh. a different word, and akin to Goth. hliftus thief, hlifan to steal, L. clepere, Gr. kle`ptein.  Cf. Shoplifter.]
To steal; to carry off by theft (esp. cattle); as, to lift a drove of cattle.

&hand_; In old writers, lift is sometimes used for lifted.

He ne'er lift up his hand but conquered.
Shak.

To lift up, to raise or elevate; in the Scriptures, specifically, to elevate upon the cross. John viii. 28. -- To lift up the eyes. To look up; to raise the eyes, as in prayer. Ps. cxxi. 1. -- To lift up the feet, to come speedily to one's relief. Ps. lxxiv. 3. -- To lift up the hand. (a) To take an oath. Gen. xiv. 22. (b) To pray. Ps. xxviii. 2. (c) To engage in duty. Heb. xii. 12. -- To lift up the hand against, to rebel against; to assault; to attack; to injure; to oppress. Job xxxi. 21. -- To lift up one's head, to cause one to be exalted or to rejoice. Gen. xl. 13. Luke xxi. 28. -- To lift up the heel against, to treat with insolence or unkindness. John xiii.18. -- To lift up the voice, to cry aloud; to call out. Gen. xxi. 16.


word: Lift₃
definition:
Lift

Lift
(lĭft)
v. i.
1.
To try to raise something; to exert the strength for raising or bearing.

Strained by lifting at a weight too heavy.
Locke.

2.
To rise; to become or appear raised or elevated; as, the fog lifts; the land lifts to a ship approaching it.

3.
[See Lift, v. t., 5.]
To steal; also, to live by theft.
Spenser.


word: Lift₄
definition:
Lift

Lift
n.
1.
Act of lifting; also, that which is lifted.

2.
The space or distance through which anything is lifted; as, a long lift.
Bacon.

3.
Help; assistance, as by lifting.
Hence:
A ride in a vehicle, given by the vehicle's owner to another person as a favor -- usually in “give a lift” or “got a lift”; as, to give one a lift in a wagon; Jack gave me a lift into town.
[Colloq.]

The goat gives the fox a lift.
L'Estrange.
4.
That by means of which a person or thing lifts or is lifted
as:
(a)
A hoisting machine; an elevator; a dumb waiter.
[Chiefly Brit.]
(b)
An exercising machine.

5.
A rise; a degree of elevation; as, the lift of a lock in canals.

6.
A lift gate. See Lift gate, below.
[Prov. Eng.]

7.
(Naut.)
A rope leading from the masthead to the extremity of a yard below; -- used for raising or supporting the end of the yard.

8.
(Mach.)
One of the steps of a cone pulley.

9.
(Shoemaking)
A layer of leather in the heel.

10.
(Horology)
That portion of the vibration of a balance during which the impulse is given.
Saunier.

11.
A brightening of the spirits; encouragement; as, the campaign workers got a lift from the President's endorsement.

Dead lift. See under Dead. Swift. -- Lift bridge, a kind of drawbridge, the movable part of which is lifted, instead of being drawn aside. -- Lift gate, a gate that is opened by lifting. -- Lift hammer. See Tilt hammer. -- Lift lock, a canal lock. -- Lift pump, a lifting pump. -- Lift tenter (Windmills), a governor for regulating the speed by adjusting the sails, or for adjusting the action of grinding machinery according to the speed. -- Lift wall (Canal Lock), the cross wall at the head of the lock.


word: Lifter
definition:
Lifter

Lift"er
(lĭft"ẽr)
n.
1.
One who, or that which, lifts.

2.
(Founding)
A tool for lifting loose sand from the mold; also, a contrivance attached to a cope, to hold the sand together when the cope is lifted.


word: Lifting
definition:
Lifting

Lift"ing
a.
Used in, or for, or by, lifting.

Lifting bridge, a lift bridge. -- Lifting jack. See 2d Jack, 5. -- Lifting machine. See Health lift, under Health. -- Lifting pump. (Mach.) (a) A kind of pump having a bucket, or valved piston, instead of a solid piston, for drawing water and lifting it to a high level. (b) A pump which lifts the water only to the top of the pump, or delivers it through a spout; a lift pump. -- Lifting rod, a vertical rod lifted by a rock shaft, and imparting motion to a puppet valve; -- used in the engines of river steamboats. -- Lifting sail (Naut.), one which tends to lift a vessel's bow out of water, as jibs and square foresails.


word: Lig
definition:
Lig

Lig
(lĭg)
v. i.
[See Lie to be prostrate.]
To recline; to lie still.
[Obs. or Scot.]
Chaucer. Spenser.


word: Ligament
definition:
Ligament

Lig"a*ment
(lĭg"ȧ*ment)
n.
[L. ligamentum, fr. ligare to bind; cf. f. ligament.  Cf. Lien, n., Ligature.]
1.
Anything that ties or unites one thing or part to another; a bandage; a bond.
Hawthorne.

Interwoven is the love of liberty with every ligament of your hearts.
Washington.

2.
(Anat.)
(a)
A tough band or plate of dense, fibrous, connective tissue or fibrocartilage serving to unite bones or form joints.
(b)
A band of connective tissue, or a membranous fold, which supports or retains an organ in place; as, the gastrophrenic ligament, connecting the diaphragm and stomach.


word: Ligamentous
definition:
Ligamentous

Ligamental

{ Lig`a*men"tal (lĭg"ȧ*mĕn"tal), Lig`a*men"tous (lĭg"ȧ*mĕn"tŭs), }
a.
[Cf. F. ligamenteux.]
Composing a ligament; of the nature of a ligament; binding; as, a strong ligamentous membrane.


word: Ligan
definition:
Ligan

Li"gan
(lī"gan)
n.
[Cf. L. ligare to bind, to tie, ligamen band, bandage, E. ligament, or ligsam.]
(Law)
Goods sunk in the sea, with a buoy attached in order that they may be found again. See Jetsam and Flotsam.
[Written also lagan.]
Blackstone.


word: ligase
definition:
ligase

ligase
n.
(Biochem.)
An enzyme which catalyzes creation of a covalent bond between two substrates, resulting in a larger product which is a combination of the two starting materials;  especially, DNA ligase, an enzyme which creates a phosphate bond between 5′ and 3′ ends of a DNA chain, resulting in a longer chain of DNA.  DNA ligase is important in normal biosynthesis of DNA in the replication cycle of cells.


word: Ligate
definition:
Ligate

Li"gate
(lī"gāt)
v. t.
[L. ligatus, p. p. of ligare.]
1.
To tie with a ligature; to bind around; to bandage.

2.
(Molecular biology)
To concatenate two strands of (nucleic acid, usually DNA), in an end-to-end fashion, using a ligase.


word: Ligation
definition:
Ligation

Li*ga"tion
(li̝*gā"shŭn)
n.
[L. ligatio, fr. ligare to bind.  Cf. Liaison.]
1.
The act of binding, or the state of being bound.

2.
That which binds; bond; connection.

Tied with tape, and sealed at each fold and ligation.
Sir W. Scott.


word: Ligator
definition:
Ligator

Li*ga"tor
(li̝*gā"t&obreve_;r)
n.
[See Ligate.]
(Surg.)
An instrument for ligating, or for placing and fastening a ligature.


word: Ligature
definition:
Ligature

Lig"a*ture
(lĭg"ȧ*t&uuptack_;r; 135)
n.
[L. ligatura, fr. ligare, ligatum, to bind: cf. F. ligature.  Cf. Ally, League, Legatura, Liable, Ligament.]
1.
The act of binding.

2.
Anything that binds; a band or bandage.

3.
(Surg.)
(a)
A thread or string for tying the blood vessels, particularly the arteries, to prevent hemorrhage.
(b)
A thread or wire used to remove tumors, etc.

4.
The state of being bound or stiffened; stiffness; as, the ligature of a joint.

5.
Impotence caused by magic or charms.
[Obs.]

6.
(Mus.)
A curve or line connecting notes; a slur.

7.
(Print.)
A double character, or a type consisting of two or more letters or characters united, as æ, &filig, &ffllig.


word: Ligeance
definition:
Ligeance

Li"geance
(lē"jans)
n.
[OF. ligeance, ligance. See Liege.]
(O. Eng. Law)
The connection between sovereign and subject by which they were mutually bound, the former to protection and the securing of justice, the latter to faithful service; allegiance.
[Written also ligeancy and liegance.]
Chaucer.


word: Ligger
definition:
Ligger

Lig"ger
(lĭg"gẽr)
n.
1.
A baited line attached to a float, for night fishing. See Leger, a.

2.
See Ledger, 2.


word: Light
definition:
Light

Light
(līt)
n.
[OE. light, liht, AS. leíht; akin to OS. lioht, D. & G. licht, OHG. lioht, Goth. liuhaþ, Icel. lj&omacrs, L. lux light, lucere to shine, Gr. leyko`s white, Skr. ruc to shine. √122.  Cf. Lucid, Lunar, Luminous, Lynx.]
1.
That agent, force, or action in nature by the operation of which upon the organs of sight, objects are rendered visible or luminous.

&hand_; Light was regarded formerly as consisting of material particles, or corpuscules, sent off in all directions from luminous bodies, and traversing space, in right lines, with the known velocity of about 186,300 miles per second; but it is now generally understood to consist, not in any actual transmission of particles or substance, but in the propagation of vibrations or undulations in a subtile, elastic medium, or ether, assumed to pervade all space, and to be thus set in vibratory motion by the action of luminous bodies, as the atmosphere is by sonorous bodies. This view of the nature of light is known as the undulatory or wave theory; the other, advocated by Newton (but long since abandoned), as the corpuscular, emission, or Newtonian theory. A more recent theory makes light to consist in electrical oscillations, and is known as the electro-magnetic theory of light.

2.
That which furnishes, or is a source of, light, as the sun, a star, a candle, a lighthouse, etc.

Then he called for a light, and sprang in.
Acts xvi. 29.

And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night.
Gen. i. 16.

3.
The time during which the light of the sun is visible; day; especially, the dawn of day.

The murderer, rising with the light, killeth the poor and needy.
Job xxiv. 14.

4.
The brightness of the eye or eyes.

He seemed to find his way without his eyes;
For out o'door he went without their helps,
And, to the last, bended their light on me.
Shak.

5.
The medium through which light is admitted, as a window, or window pane; a skylight; in architecture, one of the compartments of a window made by a mullion or mullions.

There were windows in three rows, and light was against light in three ranks.
I Kings vii.4.

6.
Life; existence.

O, spring to light, auspicious Babe, be born !
Pope.

7.
Open view; a visible state or condition; public observation; publicity.

The duke yet would have dark deeds darkly answered; he would never bring them to light.
Shak.

8.
The power of perception by vision.

My strength faileth me; as for the light of my eyes, it also is gone from me.
Ps. xxxviii. 10.

9.
That which illumines or makes clear to the mind; mental or spiritual illumination; enlightenment; knowledge; information.

He shall never know
That I had any light of this from thee.
Shak.

10.
Prosperity; happiness; joy; felicity.

Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thy health shall spring forth speedily.
Is. lviii. 8.

11.
(Paint.)
The manner in which the light strikes upon a picture; that part of a picture which represents those objects upon which the light is supposed to fall; the more illuminated part of a landscape or other scene; -- opposed to shade.  Cf. Chiaroscuro.

12.
Appearance due to the particular facts and circumstances presented to view; point of view; as, to state things fairly and put them in the right light.

Frequent consideration of a thing . . . shows it in its several lights and various ways of appearance.
South.

13.
One who is conspicuous or noteworthy; a model or example; as, the lights of the age or of antiquity.

Joan of Arc,
A light of ancient France.
Tennyson.

14.
(Pyrotech.)
A firework made by filling a case with a substance which burns brilliantly with a white or colored flame; as, a Bengal light.

&hand_; Light is used figuratively to denote that which resembles physical light in any respect, as illuminating, benefiting, enlightening, or enlivening mankind.

Ancient lights (Law), Calcium light, Flash light, etc. See under Ancient, Calcium, etc. -- Light ball (Mil.), a ball of combustible materials, used to afford light; -- sometimes made so as to be fired from a cannon or mortar, or to be carried up by a rocket. -- Light barrel (Mil.), an empty power barrel pierced with holes and filled with shavings soaked in pitch, used to light up a ditch or a breach. --
Light dues (Com.), tolls levied on ships navigating certain waters, for the maintenance of lighthouses. -- Light iron, a candlestick. [Obs.] -- Light keeper, a person appointed to take care of a lighthouse or light-ship. -- Light money, charges laid by government on shipping entering a port, for the maintenance of lighthouses and light-ships. -- The light of the countenance, favor; kindness; smiles.
[1913 Webster]
Lord, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us. Ps. iv. 6.
-- Northern lights. See Aurora borealis, under Aurora. -- To bring to light, to cause to be disclosed. -- To come to light, to be disclosed. -- To see the light, to come into the light; hence, to come into the world or into public notice; as, his book never saw the light.  -- To stand in one's own light, to take a position which is injurious to one's own interest.


word: Light₂
definition:
Light

Light
(līt)
a.
[AS. leíht. See Light, n.]
[Compar. Lighter (līt"ẽr); superl. Lightest.]
1.
Having light; not dark or obscure; bright; clear; as, the apartment is light.

2.
White or whitish; not intense or very marked; not of a deep shade; moderately colored; as, a light color; a light brown; a light complexion.


word: Light₃
definition:
Light

Light
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Lighted (līt"ĕd) or Lit (lĭt); p. pr. & vb. n. Lighting.]
[AS. l&ymacr_;htan, līhtan, to shine. √122. See Light, n.]
1.
To set fire to; to cause to burn; to set burning; to ignite; to kindle; as, to light a candle or lamp; to light the gas; -- sometimes with up.

If a thousand candles be all lighted from one.
Hakewill.

And the largest lamp is lit.
Macaulay.

Absence might cure it, or a second mistress
Light up another flame, and put out this.
Addison.

2.
To give light to; to illuminate; to fill with light; to spread over with light; -- often with up.

Ah, hopeless, lasting flames! like those that burn
To light the dead.
Pope.

One hundred years ago, to have lit this theater as brilliantly as it is now lighted would have cost, I suppose, fifty pounds.
F. Harrison.

The sun has set, and Vesper, to supply
His absent beams, has lighted up the sky.
Dryden.

3.
To attend or conduct with a light; to show the way to by means of a light.

His bishops lead him forth, and light him on.
Landor.

To light a fire, to kindle the material of a fire.


word: Light₄
definition:
Light

Light
v. i.
1.
To become ignited; to take fire; as, the match will not light.

2.
To be illuminated; to receive light; to brighten; -- with up; as, the room light up very well.


word: Light₅
definition:
Light

Light
a.
[Compar. Lighter (līt"ẽr); superl. Lightest.]
[OE. light, liht, AS. līht, leíht; akin to D. ligt, G. leicht, OHG. līhti, Icel. lēttr, Dan. let, Sw. lätt, Goth. leihts, and perh. to L. levis (cf. Levity), Gr. 'elachy`s small, Skr. laghu light. √125.]
1.
Having little, or comparatively little, weight; not tending to be the center of gravity with force; not heavy.

These weights did not exert their natural gravity, . . . insomuch that I could not guess which was light or heavy whilst I held them in my hand.
Addison.

2.
Not burdensome; easy to be lifted, borne, or carried by physical strength; as, a light burden, or load.

Ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Matt. xi. 29, 30.

3.
Easy to be endured or performed; not severe; not difficult; as, a light affliction or task.
Chaucer.

Light sufferings give us leisure to complain.
Dryden.

4.
Easy to be digested; not oppressive to the stomach; as, light food; also, containing little nutriment.

5.
Not heavily armed; armed with light weapons; as, light troops; a troop of light horse.

6.
Not encumbered; unembarrassed; clear of impediments; hence, active; nimble; swift.

Unmarried men are best friends, best masters . . . but not always best subjects, for they are light to run away.
Bacon.

7.
Not heavily burdened; not deeply laden; not sufficiently ballasted; as, the ship returned light.

8.
Slight; not important; as, a light error.
Shak.

9.
Well leavened; not heavy; as, light bread.

10.
Not copious or heavy; not dense; not inconsiderable; as, a light rain; a light snow; light vapors.

11.
Not strong or violent; moderate; as, a light wind.

12.
Not pressing heavily or hard upon; hence, having an easy, graceful manner; delicate; as, a light touch; a light style of execution.

13.
Easy to admit influence; inconsiderate; easily influenced by trifling considerations; unsteady; unsettled; volatile; as, a light, vain person; a light mind.

There is no greater argument of a light and inconsiderate person than profanely to scoff at religion.
Tillotson.

14.
Indulging in, or inclined to, levity; wanting dignity or solemnity; trifling; gay; frivolous; airy; unsubstantial.

Seneca can not be too heavy, nor Plautus too light.
Shak.

Specimens of New England humor laboriously light and lamentably mirthful.
Hawthorne.

15.
Not quite sound or normal; somewhat impaired or deranged; dizzy; giddy.

Are his wits safe? Is he not light of brain ?
Shak.

16.
Easily bestowed; inconsiderately rendered.

To a fair semblance doth light faith annex.
Spenser.

17.
Wanton; unchaste; as, a woman of light character.

A light wife doth make a heavy husband.
Shak.

18.
Not of the legal, standard, or usual weight; clipped; diminished; as, light coin.

19.
Loose; sandy; easily pulverized; as, a light soil.

Light cavalry, Light horse (Mil.), light-armed soldiers mounted on strong and active horses. -- Light eater, one who eats but little. -- Light infantry, infantry soldiers selected and trained for rapid evolutions. -- Light of foot. (a) Having a light step. (b) Fleet. -- Light of heart, gay, cheerful. -- Light oil (Chem.), the oily product, lighter than water, forming the chief part of the first distillate of coal tar, and consisting largely of benzene and toluene. -- Light sails (Naut.), all the sails above the topsails, with, also, the studding sails and flying jib. Dana. -- Light sleeper, one easily wakened. -- Light weight, a prize fighter, boxer, wrestler, or jockey, who is below a standard medium weight.  Cf. Feather weight, under Feather. [Cant] -- To make light of, to treat as of little consequence; to slight; to disregard. -- To set light by, to undervalue; to slight; to treat as of no importance; to despise.


word: Light₇
definition:
Light

Light
v. t.
[See Light not heavy, and cf. Light to alight, and Lighten to make less heavy.]
To lighten; to ease of a burden; to take off.
[Obs.]

From his head the heavy burgonet did light.
Spenser.


word: Light₈
definition:
Light

Light
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Lighted (līt"ĕd) or Lit (lĭt); p. pr. & vb. n. Lighting.]
[AS. līhtan to alight orig., to relieve (a horse) of the rider's burden, to make less heavy, fr. līht light. See Light not heavy, and cf. Alight, Lighten to make light.]
1.
To dismount; to descend, as from a horse or carriage; to alight; -- with from, off, on, upon, at, in.

When she saw Isaac, she lighted off the camel.
Gen. xxiv. 64.

Slowly rode across a withered heath,
And lighted at a ruined inn.
Tennyson.

2.
To feel light; to be made happy.
[Obs.]

It made all their hearts to light.
Chaucer.

3.
To descend from flight, and rest, perch, or settle, as a bird or insect.

[The bee] lights on that, and this, and tasteth all.
Sir. J. Davies.

On the tree tops a crested peacock lit.
Tennyson.

4.
To come down suddenly and forcibly; to fall; -- with on or upon.

On me, me only, as the source and spring
Of all corruption, all the blame lights due.
Milton.

5.
To come by chance; to happen; -- with on or upon; formerly with into.

The several degrees of vision, which the assistance of glasses (casually at first lit on) has taught us to conceive.
Locke.

They shall light into atheistical company.
South.

And here we lit on Aunt Elizabeth,
And Lilia with the rest.
Tennyson.


word: light bulb
definition:
light bulb

lightbulb

lightbulb, light bulb
n.
A glass bulb with metallic contacts on the outside connected to a wire filament (usually tungsten) inside that emits light when heated by passage of electricity through the filament; -- used as the replaceable light-emitting component of an electric lamp, flashlight, lighting fixture, etc.

Syn. -- light bulb, bulb, incandescent lamp, electric light, electric-light bulb.


word: light-coloured
definition:
light-coloured

light-coloured
adj.
having low color saturation; pale-colored.

Syn. -- pale, palish, pastel, whitish, light-colored.


word: light-duty
definition:
light-duty

light-duty
adj.
not designed for heavy or demanding work; as, a light-duty detergent.  Opposite of heavy-duty.


word: lighted
definition:
lighted

lighted
adj.
1.
set afire or burning.

Syn. -- ignited, enkindled, kindled, lit.

2.
Illuminated by artificial light; as, lighted by a high-powered searchligh.

Syn. -- illuminated, lit, well-lighted.


word: Lighten
definition:
Lighten

Light"en
(līt"'n)
v. i.
[See Light to alight.]
To descend; to light.

O Lord, let thy mercy lighten upon us.
Book of Common Prayer [Eng. Ed.].


word: Lighten₂
definition:
Lighten

Light"en
(līt"'n)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Lightened (līt"'nd); p. pr. & vb. n. Lightening.]
[OE. lightenen. See Light to kindle, illuminate.]
1.
To burst forth or dart, as lightning; to shine with, or like, lightning; to display a flash or flashes of lightning; to flash.

This dreadful night,
That thunders, lightens, opens graves, and roars
As doth the lion.
Shak.

2.
To grow lighter; to become less dark or lowering; to brighten; to clear, as the sky.


word: Lighten₃
definition:
Lighten

Light"en
v. t.
[See Light to illuminate.]
1.
To make light or clear; to light; to illuminate; as, to lighten an apartment with lamps or gas; to lighten the streets.
[In this sense less common than light.]

A key of fire ran all along the shore,
And lightened all the river with a blaze.
Dryden.

2.
To illuminate with knowledge; to enlighten.
[In this sense less common than enlighten.]

Lighten my spirit with one clear heavenly ray.
Sir J. Davies.

3.
To emit or disclose in, or as in, lightning; to flash out, like lightning.

His eye . . . lightens forth
Controlling majesty.
Shak.

4.
To free from trouble and fill with joy.

They looked unto him, and were lightened.
Ps. xxxiv. 5.


word: Lighten₄
definition:
Lighten

Light"en
v. t.
[See Light not heavy.]
1.
To make lighter, or less heavy; to reduce in weight; to relieve of part of a load or burden; as, to lighten a ship by unloading; to lighten a load or burden.

2.
To make less burdensome or afflictive; to alleviate; as, to lighten the cares of life or the burden of grief.

3.
To cheer; to exhilarate.

Lightens my humor with his merry jests.
Shak.


word: Lighter
definition:
Lighter

Light"er
(līt"ẽr)
n.
One who, or that which, lights; as, a lighter of lamps.

cigarette lighter A small portable device which produces a flame when a button is pushed, carried on the person to allow one to light cigarettes conveniently, and taking the place of a match.  It may have a reservoir of liquid fuel conveyed by a wick, or may contain compressed butane as the fuel.


word: Lighter₂
definition:
Lighter

Light"er
n.
[D. ligter, fr. ligt light. See Light not heavy.]
(Naut.)
A large boat or barge, mainly used in unloading or loading vessels which can not reach the wharves at the place of shipment or delivery.

Lighter screw (Mach.), a screw for adjusting the distance between the stones in a grinding mill by raising or lowering the bridgetree.


word: Lighter₃
definition:
Lighter

Light"er
v. t.
To convey by a lighter, as to or from the shore; as, to lighter the cargo of a ship.


word: Lighterage
definition:
Lighterage

Light"er*age
(līt"ẽr*a̝j; 48)
n.
1.
The price paid for conveyance of goods on a lighter.

2.
The act of unloading into a lighter, or of conveying by a lighter.


word: Lighterman
definition:
Lighterman

Light"er*man
(līt"ẽr*măn)
n.
pl. Lightermen (līt"ẽr*men).
A person employed on, or who manages, a lighter.


word: Light-fingered
definition:
Light-fingered

Light"-fin`gered
(līt"fĭ&nsmacr_;`gẽrd)
a.
Dexterous in taking and conveying away; thievish; pilfering; addicted to petty thefts.
Fuller.


word: Light-footed
definition:
Light-footed

Light-foot

{ Light"-foot` (līt"fŏt`), Light"-foot`ed, }
a.
Having a light, springy step; moving lightly and nimbly; nimble in running or dancing; active; as, light-foot Iris.  Opposite of heavy-footed.
Tennyson.


word: light-green
definition:
light-green

light-green
adj.
Having a light green color, similar to the color of fresh grass.

Syn. -- green, greenish, dark-green.


word: light-haired
definition:
light-haired

light-haired
adj.
being or having light colored skin and hair; as, a certain light-haired girl.  Contrasted to brunet.
redheaded

Syn. -- blond, blonde.


word: Light-handed
definition:
Light-handed

Light"-hand`ed
(līt"hănd`ĕd)
a.
1.
(Naut.)
Not having a full complement of men; as, a vessel light-handed.

2.
having a metaphorically delicate touch.
heavy-handed

the translation is . . . light-handed . . . and generally unobtrusive.
New Yorker.


word: Light-headed
definition:
Light-headed

Light"-head`ed
(līt"hĕd`ĕd)
a.
1.
Disordered in the head; dizzy; feeling faint; delirious.
[wns=1]
Walpole.

Syn. -- faint, swooning, lightheaded.

2.
Thoughtless; heedless; volatile; unsteady; fickle; loose; lacking seriousness; given to frivolity; as, light-headed teenagers.
[wns=2]
Light-headed
Clarendon.

Syn. -- airheaded, dizzy, empty-headed, featherbrained, giddy, lightheaded, silly.


word: Light-hearted
definition:
Light-hearted

Light"-heart`ed
(līt"härt`ĕd)
a.
Free from grief or anxiety; gay; cheerful; merry.
Light"-heart`ed*ly, adv. -- Light"-heart`ed*ness, n.


word: Light-horseman
definition:
Light-horseman

Light"-horse`man
(līt"hôrs`man)
n.
pl. -men (līt"hôrs`men).
1.
A soldier who serves in the light horse. See under 5th Light.

2.
(Zool.)
A West Indian fish of the genus Ephippus, remarkable for its high dorsal fin and brilliant colors.


word: Lighthouse
definition:
Lighthouse

Light"house`
(līt"hous`)
n.
pl. Lighthouses (līt"houz`ĕz).
A tower or other building with a powerful light at top, erected at the entrance of a port, or at some important point on a coast, to serve as a guide to mariners at night; a pharos.


word: lightlessness
definition:
lightlessness

lightlessness
n.
total absence of light; blackness.

Syn. -- total darkness, blackness.


word: Lightly
definition:
Lightly

Light"ly
adv.
1.
With little weight; with little force; as, to tread lightly; to press lightly.

Yet shall thy grave with rising flowers be drest,
And the green turf lie lightly on thy breast.
Pope.

Him thus intent Ithuriel with his spear
Touched lightly.
Milton.

2.
Swiftly; nimbly; with agility.

So mikle was that barge, it might not lightly sail.
R. of Brunne.

Watch what thou seest and lightly bring me word.
Tennyson.

3.
Without deep impression.

The soft ideas of the cheerful note,
Lightly received, were easily forgot.
Prior.

4.
In a small degree; slightly; not severely.

At the first he lightly afflicted the land of Zebulun . . . and afterward did more grievously afflict her.
Is. ix. 1.

5.
With little effort or difficulty; easily; readily.

That lightly come, shall lightly go.
Old Proverb.

They come lightly by the malt, and need not spare it.
Sir W. Scott.

6.
Without reason, or for reasons of little weight.

Flatter not the rich, neither do thou willingly or lightly appear before great personages.
Jer. Taylor.

7.
Commonly; usually.
[Obs.]
Bp. Fisher.

The great thieves of a state are lightly the officers of the crown.
B. Jonson.

8.
Without dejection; cheerfully.
lightly
Shak.

9.
Without heed or care; with levity; gayly; airily.

Matrimony . . . is not by any to be enterprised, nor taken in hand, unadvisedly, lightly, or wantonly.
Book of Common Prayer [Eng. Ed.].

10.
Not chastely; wantonly.
Swift.


word: Lightman
definition:
Lightman

Light"man
(līt"măn)
n.
pl. -men (līt"mĕn).
A man who carries or takes care of a light.
T. Brown.


word: Light-minded
definition:
Light-minded

Light"-mind`ed
(līt"mīnd`ĕd)
a.
1.
Unsettled; unsteady; volatile; not considerate.

2.
showing inappropriate levity.
[wns=1]

Syn. -- flippant.


word: Lightness
definition:
Lightness

Light"ness
n.
[From Light not heavy.]
The state, condition, or quality, of being light or not heavy; buoyancy; levity; fickleness; nimbleness; delicacy; grace.


word: Lightness₂
definition:
Lightness

Light"ness
n.
[From Light bright.]
1.
Illumination, or degree of illumination; as, the lightness of a room.
Chaucer.

2.
Absence of depth or of duskiness in color; as, the lightness of a tint; lightness of complexion.


word: Lightning
definition:
Lightning

Light"ning
(līt"nĭng)
n.
[For lightening, fr. lighten to flash.]
1.
A discharge of atmospheric electricity, accompanied by a vivid flash of light, commonly from one cloud to another, sometimes from a cloud to the earth. The sound produced by the electricity in passing rapidly through the atmosphere constitutes thunder.

2.
The act of making bright, or the state of being made bright; enlightenment; brightening, as of the mental powers.
[R.]

Ball lightning, a rare form of lightning sometimes seen as a globe of fire moving from the clouds to the earth. -- Chain lightning, lightning in angular, zigzag, or forked flashes. -- Heat lightning, more or less vivid and extensive flashes of electric light, without thunder, seen near the horizon, esp. at the close of a hot day. -- Lightning arrester (Telegraphy), a device, at the place where a wire enters a building, for preventing injury by lightning to an operator or instrument. It consists of a short circuit to the ground interrupted by a thin nonconductor over which lightning jumps. Called also lightning discharger. -- Lightning bug (Zool.), a luminous beetle. See Firefly. -- Lightning conductor, a lightning rod. -- Lightning glance, a quick, penetrating glance of a brilliant eye. -- Lightning rod, a metallic rod set up on a building, or on the mast of a vessel, and connected with the earth or water below, for the purpose of protecting the building or vessel from lightning. -- Sheet lightning, a diffused glow of electric light flashing out from the clouds, and illumining their outlines. The appearance is sometimes due to the reflection of light from distant flashes of lightning by the nearer clouds.


word: Light-o'-love
definition:
Light-o'-love

Light"-o'-love`
(līt"o̝-lŭv`)
n.
1.
An old tune of a dance, the name of which made it a proverbial expression of levity, especially in love matters.
Nares.
light-o'-love
Shak.

2.
Hence: A light or wanton woman; a woman inconstant in love.  Called also light-of-love.
Beau. & Fl.


word: Lightroom
definition:
Lightroom

Light"room`
(līt"rōm`)
n.
A small room from which the magazine of a naval vessel is lighted, being separated from the magazine by heavy glass windows.


word: lights
definition:
lights

lights
(līts)
n. pl.
[So called from their lightness.]
The lungs of an animal or bird; -- sometimes coarsely applied to the lungs of a human being.


word: light-sensitive
definition:
light-sensitive

light-sensitive
adj.
1.
Affected by light; as, the light-sensitive pigments in the retina.

Syn. -- photosensitive.

2.
Hence:
(Chem.)
Decomposing under the influence of light; unstable when exposed to light; -- of chemical compounds.


word: Light-ship
definition:
Light-ship

lightship

light"ship`, Light"-ship`
(līt"shĭp`)
n.
(Naut.)
A vessel equipped like a lighthouse, carrying at the masthead a brilliant light, and moored off a shoal or place of dangerous navigation where a permanent lighthouse would be impracticable, to serve as a guide for mariners; as, the Ambrose lightship off New York was rammed and damaged in 1950 by the Santa Monica.


word: Lightsome
definition:
Lightsome

Light"some
(līt"sŭm)
a.
1.
Having light; lighted; not dark or gloomy; bright.

White walls make rooms more lightsome than black.
Bacon.

2.
Gay; airy; cheering; exhilarating.

That lightsome affection of joy.
Hooker.
Happiness may walk soberly in dark attire, as well as dance lightsomely in a gala dress.
Hawthorne.


word: Light-struck
definition:
Light-struck

Light"-struck`
a.
(Photog.)
Damaged by accidental exposure to light; light-fogged; -- said of plates or films.


word: Lightweight
definition:
Lightweight

Light"weight`
(līt"wāt`)
n.
One of less than average weight;
specif.:
In boxing, wrestling, etc., one weighing not more than 133 pounds (U. S. amateur rules 135 pounds, Eng. 140 pounds).
[wns=1]

2.
A person of small importance or mental ability, especially one who is unimportant but cheeky and presumptuous.
[wns=2]
[Colloq., Chiefly U. S.]

Syn. -- whippersnapper, jackanapes.

3.
a wrestler who weighs 139-154 pounds.
[wns=3]


word: Lightweight₂
definition:
Lightweight

Light"weight`
a.
1.
Light in weight, as a coin; specif., applied to a man or animal who is a lightweight.

2.
made of thin cloth, of relatively little weight; -- of clothing or fabrics; as, lightweight fabrics.
[wns=1]


word: Light-winged
definition:
Light-winged

Light"-winged`
(līt"wĭngd`)
a.
Having light and active wings; volatile; fleeting.
Shak.


word: Lightwood
definition:
Lightwood

Light"wood`
(līt"wŏd`)
n.
Pine wood abounding in pitch, used for torches in the Southern United States; pine knots, dry sticks, and the like, for kindling a fire quickly or making a blaze.


word: Light year
definition:
Light year

Light-year

Light-year, Light year
(Astron.)
1.
The distance over which light can travel in a year's time in a vacuum, 5.88 trillion miles (9.46 trillion kilometers); -- used as a unit in expressing stellar distances. It is more than 63,000 times as great as the distance from the earth to the sun.  The star nearest to the earth's sun is about 4 light years distant.

2.
a very large difference; -- used figuratively to express great differences (of distance, quality, time) in comparisons.
light-years


word: Lign-aloes
definition:
Lign-aloes

Lign`-al"oes
(līn`ăl"&omacrz or lĭg*năl"&omacrz)
n.
[OE. ligne aloes, fr. L. lignum wood + aloe aloe.]
1.
Aloes wood, or agallochum. See     Agallochum.

2.
A fragrant tree mentioned in the Bible.
Num. xxiv. 6.


word: Ligneous
definition:
Ligneous

Lig"ne*ous
(lĭg"ne̝*ŭs)
a.
[L. ligneus, fr. lignum wood.  Cf. Lignous.]
Made of wood; consisting of wood; of the nature of, or resembling, wood; woody.

It should be tried with shoots of vines and roots of red roses; for it may be they, being of a moreligneous nature, will incorporate with the tree itself.
Bacon.

Ligneous marble, wood coated or prepared so as to resemble marble.


word: Ligniferous
definition:
Ligniferous

Lig*nif"er*ous
(lĭg*nĭf"ẽr*ŭs)
a.
[L. lignifer; lignum wood + ferre to bear: cf. F.  lignifère.]
Yielding or producing wood.


word: Lignification
definition:
Lignification

Lig`ni*fi*ca"tion
(lĭg`nĭ*fĭ*kā"shŭn)
n.
[Cf. F. lignification. See Lignify.]
(Bot.)
A change in the character of a cell wall, by which it becomes harder. It is supposed to be due to an incrustation of lignin.


word: Lignify
definition:
Lignify

Lig"ni*fy
(lĭg"nĭ*fī)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Lignified (lĭg"nĭ*fīd); p. pr. & vb. n. Lignifying (lĭg"nĭ*fī`ĭng).]
[L. lignum wood + -fy: cf. F. lignifier.]
(Bot.)
To convert into wood or into a ligneous substance.


word: Lignin
definition:
Lignin

Lig"nin
(lĭg"nĭn)
n.
[L. lignum wood: cf. F. lignine.]
(Bot.)
A substance characterizing wood cells and differing from cellulose in its conduct with certain chemical reagents.

&hand_; Recent authors have distinguished four forms of this substance, naming them lignose, lignin, lignone, and lignireose.


word: Ligniperdous
definition:
Ligniperdous

Lig`ni*per"dous
(lĭg`nĭ*pẽr"dŭs)
a.
[L. lignum wood + perdere to destroy: cf. F.  ligniperde.]
(Zool.)
Wood-destroying; -- said of certain insects.


word: Lignite
definition:
Lignite

Lig"nite
(lĭg"nīt)
n.
[L. lignum wood: cf. F. lignite.]
(Min.)
Mineral coal retaining the texture of the wood from which it was formed, and burning with an empyreumatic odor. It is of more recent origin than the anthracite and bituminous coal of the proper coal series. Called also brown coal, wood coal.


word: Lignitic
definition:
Lignitic

Lig*nit"ic
(lĭg*nĭt"ĭk)
a.
Containing lignite; resembling, or of the nature of, lignite; as, lignitic clay.

Lignitic group. See Laramie Group.


word: Lignitiferous
definition:
Lignitiferous

Lig`ni*tif"er*ous
(lĭg`nĭ*tĭf"ẽr*ŭs)
a.
[Lignite + -ferous.]
Producing or containing lignite; lignitic.


word: Lignoceric
definition:
Lignoceric

Lig`no*cer"ic
(lĭg`no̝*sĕr"ĭk)
a.
[L. lignum wood + cera wax.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or designating, an acid of the formic acid series, found in the tar, wax, or paraffine obtained by distilling certain kinds of wood, as the beech.


word: lignotuber
definition:
lignotuber

Lig`no*tu"ber
(lĭg`n&omacr*tō"bẽr)
n.
(Bot.)
A woody swelling on a tree or shrub, usually contained entirely below or just above the surface of the ground, and having buds which enable the plant to survive cutting or a fire that destroys the portion of the plant above ground.  After such damage to the plant, sprouting commences from the lignotuber.


word: Lignous
definition:
Lignous

Lignose

{ Lig*nose" (lĭg*n&omacrs"), Lig"nous (lĭg"nŭs), }
a.
[L. lignosus, fr. lignum wood: cf. F. ligneux.  Cf. Ligneous.]
Ligneous.
[R.]
Evelyn.


word: Lignose
definition:
Lignose

Lig"nose`
(lĭg"n&omacrs`)
n.
1.
(Bot.)
See Lignin.

2.
(Chem.)
An explosive compound of wood fiber and nitroglycerin. See Nitroglycerin.


word: Lignum rhodium
definition:
Lignum rhodium

Lig"num rho"di*um
(lĭg"nŭm r&omacr"dĭ*ŭm)
[NL., fr. L. lignum wood + Gr. "ro`don a rose.]
(Bot.)
The fragrant wood of several shrubs and trees, especially of species of Rhodorhiza from the Canary Islands, and of the West Indian Amyris balsamifera.


word: Lignum-vitae
definition:
Lignum-vitae

Lig"num-vi"tae
(lĭg"nŭm vī"tē)
n.
[L., wood of life; lignum wood + vita, genitive vitæ, life.]
(Bot.)
A tree (Guaiacum officinale) found in the warm latitudes of America, from which the guaiacum of medicine is procured. Its wood is very hard and heavy, and is used for various mechanical purposes, as for the wheels of ships' blocks, cogs, bearings, and the like. See Guaiacum.

&hand_; In New Zealand the Metrosideros buxifolia is called lignum-vitæ, and in Australia a species of Acacia. The bastard lignum-vitæ is a West Indian tree (Sarcomphalus laurinus).


word: Ligroin
definition:
Ligroin

Lig"ro*in
(lĭg"ro̝*ĭn)
n.
A trade name applied somewhat indefinitely to some of the volatile products obtained in refining crude petroleum. It is a complex and variable mixture of several hydrocarbons, generally boils below 170° Fahr., and is more inflammable than safe kerosene. It is used as a solvent, as a carburetant for air gas, and for illumination in special lamps.


word: Ligsam
definition:
Ligsam

Lig"sam
(lĭg"sam)
n.
[Cf. D. liggen to lie, E. lie to be prostrate, and E. flotsam, jetsam, or ligan.]
Same as Ligan.
Brande & C.


word: Ligula
definition:
Ligula

Ligulae

Lig"u*la
(lĭg"&uuptack_;*lȧ)
n.
pl. L. Ligulæ (-lē), E. Ligulas (-lȧz).
[L., a little tongue. See Ligule.]
1.
(Bot.)
See Ligule.

2.
(Zool.)
(a)
The central process, or front edge, of the labium of insects. It sometimes serves as a tongue or proboscis, as in bees.
[See Illust.  under Labium, and Hymenoptera.]
(b)
A tongue-shaped lobe of the parapodia of annelids. See Parapodium.


word: Ligulated
definition:
Ligulated

Ligulate

{ Lig"u*late (lĭg"&uuptack_;*la̝t), Lig"u*la`ted (lĭg"&uuptack_;*lā`tĕd), }
a.
[Cf. F. ligulé. See Ligule, and cf. Lingulate.]
1.
(Bot.)
Like a bandage, or strap; strap-shaped.

2.
Composed of ligules.

Ligulate flower, a species of compound flower, the florets of which have their corollets flat, spreading out toward the end, with the base only tubular.


word: Ligule
definition:
Ligule

Lig"ule
(lĭg"&uuptack_;l)
n.
[L. ligula, lingula, little tongue, dim of lingua tongue : cf. F. ligule.]
1.
(Bot.)
(a)
The thin and scarious projection from the upper end of the sheath of a leaf of grass.
(b)
A strap-shaped corolla of flowers of Compositæ.

2.
(Anat.)
A band of white matter in the wall of fourth ventricle of the brain.


word: Liguliflorous
definition:
Liguliflorous

Lig`u*li*flo"rous
(lĭg`&uuptack_;*lĭ*fl&omacr"rŭs)
a.
[Ligule + L. flos, floris, a flower.]
(Bot.)
Bearing only ligulate flowers; -- said of a large suborder of composite plants, such as the dandelion, lettuce, hawkweed, etc.


word: Ligure
definition:
Ligure

Lig"ure
(lĭg"&uuptack_;r; 277)
n.
[L. ligurius, Gr. ligy`rion, liggoy`rion, ligkoy`rion, lygkoy`rion, equiv. to Heb. leshem.]
A kind of precious stone.

The third row a ligure, an agate, and an amethyst.
Ex. xxviii. 19.


word: Ligustrin
definition:
Ligustrin

Li*gus"trin
(li̝*gŭs"trĭn)
n.
(Chem.)
A bitter principle found in the bark of the privet (Ligustrum vulgare), and extracted as a white crystalline substance with a warm, bitter taste; -- called also ligustron.


word: Likable
definition:
Likable

Lik"a*ble
(līk"ȧ*b'l)
a.
Such as can be liked; such as to attract liking; easy to like; evoking sympathy; as, a likable person.
Thackeray.
[wns=1+2]

Syn. -- appealing, likable.

2.
disposed to please.
[wns=3]

Syn. -- amiable, agreeable, good-humored, good-humoured, likable.


word: Like
definition:
Like

Like
(līk)
a.
[Compar. Liker (līk"ẽr); superl. Likest.]
[OE. lik, ilik, gelic, AS. gelīc, fr. pref. ge- + līc body, and orig. meaning, having the same body, shape, or appearance, and hence, like; akin to OS. gilīk, D. gelijk, G. gleich, OHG. gilīh, Icel. līkr, glīkr, Dan. lig, Sw. lik, Goth. galeiks, OS. lik body, D. lijk, G. leiche, Icel. līk, Sw. lik, Goth. leik. The English adverbial ending-ly is from the same adjective.  Cf. Each, Such, Which.]
1.
Having the same, or nearly the same, appearance, qualities, or characteristics; resembling; similar to; similar; alike; -- often with in and the particulars of the resemblance; as, they are like each other in features, complexion, and many traits of character.

'T is as like you
As cherry is to cherry.
Shak.

Like master, like man.
Old Prov.

He giveth snow like wool; he scattereth the hoar-frost like ashes.
Ps. cxlvii. 16.

&hand_; To, which formerly often followed like, is now usually omitted.

2.
Equal, or nearly equal; as, fields of like extent.

More clergymen were impoverished by the late war than ever in the like space before.
Sprat.

3.
Having probability; affording probability; probable; likely.
[Likely is more used now.]
Shak.

But it is like the jolly world about us will scoff at the paradox of these practices.
South.

Many were not easy to be governed, nor like to conform themselves to strict rules.
Clarendon.

4.
Inclined toward; disposed to; as, to feel like taking a walk.

Had like (followed by the infinitive), had nearly; came little short of.

Had like to have been my utter overthrow.
Sir W. Raleigh

Ramona had like to have said the literal truth, . . . but recollected herself in time.
Mrs. H. H. Jackson.

Like figures (Geom.), similar figures.

&hand_; Like is used as a suffix, converting nouns into adjectives expressing resemblance to the noun; as, manlike, like a man; childlike, like a child; godlike, like a god, etc. Such compounds are readily formed whenever convenient, and several, as crescentlike, serpentlike, hairlike, etc., are used in this book, although, in some cases, not entered in the vocabulary. Such combinations as bell-like, ball-like, etc., are hyphened.


word: Like₂
definition:
Like

Like
n.
1.
That which is equal or similar to another; the counterpart; an exact resemblance; a copy.

He was a man, take him for all in all,
I shall not look upon his like again.
Shak.

2.
A liking; a preference; inclination; -- usually in pl.; as, we all have likes and dislikes.

3.
(Golf)
The stroke which equalizes the number of strokes played by the opposing player or side; as, to play the like.


word: Like₃
definition:
Like

Like
adv.
[AS. gelīce. See Like, a.]
1.
In a manner like that of; in a manner similar to; as, do not act like him.

He maketh them to stagger like a drunken man.
Job xii. 25.

&hand_; Like, as here used, is regarded by some grammarians as a preposition.

2.
In a like or similar manner.
Shak.

Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.
Ps. ciii. 13.

3.
Likely; probably.
Like
Shak.


word: Like₄
definition:
Like

Like
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Liked (līkt); p. pr. & vb. n. Liking.]
[OE. liken to please, AS. līcian, gelīcian, fr. gelīc. See Like, a.]
1.
To suit; to please; to be agreeable to.
[Obs.]

Cornwall him liked best, therefore he chose there.
R. of Gloucester.

I willingly confess that it likes me much better when I find virtue in a fair lodging than when I am bound to seek it in an ill-favored creature.
Sir P. Sidney.

2.
To be pleased with in a moderate degree; to approve; to take satisfaction in; to enjoy.

He proceeded from looking to liking, and from liking to loving.
Sir P. Sidney.

3.
To liken; to compare.
[Obs.]

Like me to the peasant boys of France.
Shak.


word: Like₅
definition:
Like

Like
(līk)
v. i.
1.
To be pleased; to choose.

He may either go or stay, as he best likes.
Locke.

2.
To have an appearance or expression; to look; to seem to be (in a specified condition).
[Obs.]

You like well, and bear your years very well.
Shak.

3.
To come near; to avoid with difficulty; to escape narrowly; as, he liked to have been too late.  Cf. Had like, under Like, a.
[Colloq.]

He probably got his death, as he liked to have done two years ago, by viewing the troops for the expedition from the wall of Kensington Garden.
Walpole.

To like of, to be pleased with. [Obs.] Massinger.


word: Likelihood
definition:
Likelihood

Like"li*hood
(līk"lĭ*hŏd)
n.
[Likely + -hood.]
1.
Appearance; show; sign; expression.
[Obs.]

What of his heart perceive you in his face
By any likelihood he showed to-day ?
Shak.

2.
Likeness; resemblance.
[Obs.]

There is no likelihood between pure light and black darkness, or between righteousness and reprobation.
Sir W. Raleigh.

3.
Appearance of truth or reality; probability; verisimilitude.
Tennyson.

4.
Statistical probability; probability of being true or of occurring in the future; as, the likelihood of being abducted by aliens is close to zero..


word: Likely
definition:
Likely

Like"ly
a.
[Compar. Likelier (līk"lĭ*ẽr); superl. Likeliest.]
[That is, like-like. See Like, a.]
1.
Worthy of belief; probable; credible; as, a likely story.

It seems likely that he was in hope of being busy and conspicuous.
Johnson.

2.
Having probability; having or giving reason to expect; -- followed by the infinitive; as, it is likely to rain.

3.
Similar; like; alike.
[Obs.]
Spenser.

4.
Such as suits; good-looking; pleasing; agreeable; handsome.
Shak. Milton.

5.
Having such qualities as make success probable; well adapted to the place; promising; as, a likely young man; a likely servant.

6.
Improbable; unlikely; -- used ironically; as, a likely story.
[informal]


word: Likely₂
definition:
Likely

Like"ly
adv.
In all probability; probably.

While man was innocent he was likely ignorant of nothing that imported him to know.
Glanvill.


word: Like-minded
definition:
Like-minded

Like"-mind`ed
(līk"mīnd`ĕd)
a.
Having a like disposition or purpose; of the same mind.
Tillotson.


word: Liken
definition:
Liken

Lik"en
(līk"'n)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Likened (līk"'nd); p. pr. & vb. n. Likening.]
[OE. liknen. See Like, a.]
1.
To allege, or think, to be like; to represent as like; to compare; as, to liken life to a pilgrimage.

Whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man which built his house upon a rock.
Matt. vii. 24.

2.
To make or cause to be like.
[R.]
Brougham.


word: Likeness
definition:
Likeness

Like"ness
n.
[AS. gelīcnes.]
1.
The state or quality of being like; similitude; resemblance; similarity; as, the likeness of the one to the other is remarkable.

2.
Appearance or form; guise.

An enemy in the likeness of a friend.
L'Estrange.

3.
That which closely resembles; a portrait.

[How he looked] the likenesses of him which still remain enable us to imagine.
Macaulay.

4.
A comparison; parable; proverb.
[Obs.]

He said to them, Soothly ye shall say to me this likeness, Leech, heal thyself.
Wyclif (Luke iv. 23).


word: Likerousness
definition:
Likerousness

Likerous

{Lik"er*ous (lĭk"ẽr*ŭs), a., Lik"er*ous*ness, n. }
[Obs.]
See Lickerish, Lickerishness.
Chaucer.


word: Likewise
definition:
Likewise

Like"wise`
(līk"wīz`)
adv. & conj.
[See Wise, n.]
In like manner; also; moreover; too. See Also.

Go, and do thou likewise.
Luke x. 37.

For he seeth that wise men die; likewise the fool and the brutish person perish.
Ps. xlix. 10.


word: Likin
definition:
Likin

Li"kin`
n.
[Written also lekin.]
[ Chin. li kin; li the thousandth part of a tael + kin money.]
A Chinese provincial tax levied at many inland stations upon imports or articles in transit.

“Likin,” which used to be regarded as illegal, as one of the many, “squeezes” imposed by the mandarins, is, in Jamieson's opinion, just as legal as any other form of taxation.
A. R. Colquhoun.


word: Liking
definition:
Liking

Lik"ing
(līk"ĭng)
p. a.
Looking; appearing; as, better or worse liking. See Like, to look.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.

Why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which are of your sort?
Dan. i. 10.


word: Liking₂
definition:
Liking

Lik"ing
n.
1.
The state of being pleasing; a suiting. See On liking, below.
[Obs. or Prov. Eng.]

2.
The state of being pleased with, or attracted toward, some thing or person; hence, inclination; desire; pleasure; preference; -- often with for, formerly with to; as, it is an amusement I have no liking for.

If the human intellect hath once taken a liking to any doctrine, . . . it draws everything else into harmony with that doctrine, and to its support.
Bacon.

3.
Appearance; look; figure; state of body as to health or condition.
[Archaic]

I shall think the worse of fat men, as long as I have an eye to make difference of men's liking.
Shak.

Their young ones are in good liking.
Job. xxxix. 4.

On liking, on condition of being pleasing to or suiting; also, on condition of being pleased with; as, to hold a place of service on liking; to engage a servant on liking. [Obs. or Prov. Eng.]

Would he be the degenerate scion of that royal line . . . to be a king on liking and on sufferance?
Hazlitt.


word: Lilac
definition:
Lilac

Li"lac
(lī"lak)
n.
[Also lilach.]
[Sp. lilac, lila, Ar. līlak, fr. Per. līlaj, līlanj, līlang, nīlaj, nīl, the indigo plant, or from the kindred līlak bluish, the flowers being named from the color.  Cf. Anil.]
1.
(Bot.)
A shrub of the genus Syringa. There are six species, natives of Europe and Asia.  Syringa vulgaris, the common lilac, and Syringa Persica, the Persian lilac, are frequently cultivated for the fragrance and beauty of their purplish or white flowers. In the British colonies various other shrubs have this name.

2.
A light purplish color like that of the flower of the purplish lilac.

California lilac (Bot.), a low shrub with dense clusters of purplish flowers (Ceanothus thyrsiflorus).


word: Liliaceous
definition:
Liliaceous

Lil`i*a"ceous
(lĭl`ĭ*ā"shŭs)
a.
[L. liliaceus, fr. lilium lily. See Lily.]
(Bot.)
(a)
Of or pertaining to a natural order of which the lily, tulip, and hyacinth are well-known examples.
(b)
Like the blossom of a lily in general form.


word: Lilial
definition:
Lilial

Lil"i*al
(lĭl"ĭ*al)
a.
(Bot.)
Having a general resemblance to lilies or to liliaceous plants.


word: Lilied
definition:
Lilied

Lil"ied
(lĭl"ĭd)
a.
Covered with, or having many, lilies.

By sandy Ladon's lilied banks.
Milton.


word: Liliidae
definition:
Liliidae

Liliidae
prop. n.
one of four subclasses or superorders of Monocotyledones; it comprises 17 families including: Liliaceae; Alliaceae; Amaryllidaceae; Iridaceae; Orchidaceae; Trilliaceae.

Syn. -- subclass Liliidae.


word: Liliopsida
definition:
Liliopsida

Liliopsida
n.
A class comprising seed plants that produce an embryo with a single cotyledon and parallel-veined leaves.  It includes the grasses; lilies; palms; and orchids.  It is divided into four subclasses or superorders: Alismatidae; Arecidae; Commelinidae; and Liliidae.

Syn. -- Monocotyledones, class Monocotyledones, Monocotyledonae, class Monocotyledonae, class Liliopsida.


word: Lilliputian
definition:
Lilliputian

Lil`li*pu"tian
(lĭl`lĭ*pū"shan)
n.
1.
One belonging to a very diminutive race described in Swift's “Voyage to Lilliput” or “Gulliver's Travels”.

2.
Hence:
A person or thing of very small size.


word: Lilliputian₂
definition:
Lilliputian

Lil`li*pu"tian
a.
1.
Of or pertaining to the imaginary island of Lilliput described by Swift, or to its inhabitants.

2.
Hence:
Of very small size; diminutive; insignificant; dwarfed.


word: Lilly-pilly
definition:
Lilly-pilly

Lil"ly-pil`ly
(lĭl"l&ybreve_;-pĭl`l&ybreve_;)
n.
(Bot.)
An Australian myrtaceous tree (Eugenia Smithii), having smooth ovate leaves, and panicles of small white flowers. The wood is hard and fine-grained.


word: Lilt
definition:
Lilt

Lilt
(lĭlt)
v. i.
[Cf. Norw. lilla, lirla, to sing in a high tone.]
1.
To do anything with animation and quickness, as to skip, fly, or hop.
[Prov. Eng.]
Wordsworth.

2.
To sing cheerfully.
[Scot.]


word: Lilt₂
definition:
Lilt

Lilt
v. t.
To utter with spirit, animation, or gayety; to sing with spirit and liveliness.

A classic lecture, rich in sentiment,
With scraps of thundrous epic lilted out
By violet-hooded doctors.
Tennyson.


word: Lilt₃
definition:
Lilt

Lilt
n.
1.
Animated, brisk motion; spirited rhythm; sprightliness.

The movement, the lilt, and the subtle charm of the verse.
F. Harrison.

2.
A lively song or dance; a cheerful tune.

The housewife went about her work, or spun at her wheel, with a lilt upon her lips.
J. C. Shairp.


word: lilting
definition:
lilting

lilting
adj.
having a light rhythmical cadence; as, an easy lilting stride; a lilting melody.

Syn. -- swinging, swingy, tripping.


word: Lily
definition:
Lily

Lil"y
(lĭl"&ybreve_;)
n.
pl. Lilies (lĭl"ĭz).
[AS. lilie, L. lilium, Gr. lei`rion.  Cf. Flower-de-luce.]
1.
(Bot.)
A plant and flower of the genus Lilium, endogenous bulbous plants, having a regular perianth of six colored pieces, six stamens, and a superior three-celled ovary.

&hand_; There are nearly fifty species, all found in the North Temperate zone. Lilium candidum and Lilium longiflorum are the common white lilies of gardens; Lilium Philadelphicum is the wild red lily of the Atlantic States. Lilium Chalcedonicum is supposed to be the “lily of the field” in our Lord's parable; Lilium auratum is the great gold-banded lily of Japan.

2.
(Bot.)
A name given to handsome flowering plants of several genera, having some resemblance in color or form to a true lily, as Pancratium, Crinum, Amaryllis, Nerine, etc.

3.
That end of a compass needle which should point to the north; -- so called as often ornamented with the figure of a lily or fleur-de-lis.

But sailing further, it veers its lily to the west.
Sir T. Browne. 

4.
(Auction Bridge)
A royal spade; -- usually in pl. See Royal spade, below.

African lily (Bot.), the blue-flowered Agapanthus umbellatus. -- Atamasco lily (Bot.), a plant of the genus Zephyranthes (Zephyranthes Atamasco), having a white and pink funnelform perianth, with six petal-like divisions resembling those of a lily. Gray. -- Blackberry lily (Bot.), the Pardanthus Chinensis, the black seeds of which form a dense mass like a blackberry. -- Bourbon lily (Bot.), Lilium candidum. See Illust. -- Butterfly lily. (Bot.) Same as Mariposa lily, in the Vocabulary. -- Lily beetle (Zool.), a European beetle (Crioceris merdigera) which feeds upon the white lily. -- Lily daffodil (Bot.), a plant of the genus Narcissus, and its flower. -- Lily encrinite (Paleon.), a fossil encrinite, esp. Encrinus liliiformis. See Encrinite. -- Lily hyacinth (Bot.), a plant of the genus Hyacinthus. -- Lily iron, a kind of harpoon with a detachable head of peculiar shape, used in capturing swordfish.

 -- Lily of the valley (Bot.), a low perennial herb (Convallaria majalis), having a raceme of nodding, fragrant, white flowers.

 -- Lily pad, the large floating leaf of the water lily. [U. S.] Lowell. -- Tiger lily (Bot.), Lilium tigrinum, the sepals of which are blotched with black. -- Turk's-cap lily (Bot.) Lilium Martagon, a red lily with recurved sepals; also, the similar American lily, Lilium superbum. -- Water lily (Bot.), the Nymphæa, a plant with floating roundish leaves, and large flowers having many petals, usually white, but sometimes pink, red, blue, or yellow. [See Illust. of Nymphæa.]


word: lilyturf
definition:
lilyturf

lilyturf
n.
Asiatic perennial tufted herb (Liriope muscari) with grasslike evergreen foliage and clusters of dark mauve grapelike flowers; grown as ground cover.

Syn. -- lily turf, Liriope muscari.


word: Lilywort
definition:
Lilywort

Lil"y*wort`
(lĭl"&ybreve_;*wûrt`)
n.
(Bot.)
Any plant of the Lily family or order.
Lindley.


word: Lima
definition:
Lima

Li"ma
(lē"mȧ or lī"mȧ)
n.
The capital city of Peru, in South America.

Lima bean. (Bot.) (a) A variety of climbing or pole bean (Phaseolus lunatus), which has very large flattish seeds. (b) The seed of this plant, much used for food. -- Lima wood (Bot.), the beautiful dark wood of the South American tree Cæsalpinia echinata.


word: Limaceous
definition:
Limaceous

Li*ma"ceous
(li̝*mā"shŭs)
a.
[L. limax, limacis, slug, snail: cf. F. limacé.]
(Zool.)
Pertaining to, or like, Limax, or the slugs.


word: Limacina
definition:
Limacina

Lim`a*ci"na
(lĭm`ȧ*sī"nȧ)
n.
[NL., From L. limax, limacis, a slug.]
(Zool.)
A genus of small spiral pteropods, common in the Arctic and Antarctic seas. It contributes to the food of the right whales.


word: Limacon
definition:
Limacon

Li`ma`çon"
(le̝`mȧ`sôN")
n.
[F. limaçon, lit., a snail.]
(Geom.)
A curve of the fourth degree, invented by Pascal. Its polar equation is r = a cos θ + b.


word: Limaille
definition:
Limaille

Li"maille
(lī"māl; F. le̝`mä"y')
n.
[F., fr. limer to file. See Limation.]
Filings of metal.
[Obs.]
lymaille
Chaucer.


word: Liman
definition:
Liman

Li"man
(lī"man)
n.
[F. limon, fr. L. limus slime.]
The deposit of slime at the mouth of a river; slime.


word: Limation
definition:
Limation

Li*ma"tion
(li̝*mā"shŭn)
n.
[L. limatus, p. p. of limare to file, fr. lima file : cf. F. limation.]
The act of filing or polishing.


word: Limature
definition:
Limature

Li"ma*ture
(lī"mȧ*t&uuptack_;r; 135)
n.
[L. limatura. See Limation.]
1.
The act of filing.

2.
That which is filed off; filings.
Johnson.


word: Limax
definition:
Limax

Li"max
(lī"măks)
n.
[L.]
(Zool.)
A genus of airbreathing mollusks, including the common garden slugs. They have a small rudimentary shell. The breathing pore is on the right side of the neck. Several species are troublesome in gardens. See Slug.


word: Limb
definition:
Limb

Limb
(lĭm)
n.
[OE. lim, AS. lim; akin to Icel. limr limb, lim branch of a tree, Sw. & Dan. lem limb; cf. also AS. lið, OHG. lid, gilid, G. glied, Goth. liþus.  Cf. Lith, Limber.]
1.
A part of a tree which extends from the trunk and separates into branches and twigs; a large branch.

2.
An arm or a leg of a human being; a leg, arm, or wing of an animal.

A second Hector for his grim aspect,
And large proportion of his strong-knit limbs.
Shak.

3.
A thing or person regarded as a part or member of, or attachment to, something else.
Shak.

That little limb of the devil has cheated the gallows.
Sir W. Scott.

4.
An elementary piece of the mechanism of a lock.

Limb of the law, a lawyer or an officer of the law. [Colloq.] Landor.


word: Limb₃
definition:
Limb

Limb
n.
[L. limbus border.  Cf. Limbo, Limbus.]
A border or edge, in certain special uses.
(a)
(Bot.)
The border or upper spreading part of a monopetalous corolla, or of a petal, or sepal; blade.
(b)
(Astron.)
The border or edge of the disk of a heavenly body, especially of the sun and moon.
(c)
The graduated margin of an arc or circle, in an instrument for measuring angles.


word: Limbat
definition:
Limbat

Lim"bat
(lĭm"băt)
n.
[Etymol. uncertain.]
A cooling periodical wind in the Isle of Cyprus, blowing from the northwest from eight o'clock, A. M., to the middle of the day or later.


word: Limbate
definition:
Limbate

Lim"bate
(lĭm"ba̝t)
a.
[L. limbatus, fr. limbus border, edge. See Limbus.]
(Bot. &  Zool.)
Bordered, as when one color is surrounded by an edging of another.


word: Limbed
definition:
Limbed

Limbed
(lĭmd)
a.
Having limbs; -- much used in composition; as, large-limbed; short-limbed.

Innumerous living creatures, perfect forms,
Limbed and full grown.
Milton.


word: Limber
definition:
Limber

Lim"ber
(lĭm"bẽr)
n.
[For limmer, Icel. limar branches, boughs, pl. of lim; akin to E. limb. See Limb a branch.]
1.
pl.
The shafts or thills of a wagon or carriage.
[Prov. Eng.]

2.
(Mil.)
The detachable fore part of a gun carriage, consisting of two wheels, an axle, and a shaft to which the horses are attached. On top is an ammunition box upon which the cannoneers sit.

3.
pl.
(Naut.)
Gutters or conduits on each side of the keelson to afford a passage for water to the pump well.

Limber boards (Naut.), short pieces of plank forming part of the lining of a ship's floor immediately above the timbers, so as to prevent the limbers from becoming clogged. -- Limber box or Limber chest (Mil.), a box on the limber for carrying ammunition. -- Limber rope, Limber chain or Limber clearer (Naut.), a rope or chain passing through the limbers of a ship, by which they may be cleared of dirt that chokes them. Totten. -- Limber strake (Shipbuilding), the first course of inside planking next the keelson.


word: Limber₂
definition:
Limber

Lim"ber
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Limbered (lĭm"bẽrd); p. pr. & vb. n. Limbering.]
(Mil.)
To attach to the limber; as, to limber a gun.

To limber up, to change a gun carriage into a four-wheeled vehicle by attaching the limber.


word: Limber₃
definition:
Limber

Lim"ber
a.
[Akin to limp, a. √125.  See Limp, a.]
Easily bent; flexible; pliant; yielding.
Milton.

The bargeman that doth row with long and limber oar.
Turbervile.


word: limbic system
definition:
limbic system

limbic system
n.
(Anatomy, Neurophysiology)
A group of neural structures in the brain below the cerebral cortex, centered on the hypothalamus and including the hippocampus and amygdala, involved with control of emotion, motivation, memory, and some homeostatic regulatory processes.

At the most ancient part of the human brain lies the spinal cord; the medulla and pons, which comprise the hindbrain; and the midbrain.  This cobination of spinal cord, hindbrain, and midbrain MacLean calls the neural chassis.  It contains the basic neural machinery for reproduction and self-preservation, . . .  MacLean has distinguished three sorts of [more recent brain structures controlling] the neural chassis.  The most ancient of them surround the midbrain. . . .  We share it with the other mammals and the reptiles.  It probably evolved several hundred million years ago.  MacLean calls it the reptilian or R-complex.  Surrounding the R-complex is the limbic system, so called because it borders on the underlying brain.  (Our arms and legs are called limbs because they are peripheral to the rest of the body.)  We share the limbic system with other mammals, but not, in its full elaboration, with the reptiles.  It probably evolved more than one hundred fifty million years ago.  Finally, surrounding the rest of the brain and clearly the most recent evolutionary accretion, is the neocortex.
Carl Sagan (The Dragons of Eden, New York, Random House, 1977).


word: Limbus
definition:
Limbus

Limbo

{ Lim"bo (lĭm"bo̝), Lim"bus (lĭm"bŭs), }
n.
[L. limbus border, edge in limbo on the border.  Cf. Limb border.]
1.
(Scholastic Theol.)
An spiritual region where certain classes of souls were supposed to await the last judgment.

As far from help as Limbo is from bliss.
Shak.

A Limbo large and broad, since called
The Paradise of fools.
Milton.

&hand_; The limbus patrum was considered as a place for the souls of good men who lived before the coming of our Savior. The limbus infantium was said to be a similar place for the souls of unbaptized infants.  To these was added, in the popular belief, the limbus fatuorum, or fool's paradise, regarded as a receptacle of all vanity and nonsense.

2.
Hence: Any real or imaginary place of restraint or confinement; a prison; as, to put a man in limbo.

3.
Hence:
A state of waiting, or uncertainty, in which final judgment concerning the outcome of a decision is postponed, perhaps indefinitely; neglect for an indefinite time; as, the proposal was left in limbo while opponents and proponents refused to compromise.

4.
(Anat.)
A border or margin; as, the limbus of the cornea.


word: Limbo
definition:
Limbo

Lim"bo
(lĭm"bo̝)
n.
[Jamaican E. limba to bend, fr. E. limber (1950) MW10]
A West Indian dance contest, in which participants must dance under a pole which is lowered successively until only one participant can successfully pass under, without falling. It is  often performed at celebrations, such as weddings.


word: Limbous
definition:
Limbous

Lim"bous
(lĭm"bŭs)
a.
[See Limbus.]
(Anat.)
With slightly overlapping borders; -- said of a suture.


word: Limburger cheese
definition:
Limburger cheese

Limburger

Limburg cheese

{Lim"burg cheese, Lim"burg*er, n., Lim"burg*er cheese}
(?)
n.
A soft cheese made in the Belgian province of Limburg (Limbourg), and usually not eaten until the curing has developed a peculiar and, to most people, unpleasant odor.


word: Lime₃
definition:
Lime

Lime
n.
[F. lime; of Persian origin. See Lemon.]
1.
(Bot.)
The fruit of the Citrus aurantifolia, allied to the lemon, but greener in color; also, the tree which bears it.
The term lime was formerly also applied to variants of the closely related citron, of which there are two varieties, Citrus Medica, var. acida which is intensely sour, and the sweet lime (Citrus Medica, var. Limetta) which is only slightly sour.  See citron.

2.
The color of the lime{1}, a yellowish-green.


word: Lime₄
definition:
Lime

Lime
n.
[AS. līm; akin to D. lijm, G. leim, OHG. līm, Icel. līm, Sw. lim, Dan. liim, L. limus mud, linere to smear, and E. loam. √126.  Cf. Loam, Liniment.]
1.
Birdlime.

Like the lime
That foolish birds are caught with.
Wordsworth.

2.
(Chem.)
Oxide of calcium, CaO; the white or gray, caustic substance, usually called quicklime, obtained by calcining limestone or shells, the heat driving off carbon dioxide and leaving lime. It develops great heat when treated with water, forming slaked lime, and is an essential ingredient of cement, plastering, mortar, etc.

&hand_; Lime is the principal constituent of limestone, marble, chalk, bones, shells, etc.

Caustic lime, Calcium hydroxide or slaked lime; also, in a less technical sense, calcium oxide or quicklime. -- Lime burner, one who burns limestone, shells, etc., to make lime. -- Lime pit, a limestone quarry. -- Lime rod, Lime twig, a twig smeared with birdlime; hence, that which catches; a snare. Chaucer.


word: Lime₅
definition:
Lime

Lime
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Limed (līmd); p. pr. & vb. n. Liming.]
[Cf. AS. gelīman to glue or join together. See Lime a viscous substance.]
1.
To smear with a viscous substance, as birdlime.

These twigs, in time, will come to be limed.
L'Estrange.

2.
To entangle; to insnare.

We had limed ourselves
With open eyes, and we must take the chance.
Tennyson.

3.
To treat with lime, or oxide or hydrate of calcium; to manure with lime; as, to lime hides for removing the hair; to lime sails in order to whiten them; to lime the lawn to decrease acidity of the soil.

Land may be improved by draining, marling, and liming.
Sir J. Child.

4.
To cement.
lime
Shak.


word: Limehound
definition:
Limehound

Lime"hound`
(līm"hound`)
n.
[Lime a leash + hound.]
A dog used in hunting the wild boar; a leamer.
Spenser.


word: Limekiln
definition:
Limekiln

Lime"kiln`
(līm"kĭln`)
n.
A kiln or furnace in which limestone or shells are burned and reduced to lime.


word: limelight
definition:
limelight

lime light

lime" light`, lime"light`
An intense light produced by heating lime.  See Calcium light under Calcium.


word: limelight₂
definition:
limelight

lime"light`
n.
(Theat.)
That part of the stage upon which the limelight is cast, usually where the most important action is progressing or where the leading player or players are placed and upon which the attention of the spectators is therefore concentrated.
Hence,
a conspicuous position before the public; the center of public attention; -- used mostly in the phrase in the limelight; as, politicians who are never happy except in the limelight.


word: limen
definition:
limen

limen
n.
(Psychol.)
a threshhold, especially the point where a psychological or physiological effect begins to occur.


word: Limenean
definition:
Limenean

Li*men"e*an
(le̝*mĕn"e̝*an)
a.
Of or pertaining to Lima, or to the inhabitants of Lima, in Peru.
n. A native or inhabitant of Lima.


word: Limenitis
definition:
Limenitis

Limenitis
n.
A genus comprising mainly dark northern butterflies with white wing bars.

Syn. -- genus Limenitis.


word: Limerick
definition:
Limerick

Lim"er*ick
(lĭm"ẽr*ĭk)
n.
[Said to be from a song with the same verse construction, current in Ireland, the refrain of which  contains the place name Limerick.]
A humorous, often nonsensical, and sometimes risqé poem of five anapestic lines, of which  lines 1, 2, and 5 are of three feet, and rhyme, and lines 3 and 4 are of two feet, and rhyme.
It often begins with "There once was a . . ." or "There was a . . ."; as --
There was a young lady, Amanda,
Whose Ballades Lyriques were quite fin de
Siècle, I deem
But her Journal Intime
Was what sent her papa to Uganda.


word: Limestone
definition:
Limestone

Lime"stone`
(līm"st&omacrn`)
n.
A rock consisting chiefly of calcium carbonate or carbonate of lime. It sometimes contains also magnesium carbonate, and is then called magnesian or dolomitic limestone. Crystalline limestone is called marble.


word: Lime-twigged
definition:
Lime-twigged

Lime"-twigged`
(līm"twĭgd`)
a.
Beset with snares; insnared, as with birdlime.
L. Addison.


word: Limewater
definition:
Limewater

Lime"wa`ter
(līm"w&asuml_;`tẽr)
n.
Water impregnated with lime; esp., an artificial solution of lime for medicinal purposes.


word: Limicolae
definition:
Limicolae

Li*mic"o*læ
(li̝*mĭk"o̝*lē)
n. pl.
[L. limicola a dweller in the mud; limus mud + colere to dwell.]
(Zool.)
A group of shore birds, embracing the plovers, sandpipers, snipe, curlew, etc.; the Grallæ.


word: Limicoline
definition:
Limicoline

Li*mic"o*line
(li̝*mĭk"o̝*lĭn)
a.
(Zool.)
Shore-inhabiting; of or pertaining to the Limicolæ.


word: liminal
definition:
liminal

liminal
adj.
1.
of or pertaining to a limen, especially a sensory threshhold.
See liminality.

2.
marginally perceptible.


word: liminality
definition:
liminality

liminality
n.
(Anthropology)
that temporary state during a rite of passage when the participant lacks social status or rank, is required to follow specified forms of conduct, and is expected to show obedience and humility.
RHU


word: Limit
definition:
Limit

Lim"it
(lĭm"ĭt)
n.
[From L. limes, limitis: cf. F. limite; -or from E. limit, v.  See Limit, v. t.]
1.
That which terminates, circumscribes, restrains, or confines; the bound, border, or edge; the utmost extent; as, the limit of a walk, of a town, of a country; the limits of human knowledge or endeavor.

As eager of the chase, the maid
Beyond the forest's verdant limits strayed.
Pope.

2.
The space or thing defined by limits.

The archdeacon hath divided it
Into three limits very equally.
Shak.

3.
That which terminates a period of time; hence, the period itself; the full time or extent.

The dateless limit of thy dear exile.
Shak.

The limit of your lives is out.
Shak.

4.
A restriction; a check; a curb; a hindrance.

I prithee, give no limits to my tongue.
Shak.

5.
(Logic & Metaph.)
A determining feature; a distinguishing characteristic; a differentia.

6.
(Math.)
A determinate quantity, to which a variable one continually approaches, and may differ from it by less than any given difference, but to which, under the law of variation, the variable can never become exactly equivalent.

Elastic limit. See under Elastic. -- Prison limits, a definite, extent of space in or around a prison, within which a prisoner has liberty to go and come.


word: Limit₂
definition:
Limit

Lim"it
(lĭm"ĭt)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Limited; p. pr. & vb. n. Limiting.]
[F. limiter, L. limitare, fr.  limes, limitis, limit; prob. akin to limen threshold, E. eliminate; cf. L. limus sidelong.]
To apply a limit to, or set a limit for; to terminate, circumscribe, or restrict, by a limit or limits; as, to limit the acreage of a crop; to limit the issue of paper money; to limit one's ambitions or aspirations; to limit the meaning of a word.

Limiting parallels (Astron.), those parallels of latitude between which only an occultation of a star or planet by the moon, in a given case, can occur.


word: Limit₃
definition:
Limit

Lim"it
v. i.
To beg, or to exercise functions, within a certain limited region; as, a limiting friar.
[Obs.]


word: Limitaneous
definition:
Limitaneous

Lim`i*ta"ne*ous
(lĭm`ĭ*tā"ne̝*ŭs)
a.
[L. limitaneus. See Limit, v. t.]
Of or pertaining to a limit.
[Obs.]


word: Limitary
definition:
Limitary

Lim"i*ta*ry
(lĭm"ĭ*ta̝*r&ybreve_;)
a.
[L. limitaris. See Limit , v. t.]
1.
Placed at the limit, as a guard.
limitary
Milton.

2.
Confined within limits; limited in extent, authority, power, etc.
limitary
Trench.

The poor, limitary creature calling himself a man of the world.
De Quincey.

3.
Limiting, or tending to limit; restrictive.

Doctrines limitary, if not subversive of the papal power.
Milman.


word: Limitary₂
definition:
Limitary

Lim"i*ta*ry
n.
pl. limitaries (lĭm"ĭ*ta̝*rĭz).
1.
That which serves to limit; a boundary; border land.
[Obs.]
Fuller.

2.
A limiter. See Limiter, 2.


word: Limitate
definition:
Limitate

Lim"i*tate
(lĭm"ĭ*ta̝t)
a.
[L. limitatus, p. p. of limitare to limit. See Limit, v. t. ]
Bounded by a distinct line.


word: Limitation
definition:
Limitation

Lim`i*ta"tion
(-tā"shŭn)
n.
[L. limitatio: cf. F. limitation. See Limit, v. t.]
1.
The act of limiting; the state or condition of being limited; as, the limitation of his authority was approved by the council.

They had no right to mistake the limitation . . . of their own faculties, for an inherent limitation of the possible modes of existence in the universe.
J. S. Mill.

2.
That which limits; a restriction; a qualification; a restraining condition, defining circumstance, or qualifying conception; as, limitations of thought.

The cause of error is ignorance what restraints and limitations all principles have in regard of the matter whereunto they are applicable.
Hooker.

3.
A certain precinct within which friars were allowed to beg, or exercise their functions; also, the time during which they were permitted to exercise their functions in such a district.
Chaucer. Latimer.

4.
A limited time within or during which something is to be done.

You have stood your limitation, and the tribunes
Endue you with the people's voice.
Shak.

5.
(Law)
(a)
A certain period limited by statute after which the claimant shall not enforce his claims by suit.
(b)
A settling of an estate or property by specific rules.
(c)
A restriction of power; as, a constitutional limitation.
Wharton. Bouvier.

To know one's own limitations, to know the reach and limits of one's abilities. A. R. Wallace.


word: Limited
definition:
Limited

Lim"it*ed
(lĭm"ĭt*ĕd)
a.
Confined within limits; narrow; circumscribed; restricted; as, our views of nature are very limited.

Limited company, a company in which the liability of each shareholder is limited by the number of shares he has taken, so that he can not be called on to contribute beyond the amount of his shares. [Eng.] Mozley & W.


word: Limiter
definition:
Limiter

Lim"it*er
(lĭm"ĭt*ẽr)
n.
1.
One who, or that which, limits.

2.
A friar licensed to beg within certain bounds, or whose duty was limited to a certain district.
[Formerly written also limitour.]
Chaucer.

A limitour of the Gray Friars, in the time of his limitation, preached many times, and had but one sermon at all times.
Latimer.


word: Limitive
definition:
Limitive

Lim"it*ive
(lĭm"ĭt*ĭv)
a.
Involving a limit; as, a limitive law, one designed to limit existing powers.
[R.]


word: Limmer₂
definition:
Limmer

Lim"mer
n.
[F. limier. See Leamer.]
1.
A limehound; a leamer.

2.
(Zool.)
A mongrel, as a cross between the mastiff and hound.

3.
A low, base fellow; also, a prostitute.
[Scot.]

Thieves, limmers, and broken men of the Highlands.
Sir W. Scott.

4.
(Naut.)
A man rope at the side of a ladder.


word: Limn
definition:
Limn

Limn
(lĭm)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Limned (lĭmd); p. pr. &  vb. n. Limning (lĭm"nĭng or lĭm"ĭng).]
[OE. limnen, fr. luminen, for enluminen, F. enluminer to illuminate, to limn, LL. illuminare to paint. √122.  See Illuminate, Luminous.]
1.
To draw or paint; especially, to represent in an artistic way with pencil or brush.

Let a painter carelessly limn out a million of faces, and you shall find them all different.
Sir T. Browne. 

2.
Hence:
To picture in words; to describe in graphic terms.

3.
To illumine, as books or parchments, with ornamental figures, letters, or borders.


word: Limnaea
definition:
Limnaea

Lim*næ"a
(lĭm*nē"ȧ)
prop. n.
[NL., fr. Gr. limnai^os pertaining to a marsh, fr. li`mh a marsh.]
(Zool.)
A genus of fresh-water air-breathing mollusks, abundant in ponds and streams; -- called also pond snail.
[Written also Lymnæa.]


word: Limner
definition:
Limner

Lim"ner
(lĭm"nẽr)
n.
[F. enlumineur, LL. illuminator. See Limn, and cf. Alluminor.]
A painter; an artist
(a)
One who paints portraits.
(b)
One who illuminates books.
[Archaic]


word: Limning
definition:
Limning

Lim"ning
(lĭm"nĭng or lĭm"ĭng)
n.
The act, process, or art of one who limns; the picture or decoration so produced.

Adorned with illumination which we now call limning.
Wood.


word: Limnodromus
definition:
Limnodromus

Limnodromus
n.
A genus of shore birds including the dowitchers.

Syn. -- genus Limnodromus.


word: limnology
definition:
limnology

limnology
n.
the scientific study of bodies of fresh water for their biological and physical and geological properties.


word: Limoges
definition:
Limoges

Li*moges"
(le̝*m&omacrzh")
prop. n.
1.
A city of Southern France.

2.
A variety of fine porcelain manufactured at Limoges{1}; also called Limoges ware or Limoges China.

Limoges enamel, a kind of enamel ware in which the enamel is applied to the whole surface of a metal plaque, vase, or the like, and painted in enamel colors. The art was brought to a high degree of perfection in Limoges in the 16th century. -- Limoges ware. (a) Articles decorated with Limoges enamel. (b) Articles of porcelain, etc., manufactured at Limoges.


word: limonene
definition:
limonene

limonene
n.
a liquid terpene with a lemon odor; found in lemons and oranges and other essential oils.


word: Limoniad
definition:
Limoniad

Li*mo"ni*ad
(li̝*m&omacr"nĭ*ăd)
n.
[L. limoniades, pl., Gr. leimwnia`des, fr. leimw`n meadow.]
(Class. Myth.)
A nymph of the meadows; -- called also Limniad.


word: Limonin
definition:
Limonin

Li*mo"nin
(li̝*m&omacr"nĭn)
n.
[From NL. Citrus Medica, var. Limonum, the scientific name of the lemon.]
(Chem.)
A bitter, white, crystalline substance found in orange and lemon seeds.


word: Limonite
definition:
Limonite

Li"mon*ite
(lī"m&obreve_;n*īt)
n.
[Gr. leimw`n any moist grassy place, a meadow: cf. F. limonite, G. limonit.]
(Min.)
Hydrous sesquioxide of iron, an important ore of iron, occurring in stalactitic, mammillary, or earthy forms, of a dark brown color, and yellowish brown powder. It includes bog iron. Also called brown hematite.


word: Limosis
definition:
Limosis

Li*mo"sis
(li̝*m&omacr"sĭs)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. limo`s hunger.]
(Med.)
A ravenous appetite caused by disease; excessive and morbid hunger.


word: Limous
definition:
Limous

Li"mous
(lī"mŭs)
a.
[L. limosus, fr. limus slime, mud.]
Muddy; slimy; thick.
Sir T. Browne.


word: Limousine
definition:
Limousine

Li`mou*sine"
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. limousine a kind of cloak, fr. Limousin, an old province in central France.]
an elongated, luxurious automobile, designed to be driven by a chauffeur and often having a glass partition between the driver's seat and the passengers' compartment behind.
When intended for use in transporting businessmen, the limousine may be equipped with a telephone and other conveniences to permit work during travel.  Limousines are often rented for travel to and from airports, and as a luxurious perquisite on special occasions, as weddings or school prm nights.  Originally (1913) the term referred to an automobile body with seats and permanent top like a coupé, and with the top projecting over the driver and a projecting front, or an automobile with such a body.


word: Limousine liberal
definition:
Limousine liberal

Li`mou*sine" lib`er*al
(?)
n.
a wealthy or well-to-do person of liberal political inclination.  It is sometimes used as a term of contempt for those espousing the cause of poor people, without having to endure the discomfort that their policies may inflict on others, such as the lower middle class.


word: Limp
definition:
Limp

Limp
(lĭmp)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Limped (lĭmt; 215); p. pr. & vb. n. Limping.]
[Cf. AS. lemphealt lame, OHG. limphen to limp, be weak; perh. akin to E. lame, or to limp, a √120.]
To halt; to walk lamely. Also used figuratively.
Shak.


word: Limp₂
definition:
Limp

Limp
n.
A manner of walking in which the movement of one or both legs is noticeably abnormal, usually due to injury or disease; a halt; the act of limping.


word: Limp₄
definition:
Limp

Limp
a.
[Cf. Icel. limpa limpness, weakness, and E. lap, n., lop, v. t. Cf. Limber, a.]
1.
Flaccid; flabby, as flesh.
Walton.

2.
Lacking stiffness; flimsy; as, a limp cravat.


word: Limpet
definition:
Limpet

Lim"pet
(lĭm"pĕt)
n.
[Prob. through French fr. L. lepas, -adis, Gr. lepa`s, -a`dos.]
(Zool.)
1.
In a general sense, any hatshaped, or conical, gastropod shell.

2.
Any one of many species of marine shellfish of the order Docoglossa, mostly found adhering to rocks, between tides.

&hand_; The common European limpets of the genus Patella (esp. Patella vulgata) are extensively used as food. The common New England species is Acmæa testudinalis. Numerous species of limpets occur on the Pacific coast of America, some of them of large size.

3.
Somthing or someone that clings tenaciously to another object or person;
specifically
a military explosive device having magnets allowing it to cling to a metallic target object, such as the hull of a ship.

3.
Any species of Siphonaria, a genus of limpet-shaped Pulmonifera, living between tides, on rocks.

4.
A keyhole limpet. See Fissurella.


word: Limpid
definition:
Limpid

Lim"pid
(lĭm"pĭd)
a.
[L. limpidus; akin to Gr. la`mpein to shine: cf. F. limpide.  Cf. Lamp.]
1.
Characterized by clearness or transparency; clear; as, a limpid stream.

Springs which were clear, fresh, and limpid.
Woodward.
2.
Clear and unambiguous; lucid; easy to understand; -- of speech and writing; as, limpid prose.

3.
Calm, untroubled, and without worry; serene.


word: Limpidity
definition:
Limpidity

Lim*pid"i*ty
(lĭm*pĭd"ĭ*t&ybreve_;)
n.
[L. limpiditas: cf. F. limpidité.]
The quality or state of being limpid.


word: Limpkin
definition:
Limpkin

Limp"kin
(lĭmp"kĭn)
n.
(Zool.)
Either one of two species of wading birds of the genus Aramus, intermediate between the cranes and rails. The limpkins are remarkable for the great length of the toes. One species (Aramus giganteus) inhabits Florida and the West Indies; the other (Aramus scolopaceus) is found in South America. Called also courlan, and crying bird.


word: Limsy
definition:
Limsy

Limpsy

{ Limp"sy (lĭmp"s&ybreve_;), Lim"sy (lĭm"s&ybreve_;), }
a.
[See Limp, a., and cf. W. llymsi having a fickle motion, weak.  Cf. Flimsy.]
Limp; flexible; flimsy.
[Local, U. S.]


word: Limu
definition:
Limu

Li"mu
(lē"mō)
n.
(Bot.)
The Hawaiian name for seaweeds. Over sixty kinds are used as food, and have species names, as Limu Lipoa, Limu palawai, etc.


word: Limuloidea
definition:
Limuloidea

Lim`u*loi"de*a
(lĭm`&uuptack_;*loi"de̝*ȧ)
n. pl.
[NL. See Limulus, and -oid.]
(Zool.)
An order of Merostomata, including among living animals the genus Limulus, with various allied fossil genera, mostly of the Carboniferous period. Called also Xiphosura.

&hand_; There are six pairs of leglike organs, surrounding the mouth, most of which terminate in claws; those of the first pair (probably mandibles) are the smallest; the others have the basal joints thickened and spinose, to serve as jaws, while the terminal joints serve as legs. This group is intermediate, in some characteristics, between crustaceans and certain arachnids (scorpions), but the respiration is by means of lamellate gills borne upon the five posterior abdominal appendages, which are flat and united in pairs by their inner edges, and are protected by the lidlike anterior pair, which also bear the genital orifices.


word: Limulus
definition:
Limulus

Lim"u*lus
(lĭm"&uuptack_;*lŭs)
n.
pl. Limuli (-lī).
[L., dim. of limus sidelong, askance.]
(Zool.)
The only existing genus of Merostomata. It includes only a few species from the East Indies, and one (Limulus polyphemus) from the Atlantic coast of North America. Called also Molucca crab, king crab, horseshoe crab, and horsefoot.


word: Limy
definition:
Limy

Lim"y
(līm"&ybreve_;)
a.
[See 4th Lime.]
1.
Smeared with, or consisting of, lime; viscous.
Limy
Spenser.

2.
Containing lime; as, a limy soil.

3.
Resembling lime; having the qualities of lime.


word: Lin
definition:
Lin

Lin
(lĭn)
v. i.
[AS. linnan. See Lithe.]
To yield; to stop; to cease.
[Obs. or Scot.]
Marston.


word: Lin₃
definition:
Lin

Lin
n.
[Ir. linn, or Gael. linne; akin to W. llyn a pool, pond, lake, but in senses 2 and 3 prob. from AS. hlynn torrent.  Cf. Dunlin.]
1.
A pool or collection of water, particularly one above or below a fall of water.

2.
A waterfall, or cataract; as, a roaring lin.

3.
A steep ravine.

&hand_; Written also linn and lyn.


word: Linament
definition:
Linament

Lin"a*ment
(lĭn"ȧ*ment)
n.
[L. linamentum, fr. linum flax.]
(Surg.)
Lint; esp., lint made into a tent for insertion into wounds or ulcers.


word: Linaria
definition:
Linaria

Linaria
n.
A genus of herbs and subshrubs having showy flowers: spurred snapdragon.

Syn. -- genus Linaria.


word: Linarite
definition:
Linarite

Li*nar"ite
(le̝*när"īt)
n.
[So called because formerly supposed to occur at Linares, in Spain.]
(Min.)
A hydrous sulphate of lead and copper occurring in bright blue monoclinic crystals.


word: Linchpin
definition:
Linchpin

Linch"pin`
(lĭnch"pĭn`)
n.
[AS. lynis the axletree; akin to D. luns linchpin, OS. lunisa, LG. lunse, G. lünse, OHG. lun peg, bolt.]
A pin used to prevent the wheel of a vehicle from sliding off the axletree.


word: Lincoln green
definition:
Lincoln green

Lin"coln green"
(lĭ&nsmacr_;"kŭn grēn")
n.
A color of cloth formerly made in Lincoln, England; the cloth itself.


word: lincomycin
definition:
lincomycin

lincomycin
n.
An antibacterial antibiotic obtained from the bacterium Streptomyces lincolnensis and used in the treatment of certain penicillin-resistant infections.


word: Linctus
definition:
Linctus

Lincture

{ Linc"ture (lĭ&nsmacr_;k"t&uuptack_;r; 135), Linc"tus (lĭ&nsmacr_;k"tŭs), }
n.
[L. lingere, linctum, to lick.]
Medicine taken by licking with the tongue.


word: lindane
definition:
lindane

lindane
n.
A chemical substance (C6H6Cl6) used as an agricultural insecticide.

Syn. -- hexachlorocyclohexane, gamma benzene hexachloride.


word: Linden
definition:
Linden

Lin"den
(lĭn"den)
n.
[Orig. an adj. from lind linden tree, AS. lind; akin to D. & G. linde, OHG. linta, Icel., Sw., & Dan. lind.  Cf. Lime linden.]
(Bot.)
(a)
A handsome tree (Tilia Europæa), having cymes of light yellow flowers, and large cordate leaves. The tree is common in Europe.
(b)
In America, the basswood, or Tilia Americana.


word: Lindera
definition:
Lindera

Lindera
n.
A genus of aromatic evergreen or deciduous dioecious shrubs or trees of eastern Asia and North America.

Syn. -- genus Lindera.


word: Lindheimera
definition:
Lindheimera

Lindheimera
n.
A genus having only one species, the Texas star.

Syn. -- genus Lindheimera.


word: Lindia
definition:
Lindia

Lin"di*a
(lĭn"dĭ*ȧ)
n.
[NL.]
(Zool.)
A peculiar genus of rotifers, remarkable for the absence of ciliated disks. By some Zoologists it is thought to be like the ancestral form of the Arthropoda.


word: Lindiform
definition:
Lindiform

Lin"di*form
(lĭn"dĭ*fôrm)
a.
[Lindia + -form.]
(Zool.)
Resembling the genus Lindia; -- said of certain apodous insect larvæ.
[See Illust. under Larva.]


word: lindy
definition:
lindy

lin"dy
n.
an energetic American dance that was popular in the 1930s (probably named for the aviator Charles Lindbergh).

Syn. -- lindy hop.


word: Line
definition:
Line

Line
(līn)
n.
[OE. lin. See Linen.]
1.
Flax; linen.
[Obs.]
line
Spenser.

2.
The longer and finer fiber of flax.


word: Line₂
definition:
Line

Line
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Lined (līnd); p. pr. & vb. n. Lining.]
[See Line flax.]
1.
To cover the inner surface of; as, to line a cloak with silk or fur; to line a box with paper or tin.

The inside lined with rich carnation silk.
W. Browne.

2.
To put something in the inside of; to fill; to supply, as a purse with money.

The charge amounteth very high for any one man's purse, except lined beyond ordinary, to reach unto.
Carew.

Till coffee has her stomach lined.
Swift.

3.
To place persons or things along the side of for security or defense; to strengthen by adding anything; to fortify; as, to line works with soldiers.

Line and new repair our towns of war
With men of courage and with means defendant.
Shak.

4.
To impregnate; -- applied to brute animals.
Creech.

Lined gold, gold foil having a lining of another metal.


word: Line₃
definition:
Line

Line
n.
[OE. line, AS. līne cable, hawser, prob. from L. linea a linen thread, string, line, fr. linum flax, thread, linen, cable; but the English word was influenced by F. ligne line, from the same L. word linea. See Linen.]
1.
A linen thread or string; a slender, strong cord; also, a cord of any thickness; a rope; a hawser; as, a fishing line; a line for snaring birds; a clothesline; a towline.

Who so layeth lines for to latch fowls.
Piers Plowman.

2.
A more or less threadlike mark of pen, pencil, or graver; any long mark; as, a chalk line.

3.
The course followed by anything in motion; hence, a road or route; as, the arrow descended in a curved line; the place is remote from lines of travel.

4.
Direction; as, the line of sight or vision.

5.
A row of letters, words, etc., written or printed; esp., a row of words extending across a page or column.

6.
A short letter; a note; as, a line from a friend.

7.
(Poet.)
A verse, or the words which form a certain number of feet, according to the measure.

In the preceding line Ulysses speaks of Nausicaa.
Broome.

8.
Course of conduct, thought, occupation, or policy; method of argument; department of industry, trade, or intellectual activity.

He is uncommonly powerful in his own line, but it is not the line of a first-rate man.
Coleridge.

9.
(Math.)
That which has length, but not breadth or thickness.

10.
The exterior limit of a figure, plat, or territory; boundary; contour; outline.

Eden stretched her line
From Auran eastward to the royal towers
Of great Seleucia.
Milton.

11.
A threadlike crease marking the face or the hand; hence, characteristic mark.

Though on his brow were graven lines austere.
Byron.

He tipples palmistry, and dines
On all her fortune-telling lines.
Cleveland.

12.
Lineament; feature; figure.
lines
Shak.

13.
A straight row; a continued series or rank; as, a line of houses, or of soldiers; a line of barriers.

Unite thy forces and attack their lines.
Dryden.

14.
A series or succession of ancestors or descendants of a given person; a family or race; as, the ascending or descending line; the line of descent; the male line; a line of kings.

Of his lineage am I, and his offspring
By very line, as of the stock real.
Chaucer.

15.
A connected series of public conveyances, and hence, an established arrangement for forwarding merchandise, etc.; as, a line of stages; an express line.

16.
(Geog.)
(a)
A circle of latitude or of longitude, as represented on a map.
(b)
The equator; -- usually called the line, or equinoctial line; as, to cross the line.

17.
A long tape, or a narrow ribbon of steel, etc., marked with subdivisions, as feet and inches, for measuring; a tapeline.

18.
(Script.)
(a)
A measuring line or cord.

He marketh it out with a line.
Is. xliv. 13.
The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a goodly heritage.
Ps. xvi. 6.
Their line is gone out through all the earth.
Ps. xix. 4.

19.
(Mach.)
The proper relative position or adjustment of parts, not as to design or proportion, but with reference to smooth working; as, the engine is in line or out of line.

20.
The track and roadbed of a railway; railroad.

21.
(Mil.)
(a)
A row of men who are abreast of one another, whether side by side or some distance apart; -- opposed to column.
(b)
The regular infantry of an army, as distinguished from militia, guards, volunteer corps, cavalry, artillery, etc.

22.
(Fort.)
(a)
A trench or rampart.
(b)
pl.
Dispositions made to cover extended positions, and presenting a front in but one direction to an enemy.

23.
pl.
(Shipbuilding)
Form of a vessel as shown by the outlines of vertical, horizontal, and oblique sections.

24.
(Mus.)
One of the straight horizontal and parallel prolonged strokes on and between which the notes are placed.

25.
(Stock Exchange)
A number of shares taken by a jobber.

26.
(Trade)
A series of various qualities and values of the same general class of articles; as, a full line of hosiery; a line of merinos, etc.
McElrath.

27.
The wire connecting one telegraphic station with another, or the whole of a system of telegraph wires under one management and name.

28.
pl.
The reins with which a horse is guided by his driver.
[U. S.]

29.
A measure of length; one twelfth of an inch.

Hard lines, hard lot. C. Kingsley. [See Def. 18.] -- Line breeding (Stockbreeding), breeding by a certain family line of descent, especially in the selection of the dam or mother. -- Line conch (Zool.), a spiral marine shell (Fasciolaria distans), of Florida and the West Indies. It is marked by narrow, dark, revolving lines. -- Line engraving. (a) Engraving in which the effects are produced by lines of different width and closeness, cut with the burin upon copper or similar material; also, a plate so engraved. (b) A picture produced by printing from such an engraving. -- Line of battle. (a) (Mil. Tactics) The position of troops drawn up in their usual order without any determined maneuver. (b) (Naval) The line or arrangement formed by vessels of war in an engagement. -- Line of battle ship. See Ship of the line, below. -- Line of beauty (Fine Arts),an abstract line supposed to be beautiful in itself and absolutely; -- differently represented by different authors, often as a kind of elongated S (like the one drawn by Hogarth). -- Line of centers. (Mach.) (a) A line joining two centers, or fulcra, as of wheels or levers. (b) A line which determines a dead center. See Dead center, under Dead. -- Line of dip (Geol.), a line in the plane of a stratum, or part of a stratum, perpendicular to its intersection with a horizontal plane; the line of greatest inclination of a stratum to the horizon. -- Line of fire (Mil.), the direction of fire. -- Line of force (Physics), any line in a space in which forces are acting, so drawn that at every point of the line its tangent is the direction of the resultant of all the forces. It cuts at right angles every equipotential surface which it meets. Specifically (Magnetism), a line in proximity to a magnet so drawn that any point in it is tangential with the direction of a short compass needle held at that point. Faraday. -- Line of life (Palmistry), a line on the inside of the hand, curving about the base of the thumb, supposed to indicate, by its form or position, the length of a person's life. -- Line of lines. See Gunter's line. -- Line of march. (Mil.) (a) Arrangement of troops for marching. (b) Course or direction taken by an army or body of troops in marching. -- Line of operations, that portion of a theater of war which an army passes over in attaining its object. H. W. Halleck. -- Line of sight (Firearms), the line which passes through the front and rear sight, at any elevation, when they are sighted at an object. -- Line tub (Naut.), a tub in which the line carried by a whaleboat is coiled. -- Mason and Dixon's line, Mason-Dixon line, the boundary line between Pennsylvania and Maryland, as run before the Revolution (1764-1767) by two English astronomers named Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon. In an extended sense, the line between the free and the slave States; as, below the Mason-Dixon line, i.e. in the South. -- On the line, (a) on a level with the eye of the spectator; -- said of a picture, as hung in an exhibition of pictures. (b) at risk (dependent upon success) in a contest or enterprise; as, the survival of the company is on the line in this project. -- Right line, a straight line; the shortest line that can be drawn between two points. -- Ship of the line, formerly, a ship of war large enough to have a place in the line of battle; a vessel superior to a frigate; usually, a seventy-four, or three-decker; -- called also line of battle ship or battleship. Totten. -- To cross the line, to cross the equator, as a vessel at sea. -- To give a person line, to allow him more or less liberty until it is convenient to stop or check him, like a hooked fish that swims away with the line. -- Water line (Shipbuilding), the outline of a horizontal section of a vessel, as when floating in the water.


word: Line₄
definition:
Line

Line
(līn)
v. t.
1.
To mark with a line or lines; to cover with lines; as, to line a copy book.

He had a healthy color in his cheeks, and his face, though lined, bore few traces of anxiety.
Dickens.

2.
To represent by lines; to delineate; to portray.
[R.]
lined
Shak.

3.
To read or repeat line by line; as, to line out a hymn.

This custom of reading or lining, or, as it was frequently called “deaconing” the hymn or psalm in the churches, was brought about partly from necessity.
N. D. Gould.

4.
To form into a line; to align; as, to line troops.

To line bees, to track wild bees to their nest by following their line of flight. -- To line up (Mach.), to put in alignment; to put in correct adjustment for smooth running. See 3d Line, 19.


word: Lineage
definition:
Lineage

Lin"e*age
(lĭn"e̝*a̝j; 48)
n.
[OE. linage, F. lignage, fr. L. linea line. See 3d Line.]
Descent in a line from a common progenitor; progeny; race; descending line of offspring or ascending line of parentage.

Both the lineage and the certain sire
From which I sprung, from me are hidden yet.
Spenser.


word: Lineal
definition:
Lineal

Lin"e*al
(lĭn"e̝*al)
a.
[L. linealis belonging to a line, fr. linea line: cf. F. linéal. See 3d Line.]
1.
Descending in a direct line from an ancestor; hereditary; derived from ancestors; -- opposed to collateral; as, a lineal descent or a lineal descendant.

The prime and ancient right of lineal succession.
Locke.

2.
Inheriting by direct descent; having the right by direct descent to succeed (to).

For only you are lineal to the throne.
Dryden.

3.
Composed of lines; delineated; as, lineal designs.

4.
In the direction of a line; of or pertaining to a line; measured on, or ascertained by, a line; linear; as, lineal magnitude.

Lineal measure, the measure of length; -- usually written linear measure.


word: Lineally
definition:
Lineally

Lin"e*al*ly
(lĭn"e̝*al*l&ybreve_;)
adv.
In a lineal manner; as, the prince is lineally descended from the Conqueror.


word: Lineament
definition:
Lineament

Lin"e*a*ment
(lĭn"e̝*ȧ*ment)
n.
[L. lineamentum, fr. linea line: cf. F. linéament. See 3d Line.]
One of the outlines, exterior features, or distinctive marks, of a body or figure, particularly of the face; feature; form; mark; -- usually in the plural.
lineaments
Locke.
Lineaments
Swift.

Man he seems
In all his lineaments.
Milton.


word: Linear
definition:
Linear

Lin"e*ar
(lĭn"e̝*ẽr)
a.
[L. linearis, linearius, fr. linea line: cf. F. linéaire. See 3d Line.]
1.
Of or pertaining to a line; consisting of lines; in a straight direction; lineal.

2.
(Bot.)
Like a line; narrow; of the same breadth throughout, except at the extremities; as, a linear leaf.

3.
Thinking in a step-by-step analytical and logical fashion; contrasted with holistic, i.e. thinking in terms of complex interrelated patterns; as, linear thinkers.

Linear thinkers concluded that by taking the world apart, the actions of people were more predictable and controllable.
David Morris (Conference presentation, Fairfield University, October 31, 1997)
Linear differential equation (Math.), an equation which is of the first degree, when the expression which is equated to zero is regarded as a function of the dependent variable and its differential coefficients. -- Linear equation (Math.), an equation of the first degree between two variables; -- so called because every such equation may be considered as representing a right line. -- Linear measure, the measurement of length. -- Linear numbers (Math.), such numbers as have relation to length only: such is a number which represents one side of a plane figure. If the plane figure is square, the linear figure is called a root. -- Linear problem (Geom.), a problem which may be solved geometrically by the use of right lines alone. -- Linear transformation (Alg.), a change of variables where each variable is replaced by a function of the first degree in the new variable.


word: Linearensate
definition:
Linearensate

Lin`e*ar*en"sate
(lĭn`e̝*ẽr*ĕn"sa̝t)
a.
(Bot.)
Having the form of a sword, but very long and narrow.


word: Lineated
definition:
Lineated

Lineate

{ Lin"e*ate (lĭn"e̝*a̝t), Lin"e*a`ted (lĭn"e̝*ā`tĕd), }
a.
[L. lineatus, p. p. of lineare to reduce to a straight line, fr. linea line.]
1.
(Zool.)
Marked with lines.

2.
(Bot.)
Marked longitudinally with depressed parallel lines; as, a lineate leaf.


word: Lineation
definition:
Lineation

Lin`e*a"tion
(lĭn`e̝*ā"shŭn)
n.
[L. lineatio the drawing of a line, fr. lineare.]
Delineation; a line or lines.


word: linecut
definition:
linecut

linecut
n.
a print obtained from a line drawing.

Syn. -- line engraving.

2.
a block that has been etched or engraved.

Syn. -- line block, line engraving.


word: lined
definition:
lined

lined
adj.
1.
furnished with items in a line or as if in a line.
Often used in hyphenated form, prefixed by the item arranged in a line; as, tree-lined streets.

2.
having visible lines; -- used especially of skin; as, their lined faces were immeasurably sad.  Contrasted to smooth.

Syn. -- furrowed, seamed.

3.
having a lining or a liner; often used in combination; as, a lined skirt; a silk-lined jacket.  Opposite of unlined.


word: Lineman
definition:
Lineman

Line"man
(līn"măn)
n.
pl. Linemen (līn"mĕn).
1.
One who carries the line in surveying, etc.; the surveyor who marks positions with a range pole.

2.
A man employed to examine the rails of a railroad to see if they are in good condition; also, a man employed to install or repair telegraph, telephone, television cable, or power lines.  Also called linesman.

3.
(Football)
A player whose position is in the first (forward) line, as opposed to a back; one who plays on the line of scrimmage.
specifically:
a center, guard, or tackle.

4.
A ladies' man who is especially adept at inventing effective introductory phrases (pick-up lines) to gain a woman's attention.
[Colloq.]

5.
the position of a player on a football team who is stationed on the line of scrimmage.
[wns=4]


word: linemen
definition:
linemen

linemen
n. pl.
lineman
the football players who line up on the line of scrimmage.
WN hypen is odd for this def.


word: Linen
definition:
Linen

Lin"en
(lĭn"ĕn)
a.
[OE., fr. lin linen. See Linen, n.]
1.
Made of linen; as, linen cloth; a linen stocking.

2.
Resembling linen cloth; white; pale.


word: Linen₂
definition:
Linen

Lin"en
n.
[Prop. an adj. from OE. lin flax, AS. līn flax, whence līnen made of flax; akin to OS., Icel., & MHG. līn flax and linen, G. lein, leinen, linen, Sw. lin flax, Goth. lein linen, L. linum flax, linen, Gr. li`non.  Cf. Line, Linseed.]
1.
Thread or cloth made of flax or (rarely) of hemp; -- used in a general sense to include cambric, shirting, sheeting, towels, tablecloths, etc.; as, bed linens
linen
Robert of Brunne.

2.
Underclothing, esp. the shirt, as being, in former times, chiefly made of linen.

Linen draper, a dealer in linen. -- Linen prover, a small microscope for counting the threads in a given space in linen fabrics. -- Linen scroll, Linen pattern (Arch.), an ornament for filling panels, copied from the folds of a piece of stuff symmetrically disposed.


word: Lineolate
definition:
Lineolate

Lin"e*o*late
(lĭn"e̝*o̝*la̝t)
a.
[L. lineola, dim. of linea line.]
1.
(Zool.)
Marked with little lines.

2.
(Bot.)
Marked longitudinally with fine lines.
Gray.


word: Liner
definition:
Liner

Lin"er
(līn"ẽr)
n.
1.
One who lines, as, a liner of shoes or clothing.

2.
An airplane or ship belonging to a transportation company;
also,
a line-of-battle ship; a ship of the line.

3.
(Mach.)
A thin piece placed between two parts to hold or adjust them, fill a space, etc.; a shim.

4.
A lining{2}.
Specifically:
(Steam Engine)
A lining within the cylinder, in which the piston works and between which and the outer shell of the cylinder a space is left to form a steam jacket.

5.
A slab on which small pieces of marble, tile, etc., are fastened for grinding.

6.
(Baseball)
A ball which, when struck, flies through the air in a nearly straight line not far from the ground; also called line drive; as, he hit a sharp liner to right.

7.
A protective envelope for a phonograph record or other object.

8.
A lining; as, a removable coat liner.

9.
Same as eyeliner.


word: line-shooter
definition:
line-shooter

line-shooter
n.
a very boastful and talkative person.

Syn. -- braggart, boaster, blowhard, vaunter.


word: linesman
definition:
linesman

linesman
n.
1.
the official (in tennis or soccer) who watches the lines.

2.
a person who installs or repairs electrical or telephone lines.

Syn. -- electrician, lineman.


word: Lineup
definition:
Lineup

Line-up

{ Line"-up`, Line"up`  }
(līn"ŭp)
n.
1.
The members of a team who are scheduled to play a game.

2.
Specifically:
The formation of football players before the start or a restart of play.

3.
Specifically:
(baseball)
a list of batters in the order in which they will bat.
[wns=1]

Syn. -- batting order, card, lineup.

4.
Hence:
any arrangement of persons (rarely, of things), esp. when having a common purpose or sentiment; as, the line-up at a ticket-office window; the line-up of political factions.
[Colloq.]

5.
A group of persons including a suspect in a police investigation, arranged so as to be observed by a witness, who is requested to identify the perpetrator, if he/she is present in the group.  Such an identification may be used as evidence of guilt of the suspect. Also called a police lineup.
[wns=2]


word: -ling
definition:
-ling

-ling
(-lĭng)
suff.
[AS. -ling.]
A noun suffix, commonly having a diminutive or a depreciatory force; as in duckling, gosling, hireling, fosterling, firstling, underling.


word: Ling
definition:
Ling

Ling
(lĭng)
n.
[OE. lenge; akin to D. leng, G. länge, Dan. lange, Sw. långa, Icel. langa. So named from its being long. See Long, a.]
(Zool.)
(a)
A large, marine, gadoid fish (Molva vulgaris) of Northern Europe and Greenland. It is valued as a food fish and is largely salted and dried. Called also drizzle.
(b)
The burbot of Lake Ontario.
(c)
An American hake of the genus Phycis.
[Canada]
(d)
A New Zealand food fish of the genus Genypterus. The name is also locally applied to other fishes, as the cultus cod, the mutton fish, and the cobia.


word: Ling₂
definition:
Ling

Ling
n.
[Icel. lyng; akin to Dan. lyng, Sw. ljung.]
(Bot.)
Heather (Calluna vulgaris).

Ling honey, a sort of wild honey, made from the flowers of the heather. Holland.


word: Lingam
definition:
Lingam

Linga

{ &VerbarLin"ga (lĭ&nsmacr_;"gȧ), Lin"gam (lĭ&nsmacr_;"găm), }
n.
[Skr. li&ndot_;ga.]
The phallic symbol under which Siva is principally worshiped in his character of the creative and reproductive power.
Whitworth. E. Arnold.


word: lingcod
definition:
lingcod

lingcod
n.
1.
The flesh of a lean-fleshed fish  caught off the U.S. Pacific coast.
[wns=1]

2.
A food fish (Ophiodon elongatus) of Northern Pacific waters related to greenlings.
[wns=2]

Syn. -- Ophiodon elongatus.


word: Lingel
definition:
Lingel

Lin"gel
(lĭ&nsmacr_;"gĕl)
n.
[F. ligneul, dim. of L. linea a linen thread.]
1.
A shoemaker's thread.
[Obs.]

2.
A little tongue or thong of leather; a lacing for belts.
Crabb.


word: lingenberry
definition:
lingenberry

lingenberry
n.
low evergreen shrub (Vaccinium vitis-idaea) of high north temperate regions of Europe and Asia and America bearing red edible berries.

Syn. -- cowberry, mountain cranberry, lingonberry, lingberry, foxberry, Vaccinium vitis-idaea.


word: Linger
definition:
Linger

Lin"ger
(lĭ&nsmacr_;"gẽr)
v. i.
[imp. &  p. p. Lingered (lĭ&nsmacr_;"gẽrd); p. pr. & vb. n. Lingering.]
[OE. lengen to tarry, AS. lengan to prolong, put off, fr. lang long. √125.  See Long, a.]
To delay; to loiter; to remain or wait long; to be slow or reluctant in parting or moving; to be slow in deciding; to be in suspense; to hesitate.

Nor cast one longing, lingering look behind.
Gray.

Perhaps thou linger'st, in deep thoughts detained.
Milton.


word: Linger₂
definition:
Linger

Lin"ger
v. t.
1.
To protract; to draw out.
[Obs.]

She lingers my desires.
Shak.

2.
To spend or pass in a lingering manner; -- with out; as, to linger out one's days on a sick bed.
Dryden.


word: Lingerie
definition:
Lingerie

Lin`ge*rie"
(lăN`zhe`re̝")
n.
[F.]
Linen goods collectively; linen underwear or nightclothes, esp. of women; the clothing of linen and cotton with its lace, etc., worn by a women.


word: Lingering
definition:
Lingering

Lin"ger*ing
a.
1.
Delaying.

2.
Drawn out in time; remaining long; protracted; as, a lingering disease.

To die is the fate of man; but to die with lingering anguish is generally his folly.
Rambler.


word: Linget
definition:
Linget

Lin"get
(lĭ&nsmacr_;"gĕt)
n.
[F. lingot, perh. fr. L. lingua tongue (see Tongue).  Cf. Ingot.]
An ingot.
[Written also lingot.]


word: Lingism
definition:
Lingism

Ling"ism
(lĭng"ĭz'm)
n.
A mode of treating certain diseases, as obesity, by gymnastics; -- proposed by Pehr Henrik Ling, a Swede. See Kinesiatrics.


word: Lingo
definition:
Lingo

Lin"go
(lĭ&nsmacr_;"go̝)
n.
[L. lingua tongue, language. See Lingual.]
Language; speech; dialect.
[Slang]


word: Lingot
definition:
Lingot

Lin"got
(lĭ&nsmacr_;"g&obreve_;t)
n.
A linget or ingot; also, a mold for casting metals. See Linget.


word: Lingua
definition:
Lingua

Linguae

Lin"gua
(lĭ&nsmacr_;"gwȧ)
n.
pl. Linguæ (lĭ&nsmacr_;"gwē).
[L., the tongue.]
(Zool.)
(a)
A tongue.
(b)
A median process of the labium, at the under side of the mouth in insects, and serving as a tongue.


word: Linguacious
definition:
Linguacious

Lin*gua"cious
(lĭ&nsmacr_;*gwā"shŭs)
a.
[L. linguax, -acis, loquacious, fr. lingua tongue.]
Given to the use of the tongue; loquacious.
[Obs.]


word: Linguadental
definition:
Linguadental

Lin`gua*den"tal
(lĭ&nsmacr_;`gwȧ*dĕn"tal)
a.
[L. lingua tongue + E. dental.]
(Phonetics)
Formed or uttered by the joint use of the tongue and teeth, or rather that part of the gum just above the front teeth; dentolingual, as the letters d and t.


word: Linguadental₂
definition:
Linguadental

Lin`gua*den"tal
n.
(Phonetics)
An articulation pronounced by the aid or use of the tongue and teeth.


word: Lingua Franca
definition:
Lingua Franca

Lin"gua Fran"ca
(lĭ&nsmacr_;"gwȧ fră&nsmacr_;"kȧ)
n.
[It., prop., language of the Franks.]
1.
The commercial language of the Levant, -- a mixture of the languages of the people of the region and of foreign traders.

2.
Any hybrid or other language used over a wide area as a common or commercial tongue among peoples of different speech.


word: Lingual
definition:
Lingual

Lin"gual
(lĭ&nsmacr_;"gwal)
a.
[L. lingua tongue: cf. F. lingual. See Tongue, and cf. Language.]
1.
Of or pertaining to the tongue; uttered by the aid of the tongue; glossal; as, the lingual nerves; a lingual letter.

2.
lying near the tongue; especially, in dentistry, on the surface of the tooth next to the tongue.  Contrasted with buccal, the side of a tooth touching the cheek, i. e. the side opposite to the lingual side.

Lingual ribbon. (Zool.) See Odontophore.


word: Lingual₂
definition:
Lingual

Lin"gual
n.
A consonant sound formed by the aid of the tongue; -- a term especially applied to certain articulations (as those of t, d, th, and n) and to the letters denoting them.

&hand_; In Sanskrit grammar certain letters, as &tsdot_;, &tsdot_;h, &dsdot_;, &dsdot_;h, &nsdot_;, are called linguals, cerebrals, or cacuminals. They are uttered with the tip of the tongue turned up and drawn back into the dome of the palate.


word: Linguatulida
definition:
Linguatulida

Lin`gua*tu"li*da
(lĭ&nsmacr_;`gwȧ*tū"lĭ*dȧ)
n. pl.
[NL., fr. L. lingua tongue.]
(Zool.)
Same as Linguatulina.


word: Linguatulina
definition:
Linguatulina

Lin*guat`u*li"na
(lĭ&nsmacr_;*gwăt`&uuptack_;*lī"nȧ)
n. pl.
[NL., fr. L. lingua tongue.]
(Zool.)
An order of wormlike, degraded, parasitic arachnids. They have two pairs of retractile hooks, near the mouth. Called also Pentastomida.

&hand_; The adults of some species inhabit the nostrils and nasal sinuses of dogs and other carnivores. The young, after being swallowed by sheep, rabbits, etc., find their way to the lungs and liver and become encysted. These, when eaten by carnivores, develop into the adult forms.


word: Linguiform
definition:
Linguiform

Lin"gui*form
(lĭ&nsmacr_;"gwĭ*fôrm)
a.
[L. lingua tongue + -form:  cf. F.  linguiforme.]
Having the form of the tongue; tongue-shaped.


word: Linguist
definition:
Linguist

Lin"guist
(lĭ&nsmacr_;"gwĭst)
n.
[L. lingua tongue, speech, language: cf. F.  linguiste.]
1.
A master of the use of language; a talker.
[Obs.]

I'll dispute with him;
He's a rare linguist.
J. Webster.

2.
A person skilled in languages.

There too were Gibbon, the greatest historian, and Jones, the greatest linguist, of the age.
Macaulay.


word: Linguistical
definition:
Linguistical

Linguistic

{ Lin*guis"tic (lĭ&nsmacr_;*gwĭs"tĭk), Lin*guis"tic*al (lĭ&nsmacr_;*gwĭs"tĭ*kal), }
a.
[Cf. F. linguistique.]
Of or pertaining to language; relating to linguistics, or to the affinities of languages.


word: Linguistically
definition:
Linguistically

Lin*guis"tic*al*ly
adv.
In a linguistic manner; from the point of view of a linguist.
Tylor.


word: Linguistics
definition:
Linguistics

Lin*guis"tics
(lĭ&nsmacr_;*gwĭs"tĭks)
n.
[Cf. F. linguistique.]
The science of languages, or of the origin, signification, and application of words; glossology.


word: lingula
definition:
lingula

lingulae

lin"gu*la
(lĭ&nsmacr_;"g&uuptack_;*lȧ)
n.
pl. lin"gu*læ (lĭ&nsmacr_;"g&uuptack_;*lē).
[L., a little tongue.]
1.
(Anat.)
A tonguelike process or part.

2.
(Zool.)
Any one of numerous species of brachiopod shells belonging to the genus Lingula, and related genera. See Brachiopoda, and Illustration in Appendix.

Lingula flags (Geol.), a group of strata in the lower Silurian or Cambrian system of Wales, in which some of the layers contain vast numbers of a species of Lingula.


word: Lingulate
definition:
Lingulate

Lin"gu*late
(lĭ&nsmacr_;"g&uuptack_;*la̝t)
a.
[L. lingulatus, fr. lingula a little tongue.  Cf. Ligulate.]
Shaped like the tongue or a strap; ligulate.


word: Linigerous
definition:
Linigerous

Li*nig"er*ous
(lĭ*nĭj"ẽr*ŭs)
a.
[L. linum flax + -gerous.]
Bearing flax; producing linen.


word: Liniment
definition:
Liniment

Lin"i*ment
(lĭn"ĭ*ment)
n.
[L. linimentum, fr. linire, linere, to besmear, anoint : cf. F. liniment.  Cf. Letter, Lime a viscous substance.]
A liquid or semiliquid preparation of a consistence thinner than an ointment, applied to the skin by friction, esp. one used as a sedative or a stimulant.


word: Lining
definition:
Lining

Lin"ing
(līn"ĭng)
n.
[See Line to cover the in side.]
1.
The act of one who lines; the act or process of making lines, or of inserting a lining.

2.
That which covers the inner surface of anything, as of a garment or a box; also, the contents of anything.

The lining of his coffers shall make coats
To deck our soldiers.
Shak.


word: Link
definition:
Link

Link
(lĭ&nsmacr_;k)
n.
[Prob. corrupted from lint and this for lunt a torch, match, D. lont match; akin to G. lunte, cf. MHG. lünden to burn.  Cf. Lunt, Linstock.]
A torch made of tow and pitch, or the like.
Shak.


word: Link₂
definition:
Link

Link
n.
[OE. linke, AS. hlence; akin to Sw. länk ring of a chain, Dan. lænke chain, Icel. hlekkr; cf. G. gelenk joint, link, ring of a chain, lenken to bend.]
1.
A single ring or division of a chain.

2.
Hence: Anything, whether material or not, which binds together, or connects, separate things; a part of a connected series; a tie; a bond.
Links
Shak.

The link of brotherhood, by which
One common Maker bound me to the kind.
Cowper.

And so by double links enchained themselves in lover's life.
Gascoigne.

3.
Anything doubled and closed like a link; as, a link of horsehair.
Mortimer.

4.
(Kinematics)
Any one of the several elementary pieces of a mechanism, as the fixed frame, or a rod, wheel, mass of confined liquid, etc., by which relative motion of other parts is produced and constrained.

5.
(Mach.)
Any intermediate rod or piece for transmitting force or motion, especially a short connecting rod with a bearing at each end; specifically (Steam Engine), the slotted bar, or connecting piece, to the opposite ends of which the eccentric rods are jointed, and by means of which the movement of the valve is varied, in a link motion.

6.
(Surveying)
The length of one joint of Gunter's chain, being the hundredth part of it, or 7.92 inches, the chain being 66 feet in length.  Cf. Chain, n., 4.

7.
(Chem.)
A bond of affinity, or a unit of valence between atoms; -- applied to a unit of chemical force or attraction.

8.
pl.
Sausages; -- because linked together.
[Colloq.]


word: Link₃
definition:
Link

Link
(lĭ&nsmacr_;k)
n.
[See Linch.]
1.
A hill or ridge, as a sand hill, or a wooded or turfy bank between cultivated fields, etc.
[Scot. & Prov. Eng.]

2.
A winding of a river; also, the ground along such a winding; a meander; -- usually in pl.
[Scot.]
The windings or “links” of the Forth above and below Stirling are extremely tortuous.
Encyc. Brit.

3.
pl.
Sand hills with the surrounding level or undulating land, such as occur along the seashore, a river bank, etc.
[Scot.]
Golf may be played on any park or common, but its original home is the “links” or common land which is found by  the seashore, where the short close tuft, the sandy subsoil, and the many natural obstacles in the shape of bents, whins, sand holes, and banks, supply the conditions which are essential to the proper pursuit of the game.
Encyc. of Sport.

4.
pl.
Hence, any such piece of ground where golf is played; a golf course.


word: Link₄
definition:
Link

Link
(lĭ&nsmacr_;k)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Linked (lĭ&nsmacr_;kt); p. pr. & vb. n. Linking.]
To connect or unite with a link or as with a link; to join; to attach; to unite; to couple.

All the tribes and nations that composed it [the Roman Empire] were linked together, not only by the same laws and the same government, but by all the facilities of commodious intercourse, and of frequent communication.
Eustace.


word: Linkage
definition:
Linkage

Link"age
(lĭ&nsmacr_;k"a̝j; 48)
n.
1.
The act of linking; the state of being linked; also, a system of links.

2.
(Chem.)
Manner of linking or of being linked; -- said of the union of atoms or radicals in the molecule.

3.
(Geom.)
A system of straight lines or bars, fastened together by joints, and having certain of their points fixed in a plane. It is used to describe straight lines and curves in the plane.

4.
Any object, factor, or relationship that creates a bond or association between two other objects.

5.
Specifically:
(Genetics)
The proximity of two or more genes on the genome of an organism that causes those genes to be inherited, transferred, or moved together with a frequency greater than for genes not associated.  The linkage is a continuous variable, and is inversely related to the distance between genes on the genome.


word: linked
definition:
linked

linked
(lĭ&nsmacr_;kt)
a.
1.
1.
Associated.

2.
(Genetics)
Exhibiting linkage{5}.

3.
Having a connection.


word: Linkman
definition:
Linkman

Linkboy

{ Link"boy` (lĭ&nsmacr_;k"boi`), Link"man (lĭ&nsmacr_;k"măn), }
n.
[See 1st Link.]
A boy or man that carried a link or torch to light passengers.


word: Link motion
definition:
Link motion

Link" mo"tion
(lĭ&nsmacr_;k" m&omacr"shŭn)
n.
(Steam Engine)
A valve gear, consisting of two eccentrics with their rods, giving motion to a slide valve by an adjustable connecting bar, called the link, in such a way that the motion of the engine can be reversed, or the cut-off varied, at will; -- used very generally in locomotives and marine engines.

&hand_; The illustration shows a link motion for a vertical engine, c representing the shaft carrying two eccentrics, a and b, for making the engine run forward and backward, respectively, their rods e and d being jointed to opposite ends of the slotted link f, in the opening of which is a pin g which is attached to the valve rod h. The valve will receive the motion of the forward eccentric when the link is in the position shown, and the motion of the backward eccentric when the link is shifted so far to the right as to bring e in line with h, or a compound motion derived from both eccentrics when the link is shifted to intermediate positions, the compound motion causing the valve to cut off the steam at a point determined by the position to which the link may have been shifted.


word: Links
definition:
Links

Links
(lĭ&nsmacr_;ks)
n.
[The pl. form of Link, but often construed as a singular.]
A tract of ground laid out for the game of golf; a golfing green.

A second links has recently been opened at Prestwick, and another at Troon, on the same coast.
P. P. Alexander.


word: Linkwork
definition:
Linkwork

Link"work`
(lĭ&nsmacr_;k"wûrk`)
n.
1.
A fabric consisting of links made of metal or other material fastened together; also, a chain.

And thou shalt make hooks of gold, and two chains of fine gold; linkwork and wreathed.
Udall.

2.
Mechanism in which links, or intermediate connecting pieces, are employed to transmit motion from one part to another.


word: Linnaeus
definition:
Linnaeus

Linnaeus
(lĭ*nē"ŭs)
n.
Carolus Linnaeus, also called Karl von Linné.  Born at Råshult, Småland, Sweden, May 13, 1707: died at Upsala, Sweden, Jan. 10, 1778.  A celebrated Swedish botanist and naturalist, founder of the Linnean system in botany.  He made a journey to Lapland in 1732; resided in the Netherlands 1735-38; and became professor of medicine (later of botany) at Upsala in 1741.  Among his works are “Systema naturæ” (1735), “Fundamenta botanica” (1736), “Genera plantarum” (1737), “Flora lapponica” (1737),
“Philosophia botanica” (1751), and “Species plantarum” (1753).


word: Linnaea borealis
definition:
Linnaea borealis

Lin*næ"a bo`re*a"lis
(lĭn*nē"ȧ b&omacr`re̝*ā"lĭs)
n.
[NL. Linnaeus Linnæan + L. borealis northern.]
(Bot.)
The twin flower which grows in cold northern climates.


word: Linnaean
definition:
Linnaean

Linnean

{ Lin*næ"an, Lin*ne"an  }
(lĭn*nē"an)
prop. a.
Of or pertaining to Linnæus, the celebrated Swedish botanist.

Linnaean system, Linnean system (Bot.), the system in which the classes of plants are founded mainly upon the number of stamens, and the orders upon the pistils; the artificial or sexual system.


word: Linnaeite
definition:
Linnaeite

Lin*næ"ite
(lĭn*nē"īt)
n.
[See Linnæan.]
(Min.)
A mineral of pale steel-gray color and metallic luster, occurring in isometric crystals, and also massive. It is a sulphide of cobalt containing some nickel or copper.


word: Linnet
definition:
Linnet

Lin"net
(lĭn"nĕt)
n.
[F. linot, linotte, from L. linum flax; or perh. shortened from AS. līnetwige, fr. AS. līn flax; -- so called because it feeds on the seeds of flax and hemp. See Linen.]
(Zool.)
Any one of several species of fringilline birds of the genera Linota, Acanthis, and allied genera, esp. the common European species (Linota cannabina), which, in full summer plumage, is chestnut brown above, with the breast more or less crimson. The feathers of its head are grayish brown, tipped with crimson. Called also gray linnet, red linnet, rose linnet, brown linnet, lintie, lintwhite, gorse thatcher, linnet finch, and greater redpoll. The American redpoll linnet (Acanthis linaria) often has the crown and throat rosy. See Redpoll, and Twite.

Green linnet (Zool.), the European green finch.


word: Linoleic
definition:
Linoleic

Li*no"le*ic
(lĭ*n&omacr"le̝*ĭk)
a.
Pertaining to, or derived from, linoleum, or linseed oil; specifically (Chem.), designating an organic acid, a thin yellow oil, found combined as a salt of glycerin in oils of linseed, poppy, hemp, and certain nuts.


word: Linoleum
definition:
Linoleum

Li*no"le*um
(lĭ*n&omacr"le̝*ŭm)
n.
[L. linum flax + oleum oil.]
1.
Linseed oil brought to various degrees of hardness by some oxidizing process, as by exposure to heated air, or by treatment with chloride of sulphur. In this condition it is used for many of the purposes to which India rubber has been applied.

2.
A kind of floor cloth made by laying hardened linseed oil mixed with ground cork on a canvas backing.


word: Linotype
definition:
Linotype

Lin"o*type
(?)
n.
[See Line; Type.]
(Print.)
(a)
A kind of typesetting machine which produces castings, each of which corresponds to a line of separate types. By pressing the keys of a keyboard like one on a typewriter, the matrices for one line are properly arranged; the entire line, or stereotype, or slug, is then cast and planed, and the matrices are returned to their proper places, the whole process being automatic.
(b)
The slug produced by the machine, or matter composed in such lines.
Lin"o*typ`ist (#), n.


word: Linoxin
definition:
Linoxin

Li*nox"in
(lĭ*n&obreve_;ks"ĭn)
n.
[Linoleic + oxygen.]
(Chem.)
A resinous substance obtained as an oxidation product of linoleic acid.
[Written also linoxyn.]


word: Linsang
definition:
Linsang

Lin*sang"
(lĭn*säng")
n.
(Zool.)
Any viverrine mammal of the genus Prionodon, inhabiting the East Indies and Southern Asia. The common East Indian linsang (Prionodon gracilis) is white, crossed by broad, black bands. The Guinea linsang (Porana Richardsonii) is brown with black spots.


word: Linseed
definition:
Linseed

Lin"seed`
(lĭn"sēd`)
n.
[OE. lin flax + seed. See Linen.]
(Bot.)
The seeds of flax, from which linseed oil is obtained.
[Written also lintseed.]

Linseed cake, the solid mass or cake which remains when oil is expressed from flaxseed. -- Linseed meal, linseed cake reduced to powder. -- Linseed oil, oil obtained by pressure from flaxseed.


word: Linsey-woolsey
definition:
Linsey-woolsey

Lin"sey-wool"sey
(lĭn"s&ybreve_;*wŏl"s&ybreve_;; 277)
n.
1.
Cloth made of linen and wool, mixed.

2.
Jargon.
[Obs.]
Shak.


word: Linsey-woolsey₂
definition:
Linsey-woolsey

Lin"sey-wool"sey
a.
Made of linen and wool; hence, of different and unsuitable parts; mean.
Johnson.


word: Linstock
definition:
Linstock

Lin"stock
(lĭn"st&obreve_;k)
n.
[Corrupt. fr. luntstock, D. lontstok; lont lunt + stok stock, stick. See Link a torch, Lunt, and Stock.]
A pointed forked staff, shod with iron at the foot, to hold a lighted match for firing cannon.
[Written also lintstock.]


word: Lint
definition:
Lint

Lint
(lĭnt)
n.
[AS. līnet flax, hemp, fr. līn flax; or, perh. borrowed fr. L. linteum a linen cloth, linen, from linteus linen, a., fr. linum flax, lint. See Linen.]
1.
Flax.

2.
Linen scraped or otherwise made into a soft, downy or fleecy substance for dressing wounds and sores; also, fine ravelings, down, fluff, or loose short fibers from yarn or fabrics.

Lint doctor (Calico-printing Mach.), a scraper to remove lint from a printing cylinder.


word: Lintel
definition:
Lintel

Lin"tel
(lĭn"tĕl)
n.
[OF. lintel, F. linteau, LL. lintellus, for limitellus, a dim. fr. L. limes limit. See Limit.]
(Arch.)
A horizontal member spanning an opening, and carrying the superincumbent weight by means of its strength in resisting crosswise fracture.


word: Lintwhite
definition:
Lintwhite

Lintie

{ Lin"tie (lĭn"tĭ), Lint"white` (lĭnt"hwīt`) }
n.
[AS. līnetwige. See Linnet.]
(Zool.)
See Linnet.
Tennyson.


word: Linum
definition:
Linum

Li"num
(lī"nŭm)
n.
[L., flax.]
(Bot.)
A genus of herbaceous plants including the flax (Linum usitatissimum).


word: Lion
definition:
Lion

Li"on
(lī"ŭn)
n.
[F. lion, L. leo, -onis, akin to Gr. le`wn.  Cf. Chameleon, Dandelion, Leopard.]
1.
(Zool.)
A large carnivorous feline mammal (Panthera leo, formerly Felis leo), found in Southern Asia and in most parts of Africa, distinct varieties occurring in the different countries. The adult male, in most varieties, has a thick mane of long shaggy hair that adds to his apparent size, which is less than that of the largest tigers. The length, however, is sometimes eleven feet to the base of the tail. The color is a tawny yellow or yellowish brown; the mane is darker, and the terminal tuft of the tail is black. In one variety, called the maneless lion, the male has only a slight mane.

2.
(Astron.)
A sign and a constellation; Leo.

3.
An object of interest and curiosity, especially a person who is so regarded; as, he was quite a lion in London at that time.

Such society was far more enjoyable than that of Edinburgh, for here he was not a lion, but a man.
Prof. Wilson.

American lion (Zool.), the puma or cougar. -- Lion ant (Zool.), the ant-lion. -- Lion dog (Zool.), a fancy dog with a flowing mane, usually clipped to resemble a lion's mane. -- Lion lizard (Zool.), the basilisk. -- Lion's share, all, or nearly all; the best or largest part; -- from Aesop's fable of the lion hunting in company with certain smaller beasts, and appropriating to himself all the prey. -- Lion of Lucerne,  a famous sculptured lion at Lucerne, Switzerland, designed by Thorwaldsen and dedicated in 1821 as a memorial to the Swiss Guards who fell defending Louis XVI. in the attack of the mob on the Tuileries, Aug. 10, 1792. The animal, which is hewn out of the face of a rock, is represented as transfixed with a broken spear and dying, but still trying to protect with its paw a shield bearing the fleur-de-lis of France. -- Lion of St. Mark, a winged lion, the emblem of the evangelist Mark, especially that of bronze surmounting a granite column in the Piazzetta at Venice, and holding in its fore paws an open book representing St. Mark's Gospel. -- Lion of the North, Gustavus Adolphus (1594-1632), King of Sweden, the hero of the Protestant faith in the Thirty Years' War.


word: Lionced
definition:
Lionced

Li"onced
(lī"ŭnst)
a.
(Her.)
Adorned with lions' heads; having arms terminating in lions' heads; -- said of a cross.
[Written also leonced.]


word: Lioncel
definition:
Lioncel

Li"on*cel
(lī"ŭn*sĕl)
n.
[OF., F. lionceau, dim. of lion.]
(Her.)
A small lion, especially one of several borne in the same coat of arms.


word: lion-hunter
definition:
lion-hunter

lion-hunter
n.
1.
someone who tries to attract social lions as guests.

2.
someone who hunts lions.


word: Lionism
definition:
Lionism

Li"on*ism
(lī"ŭn*ĭz'm)
n.
An attracting of attention, as a lion; also, the treating or regarding as a lion.


word: Lionize
definition:
Lionize

Li"on*ize
(lī"ŭn*īz)
v. t.
[imp. &  p. p. Lionized (lī"ŭn*īzd), p. pr. & vb. n. Lionizing (lī"ŭn*ī`zĭng).]
1.
To treat or regard as a lion or object of great interest.
J. D. Forbes.

2.
To show the lions or objects of interest to; to conduct about among objects of interest.
Macaulay.


word: Lion's ear
definition:
Lion's ear

Li"on's ear`
(lī"ŭnz ēr`)
n.
(Bot.)
A name given in Western South America to certain plants with shaggy tomentose leaves, as species of Culcitium, and Espeletia.


word: Lion's foot
definition:
Lion's foot

Li"on's foot`
(lī"ŭnz fŏt`)
n.
(Bot.)
(a)
 A composite plant of the genus Prenanthes, of which several species are found in the United States.
(b)
The edelweiss.


word: Lion's leaf
definition:
Lion's leaf

Li"on's leaf`
(lī"ŭnz lēf`)
n.
(Bot.)
A South European plant of the genus Leontice (Leontice leontopetalum), the tuberous roots of which contain so much alkali that they are sometimes used as a substitute for soap.


word: Lion's tail
definition:
Lion's tail

Li"on's tail`
(lī"ŭnz tāl`)
n.
(Bot.)
A genus of labiate plants (Leonurus); -- so called from a fancied resemblance of its flower spikes to the tuft of a lion's tail. Leonurus Cardiaca is the common motherwort.


word: Lip
definition:
Lip

Lip
(lĭp)
n.
[OE. lippe, AS. lippa; akin to D. lip, G. lippe, lefze, OHG. lefs, Dan. læbe, Sw. läpp, L. labium, labrum.  Cf. Labial.]
1.
One of the two fleshy folds which surround the orifice of the mouth in man and many other animals. In man the lips are organs of speech essential to certain articulations. Hence, by a figure they denote the mouth, or all the organs of speech, and sometimes speech itself.

Thine own lips testify against thee.
Job xv. 6.

2.
An edge of an opening; a thin projecting part of anything; a kind of short open spout; as, the lip of a vessel.

3.
The sharp cutting edge on the end of an auger.

4.
(Bot.)
(a)
One of the two opposite divisions of a labiate corolla.
The odd and peculiar petal in the Orchis family. See Orchidaceous.

5.
(Zool.)
One of the edges of the aperture of a univalve shell.

6.
Impudent or abusive talk; as, don't give me any of your lip.
[Slang]

Syn. -- jaw.

Lip bit, a pod auger. See Auger. -- Lip comfort, comfort that is given with words only. -- Lip comforter, one who comforts with words only. -- Lip labor, unfelt or insincere speech; hypocrisy. Bale. -- Lip reading, the catching of the words or meaning of one speaking by watching the motion of his lips without hearing his voice. Carpenter. -- Lip salve, a salve for sore lips. -- Lip service, expression by the lips of obedience and devotion without the performance of acts suitable to such sentiments. -- Lip wisdom, wise talk without practice, or unsupported by experience. -- Lip work. (a) Talk. (b) Kissing. [Humorous] B. Jonson. -- To make a lip, to drop the under lip in sullenness or contempt. Shak. -- To shoot out the lip (Script.), to show contempt by protruding the lip.


word: Lip₂
definition:
Lip

Lip
v. t.
[imp. &  p. p. Lipped (lĭpt); p. pr. & vb. n. Lipping (-pĭng).]
1.
To touch with the lips; to put the lips to; hence, to kiss.

The bubble on the wine which breaks
Before you lip the glass.
Praed.

A hand that kings
Have lipped and trembled kissing.
Shak.

2.
To utter; to speak.
[R.]
Keats.


word: lipaemia
definition:
lipaemia

lipemia

Li*pæ"mi*a
(lĭ*pē"mĭ*ȧ)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. li`pos fat + a"i^ma blood.]
(Med.)
A condition in which fat occurs in the blood.


word: Lipans
definition:
Lipans

Li*pans"
(le̝*pänz")
n. pl.
sing. Lipan (le̝*pän").
(Ethnol.)
A tribe of North American Indians, inhabiting the northern part of Mexico. They belong to the Tinneh stock, and are closely related to the Apaches.


word: Liparian
definition:
Liparian

Li*pa"ri*an
(lĭ*pā"rĭ*an)
n.
(Zool.)
Any species of a family (Liparidæ) of destructive bombycid moths, as the tussock moths.


word: Liparididae
definition:
Liparididae

Liparidae

Liparidae, Liparididae
n.
A natural family including the snailfishes.

Syn. -- family Liparididae, family Liparidae.


word: liparis
definition:
liparis

liparis
n.
(Bot.)
an orchid of the genus Liparis having few leaves and usually fairly small yellow-green or dull purple flowers in terminal racemes.

2.
(Zool.)
The type genus of the Liparididae, consisting of certain of the snailfishes.

Syn. -- genus Liparis.


word: Liparite
definition:
Liparite

Lip"a*rite
(lĭp"ȧ*rīt)
n.
[So called from Lipari, the island.]
(Min.)
A quartzose trachyte; rhyolite.


word: lipemia
definition:
lipemia

lip*e"mi*a
(lĭp*ē"me̝*ȧ)
n.
[Gr. li`pos fat + 'ai^ma blood.]
(Med.)
The presence of an abnormally high concentration of lipid in the blood.  Called also hyperlipemia, hyperlipidemia, hyperlipoidemia, lipidemia, lipoidemia.


word: lip fern
definition:
lip fern

lipfern

lipfern, lip fern
n.
(Bot.)
any of various terrestrial ferns of the genus Cheilanthes; they are cosmopolitan in arid and semi-arid temperate or tropical regions.


word: Lipic
definition:
Lipic

Lip"ic
(lĭp"ĭk)
a.
[Gr. li`pos fat.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or derived from, fat. The word was formerly used specifically to designate a supposed acid obtained by the oxidation of oleic acid, tallow, wax, etc.


word: lipid
definition:
lipid

lip"id
n.
[Gr. li`pos fat.]
(Chem., Biochem.)
Any of a variety of oily or greasy organic compounds found as major structural components of living cells; they are insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as alcohol and ether, and include the common fats, cholesterol and other steroids, phospholipids, sphingolipids, waxes, and fatty acids; some of the lipids, together with proteins and carbohydrates, form an essential structural component of living cells, as in the cell walls and membranes.  The term lipid refers to its solubility in nonpolar solvents, and has no significance with regard to chemical structure.

Syn. -- lipide, lipoid.


word: lipid-lowering
definition:
lipid-lowering

lipid-lowering
a.
(Med.)
Serving to reduce the concentration of lipid, such as cholesterol, in the blood; -- of medications, such as Mevinolin, that are used especially to reduce blood cholesterol, as a preventive measure against heart disease.


word: lipidosis
definition:
lipidosis

lip`id*o"sis
(lĭp`ĭd*&omacr"sĭs)
n.
(Med.)
A disorder of lipid metabolism, whether congenital or acquired.


word: Lipocephala
definition:
Lipocephala

Lip`o*ceph"a*la
(lĭp`o̝*sĕf"ȧ*lȧ)
n. pl.
[NL., fr. Gr. lei`pesqai to be lacking + kefalh` head.]
(Zool.)
Same as Lamellibranchia.


word: Lipochrin
definition:
Lipochrin

Lip"o*chrin
(lĭp"o̝*krĭn)
n.
[Gr. li`pos fat + chro`a color.]
(Physiol. Chem.)
A yellow coloring matter, soluble in ether, contained in the small round fat drops in the retinal epithelium cells. It is best obtained from the eyes of frogs.


word: Lipogram
definition:
Lipogram

Lip"o*gram
(lĭp"o̝*grăm; 277)
n.
[Gr. lei`pein, lipei^n, to leave, omit + -gram.]
A writing composed of words not having a certain letter or letters; -- as in the Odyssey of Tryphiodorus there was no A in the first book, no B in the second, and so on.


word: Lipogrammatic
definition:
Lipogrammatic

Lip`o*gram*mat"ic
(lĭp`o̝*grăm*măt"ĭk)
a.
[Gr. lipogra`mmatos: cf. F. lipogrammatique.]
Omitting a letter; composed of words not having a certain letter or letters; as, lipogrammatic writings.


word: Lipogrammatist
definition:
Lipogrammatist

Lip`o*gram"ma*tist
(-grăm"mȧ*tĭst)
n.
[Cf. F. lipogrammatiste.]
One who makes a lipogram.


word: Lipoma
definition:
Lipoma

Li*po"ma
(lĭ*p&omacr"mȧ)
n.
[NL., from Gr. li`pos fat + -oma.]
(Med.)
A tumor consisting of fat or adipose tissue.
Li*pom"a*tous (-p&obreve_;m"ȧ*tŭs), a.


word: lipophilic
definition:
lipophilic

lipophilic
adj.
(Chem.)
having an affinity for lipids; -- of chemical substances or parts of molecules.  Contrasted to lipophobic or polar.

Syn. -- lipotropic, nonpolar.


word: lipophobic
definition:
lipophobic

lipophobic
adj.
(Chem.)
Not soluble in lipids, or in non-polar solvents; -- of chemical substances or parts of molecules; as, the lipophobic end of a detergent is solvated in water.  Contrasted to lipophilic or nonpolar.


word: Lipothymic
definition:
Lipothymic

Li`po*thym"ic
(lī`po̝*thĭm"ĭk)
a.
[Gr. leipoqymiko`s, lipoqymiko`s.]
Tending to swoon; fainting.
[Written also leipothymic.]


word: Lipothymous
definition:
Lipothymous

Li*poth"y*mous
(li̝*p&obreve_;th"ĭ*mŭs)
a.
[Gr. lei`pein to leave, to lack + qymo`s soul, life.]
Pertaining, or given, to swooning; fainting.


word: Lipothymy
definition:
Lipothymy

Li*poth"y*my
(li̝*p&obreve_;th"ĭ*m&ybreve_;)
n.
[Gr. lipoqymi`a: cf. F. lipothymie.]
A fainting; a swoon.
Jer. Taylor.


word: Lipotyphla
definition:
Lipotyphla

Lipotyphla
n.
A suborder of mammals including the moles; hedgehogs; and true shrews.

Syn. -- suborder Lipotyphla.


word: Lipped
definition:
Lipped

Lipped
(lĭpt)
a.
1.
Having a lip or lips; having a raised or rounded edge resembling the lip; -- often used in composition; as, thick-lipped, thin-lipped, etc.

2.
(Bot.)
Labiate.


word: Lippitude
definition:
Lippitude

Lip"pi*tude
(lĭp"pĭ*tūd)
n.
[L. lippitudo, fr. lippus blear-eyed: cf. F. lippitude.]
Soreness of eyes; the state of being blear-eyed; blearedness.


word: Lipyl
definition:
Lipyl

Lip"yl
(lĭp"ĭl)
n.
[Gr. li`pos fat + -yl.]
(Chem.)
A hypothetical radical of glycerin.
[Obs.]
Berzelius.


word: Liquate
definition:
Liquate

Li"quate
(lī"kwāt)
v. i.
[L. liquatus, p. p. of liquare to melt.]
To melt; to become liquid.
[Obs.]
Woodward.


word: Liquate₂
definition:
Liquate

Li"quate
v. t.
(Metal.)
To separate by fusion, as a more fusible from a less fusible material.


word: Liquation
definition:
Liquation

Li*qua"tion
(li̝*kwā"shŭn)
n.
[L. liquatio: cf. F. liquation.]
1.
The act or operation of making or becoming liquid; also, the capacity of becoming liquid.

2.
(Metal.)
The process of separating, by heat, an easily fusible metal from one less fusible; eliquation.


word: Liquefacient
definition:
Liquefacient

Liq`ue*fa"cient
(lĭk`we̝*fā"shent)
n.
[L. liquefaciens, p. pr. of liquefacere. See Liquefy.]
1.
That which serves to liquefy.

2.
(Med.)
An agent, as mercury, iodine, etc., which promotes the liquefying processes of the system, and increases the secretions.


word: Liquefaction
definition:
Liquefaction

Liq`ue*fac"tion
(lĭk`we̝*făk"shŭn)
n.
[L. liquefactio: cf. F. liquéfaction. See Liquefy.]
1.
The act or operation of making or becoming liquid; especially, the conversion of a solid into a liquid by the sole agency of heat.

2.
The state of being liquid.

3.
(Chem. Physics)
The act, process, or method, of reducing a gas or vapor to a liquid by means of cold or pressure; as, the liquefaction of oxygen or hydrogen.


word: Liquefiable
definition:
Liquefiable

Liq"ue*fi`a*ble
(lĭk"we̝*fī`ȧ*b'l)
a.
[Cf. F. liquéfiable. See Liquefy.]
Capable of being changed from a solid to a liquid state.


word: liquefied
definition:
liquefied

liquefied
adj.
1.
converted to a liquid; as, liquified natural gas; liquified coal.

Syn. -- liquified.

2.
rendered liquid by heating; changed from a solid to a liquid state; melted.

Syn. -- molten, liquified.

3.
rendered liquid by dissolution in a solvent; -- of solids.

Syn. -- dissolved, liquified.


word: Liquefy
definition:
Liquefy

Liq"ue*fy
(lĭk"we̝*fī)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Liquefied (-fīd); p. pr. & vb. n. Liquefying (-fī`ĭng).]
[F. liquéfier, L. liquere to be liquid + facere, -ficare (in comp.), to make. See Liquid, and -fy.]
1.
To convert from a solid form to that of a liquid; to melt; to dissolve; and technically, to melt by the sole agency of heat.
[wns=1]

2.
To convert from a gaseous form into a liquid; as, to liquefy natural gas.


word: Liquescency
definition:
Liquescency

Li*ques"cen*cy
(li̝*kwĕs"sen*s&ybreve_;)
n.
[See Liquescent.]
The quality or state of being liquescent.
Johnson.


word: Liquescent
definition:
Liquescent

Li*ques"cent
(li̝*kwĕs"sent)
a.
[L. liquescens, p. pr. of liquescere to become liquid, incho. fr. liquere to be liquid.]
Tending to become liquid; inclined to melt; melting.


word: Liqueur
definition:
Liqueur

Li`queur"
(le̝`kẽr")
n.
[F. See Liquor.]
An aromatic alcoholic cordial.

&hand_; Some liqueurs are prepared by infusing certain woods, fruits, or flowers, in either water or alcohol, and adding sugar, etc. Others are distilled from aromatic or flavoring agents.


word: Liquid
definition:
Liquid

Liq"uid
(lĭk"wĭd)
a.
[L. liquidus, fr. liquere to be fluid or liquid; cf. Skr. rī to ooze, drop, lī to melt.]
1.
Flowing freely like water; fluid; not solid.

Yea, though he go upon the plane and liquid water which will receive no step.
Tyndale.

2.
(Physics)
Being in such a state that the component molecules move freely among themselves, but have a definite volume changing only slightly with changes of pressure, and do not tend to separate from each other as the particles of gases and vapors do when the volume of the container is increased; neither solid nor gaseous; as, liquid mercury, in distinction from mercury solidified or in a state of vapor.
Liquid substances may form a definite interface with gases, whereas the molecules of different gases freely intermingle with each other.

3.
Flowing or sounding smoothly or without abrupt transitions or harsh tones.
Liquid
Crashaw.

4.
Pronounced without any jar or harshness; smooth; as, l and r are liquid letters.

5.
Fluid and transparent; as, the liquid air.

6.
Clear; definite in terms or amount.
[Obs.]
liquid
Ayliffe.
7.
(Finance)
In cash or readily convertible into cash without loss of principle; -- said of assets, such as bank accounts, or short-term bonds tradable on a major stock exchange.

Liquid glass. See Soluble glass, under Glass.


word: Liquid₂
definition:
Liquid

Liq"uid
n.
1.
A substance whose parts change their relative position on the slightest pressure, and therefore retain no definite form; any substance in the state of liquidity; a fluid that is not gaseous and has a definite volume independent, of the container in which it is held. Liquids have a fixed volume at any given pressure, but their shape is determined by the container in which it is contained.  Liquids, in contrast to gases, cannot expand indefinitely to fill an expanding container, and are only slightly compressible by application of pressure.

&hand_; Liquid and fluid are terms often used synonymously, but fluid has the broader signification. All liquids are fluids, but many fluids, as air and the gases, are not liquids.

2.
(Phon.)
A letter which has a smooth, flowing sound, or which flows smoothly after a mute; as, l and r, in bla, bra. M and n also are called liquids.

Liquid measure, a measure, or system of measuring, for liquids, by the gallon, quart, pint, gill, etc.


word: Liquid air
definition:
Liquid air

Liq"uid air
(Physics)
A transparent limpid liquid, slightly blue in color, consisting of a mixture of liquefied oxygen and nitrogen. It is prepared by subjecting air to great pressure and then cooling it by its own expansion to a temperature below the boiling point of its constituents  (N: -194° C; O: -183° C.).


word: Liquidambar
definition:
Liquidambar

Liq"uid*am`bar
(lĭk"wĭd*ăm`bẽr)
n.
[Liquid + amber.]
1.
(Bot.)
A genus consisting of two species of tall trees having star-shaped leaves, and woody burlike fruit. Liquidambar styraciflua is the North American sweet qum, and Liquidambar Orientalis is found in Asia Minor.

2.
The balsamic juice which is obtained from these trees by incision.  The liquid balsam of the Oriental tree is liquid storax.


word: Liquidate
definition:
Liquidate

Liq"ui*date
(lĭk"wĭ*dāt)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Liquidated (-dā`tĕd); p. pr. & vb. n. Liquidating.]
[LL. liquidatus, p. p. of liquidare to liquidate, fr. L. liquidus liquid, clear. See Liquid.]
1.
(Law)
To determine by agreement or by litigation the precise amount of (indebtedness); or, where there is an indebtedness to more than one person, to determine the precise amount of (each indebtedness); to make the amount of (an indebtedness) clear and certain.

A debt or demand is liquidated whenever the amount due is agreed on by the parties, or fixed by the operation of law.
15 Ga. Rep. 321.

If our epistolary accounts were fairly liquidated, I believe you would be brought in considerable debtor.
Chesterfield.

2.
In an extended sense: To ascertain the amount, or the several amounts, of, and apply assets toward the discharge of (an indebtedness).
Abbott.

3.
To discharge; to pay off or settle, as an indebtedness.

Friburg was ceded to Zurich by Sigismund to liquidate a debt of a thousand florins.
W. Coxe.

4.
To make clear and intelligible.

Time only can liquidate the meaning of all parts of a compound system.
A. Hamilton.

5.
To make liquid.
[Obs.]

6.
To convert (assets) into cash.

7.
To kill; -- used mostly of governments or organizations killing their enemies; as, Stalin liquidated many of the Kulaks.

8.
To dissolve (an organization); to terminate (an activity).

Liquidated damages (Law), damages the amount of which is fixed or ascertained. Abbott.


word: Liquidation
definition:
Liquidation

Liq`ui*da"tion
(lĭk`wĭ*dā"shŭn)
n.
[Cf. F. liquidation.]
The act or process of liquidating; the state of being liquidated.

To go into liquidation (Law), to turn over to a trustee one's assets and accounts, in order that the several amounts of one's indebtedness may be authoritatively ascertained, and that the assets may be applied toward their discharge.


word: Liquidator
definition:
Liquidator

Liq"ui*da`tor
(lĭk"wĭ*dā`tẽr)
n.
[Cf. F. liquidateur.]
1.
One who, or that which, liquidates.

2.
An officer appointed to conduct the winding up of a company, to bring and defend actions and suits in its name, and to do all necessary acts on behalf of the company.
[Eng.]
Mozley & W.


word: liquidise
definition:
liquidise

liquidise
v. t.
Same as liquidize.

Syn. -- liquefy, liquify, make liquid, liquidize, make fluid.


word: Liquidity
definition:
Liquidity

Li*quid"i*ty
(lĭ*kwĭd"ĭ*t&ybreve_;)
n.
[L. liquiditas, fr. liquidus liquid: cf. F.  liquidité.]
The state or quality of being liquid.


word: Liquidize
definition:
Liquidize

Liq"uid*ize
(lĭk"wĭd*īz)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Liquidized (-īzd); p. pr. & vb. n. Liquidizing (-ī`zĭng).]
To render liquid.


word: liquify
definition:
liquify

liquify
v. t. & i.
1.
Same as liquefy.

Syn. -- , make liquid, liquidize, liquidise, make fluid.


word: Liquor
definition:
Liquor

Liq"uor
(lĭk"ẽr)
n.
[OE. licour, licur, OF. licur, F. liqueur, fr. L. liquor, fr. liquere to be liquid. See Liquid, and cf. Liqueur.]
1.
Any liquid substance, as water, milk, blood, sap, juice, or the like.

2.
Specifically, alcoholic or spirituous fluid, either distilled or fermented, as brandy, wine, whisky, beer, etc.

3.
(Pharm.)
A solution of a medicinal substance in water; -- distinguished from tincture and aqua.

&hand_; The U. S. Pharmacopoeia includes, in this class of preparations, all aqueous solutions without sugar, in which the substance acted on is wholly soluble in water, excluding those in which the dissolved matter is gaseous or very volatile, as in the aquæ or waters.
U. S. Disp.

Labarraque's liquor (Old Chem.), a solution of an alkaline hypochlorite, as sodium hypochlorite, used in bleaching and as a disinfectant. -- Liquor of flints, or Liquor silicum (Old Chem.), soluble glass; -- so called because formerly made from powdered flints. See Soluble glass, under Glass. -- Liquor of Libavius. (Old Chem.) See Fuming liquor of Libavius, under Fuming. -- Liquor sanguinis (săn"gwĭn*ĭs), (Physiol.), the blood plasma. -- Liquor thief, a tube for taking samples of liquor from a cask through the bung hole. -- To be in liquor, to be intoxicated.


word: Liquor₂
definition:
Liquor

Liq"uor
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Liquored (lĭk"ẽrd); p. pr. & vb. n. Liquoring.]
1.
To supply with liquor.
[R.]

2.
To grease.
[Obs.]
Bacon.

Liquor fishermen's boots.
Shak.


word: Lira
definition:
Lira

Li"ra
(lē"rȧ)
n.
pl. Lire (lē"ra̝).
[It., fr. L. libra the Roman pound.  Cf. Livre.]
An Italian coin equivalent in value to the French franc.


word: Lirella
definition:
Lirella

Li*rel"la
(li̝*rĕl"lȧ)
n.
[NL., dim. of L. lira a furrow.]
(Bot.)
A linear apothecium furrowed along the middle; the fruit of certain lichens.


word: Lirelliform
definition:
Lirelliform

Li*rel"li*form
(li̝*rĕl"lĭ*fôrm)
a.
[Lirella + -form.]
(Bot.)
Like a lirella.
[Written also lirellæform.]


word: Liriodendron
definition:
Liriodendron

Lir`i*o*den"dron
(lĭr`ĭ*o̝*dĕn"dr&obreve_;n)
n.
pl. Liriodendra (-drȧ).
[NL., fr. Gr. lei`rion lily + de`ndron tree.]
(Bot.)
A genus of large and very beautiful trees of North America, having smooth, shining leaves, and handsome, tuliplike flowers; tulip tree; whitewood; -- called also canoewood. Liriodendron tulipifera is the only extant species, but there were several others in the Cretaceous epoch.


word: Liripoop
definition:
Liripoop

Lir"i*poop
(lĭr"ĭ*pōp)
n.
[OF. liripipion, liripion, LL. liripipium. Said to be corrupted from L. cleri ephippium, lit., the clergy's caparison.]
1.
A pendent part of the old clerical tippet; afterwards, a tippet; a scarf; -- worn also by doctors, learned men, etc.
[Obs.]

2.
Acuteness; smartness; also, a smart trick or stratagem.
[Obs.]
Stanihurst.

3.
A silly person.
[Obs.]

A liripoop, vel lerripoop, a silly, empty creature; an old dotard.
Milles. MS. Devon Gloss.


word: Liroconite
definition:
Liroconite

Li*roc"o*nite
(li̝*r&obreve_;k"o̝*nīt)
n.
[Gr. leiro`s pale + koni`a powder.]
(Min.)
A hydrated arseniate of copper, occurring in obtuse pyramidal crystals of a sky-blue or verdigris-green color.


word: Lisbon
definition:
Lisbon

Lis"bon
(lĭz"b&obreve_;n)
n.
A sweet, light-colored species of wine, produced in the province of Estremadura, and so called as being shipped from Lisbon, in Portugal.


word: Lisle
definition:
Lisle

Lisle
(līl)
n.
A city of France celebrated for certain manufactures.

Lisle glove, a fine summer glove, made of Lisle thread. -- Lisle lace, a fine handmade lace, made at Lisle. -- Lisle thread, a hard twisted cotton thread, originally produced at Lisle.


word: Lisne
definition:
Lisne

Lisne
(līn)
n.
[Prov. E. lissen, lisne, a cleft in a rock.]
A cavity or hollow.
[Obs.]
Sir M. Hale.


word: Lisp
definition:
Lisp

Lisp
(lĭsp)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Lisped (lĭspt); p. pr. & vb. n. Lisping.]
[OE. lispen, lipsen, AS. wlisp stammering, lisping; akin to D. & OHG. lispen to lisp, G. lispeln, Sw. läspa, Dan. lespe.]
1.
To pronounce the sibilant letter s imperfectly; to give s and z the sound of th; -- a defect common among children.

2.
To speak with imperfect articulation; to mispronounce, as a child learning to talk.

As yet a child, nor yet a fool to fame,
I lisped in numbers, for the numbers came.
Pope.

3.
To speak hesitatingly with a low voice, as if afraid.

Lest when my lisping, guilty tongue should halt.
Drayton.


word: Lisp₂
definition:
Lisp

Lisp
v. t.
1.
To pronounce with a lisp.

2.
To utter with imperfect articulation; to express with words pronounced imperfectly or indistinctly, as a child speaks; hence, to express by the use of simple, childlike language.

To speak unto them after their own capacity, and to lisp the words unto them according as the babes and children of that age might sound them again.
Tyndale.

3.
To speak with reserve or concealment; to utter timidly or confidentially; as, to lisp treason.


word: Lisp₃
definition:
Lisp

Lisp
n.
The habit or act of lisping. See Lisp, v. i., 1.

I overheard her answer, with a very pretty lisp, “O! Strephon, you are a dangerous creature.”
Tatler.


word: LISP
definition:
LISP

LISP
(lĭsp)
n.
(Computers)
[List Processing.]
a high-level computer programming language in which statements and data are in the form of lists, enclosed in parentheses; -- used especially for rapid development of prototype programs in artificial intelligence applications .


word: Lissencephala
definition:
Lissencephala

Lis`sen*ceph"a*la
(lĭs`sĕn*sĕf"ȧ*lȧ)
n. pl.
[NL., fr. Gr. lisso`s smooth + 'egke`falos the brain.]
(Zool.)
A general name for all those placental mammals that have a brain with few or no cerebral convolutions, as Rodentia, Insectivora, etc.


word: Lissome
definition:
Lissome

Lissom

{ Lis"som, Lis"some  }
(lĭs"sŭm)
a.
[For lithesome.]
1.
Limber; supple; flexible; lithe; lithesome.

Straight, but as lissome as a hazel wand.
Tennyson.

2.
Light; nimble; active.
Halliwell.


word: List
definition:
List

List
(lĭst)
n.
[F. lice, LL. liciae, pl., from L. licium thread, girdle.]
A line inclosing or forming the extremity of a piece of ground, or field of combat; hence, in the plural (lists), the ground or field inclosed for a race or combat.
Chaucer.

In measured lists to toss the weighty lance.
Pope.

To enter the lists, to accept a challenge, or engage in contest.


word: List₃
definition:
List

List
v. i.
[See Listen.]
To hearken; to attend; to listen.
[Obs. except in poetry.]

Stand close, and list to him.
Shak.


word: List₄
definition:
List

List
v. t.
To listen or hearken to.

Then weigh what loss your honor may sustain,
If with too credent ear you list his songs.
Shak.


word: List₅
definition:
List

List
v. i.
[OE. listen, lusten, AS. lystan, from lust pleasure. See Lust.]
1.
To desire or choose; to please.

The wind bloweth where it listeth.
John iii. 8.

Them that add to the Word of God what them listeth.
Hooker.

Let other men think of your devices as they list.
Whitgift.

2.
(Naut.)
To lean; to incline; as, the ship lists to port.


word: List₆
definition:
List

List
n.
1.
Inclination; desire.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.

2.
(Naut.)
An inclination to one side; as, the ship has a list to starboard.


word: List₇
definition:
List

List
n.
[AS. līst a list of cloth; akin to D. lijst, G. leiste, OHG. līsta, Icel. lista, listi, Sw. list, Dan. liste. In sense 5 from F. liste, of German origin, and thus ultimately the same word.]
1.
A strip forming the woven border or selvedge of cloth, particularly of broadcloth, and serving to strengthen it; hence, a strip of cloth; a fillet.
list
Shak.

2.
A limit or boundary; a border.

The very list, the very utmost bound,
Of all our fortunes.
Shak.

3.
The lobe of the ear; the ear itself.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.

4.
A stripe.
[Obs.]
Sir T. Browne.

5.
A roll or catalogue, that is, row or line; a record of names; as, a list of names, books, articles; a list of ratable estate.

He was the ablest emperor of all the list.
Bacon.

6.
(Arch.)
A little square molding; a fillet; -- called also listel.

7.
(Carp.)
A narrow strip of wood, esp. sapwood, cut from the edge of a plank or board.

8.
(Rope Making)
A piece of woolen cloth with which the yarns are grasped by a workman.

9.
(Tin-plate Manuf.)
(a)
The first thin coat of tin.
(b)
A wirelike rim of tin left on an edge of the plate after it is coated.

Civil list (Great Britain & U.S.), the civil officers of government, as judges, ambassadors, secretaries, etc. Hence, the revenues or appropriations of public money for the support of the civil officers. More recently, the civil list, in England, embraces only the expenses of the reigning monarch's household. -- Free list. (a) A list of articles admitted to a country free of duty. (b) A list of persons admitted to any entertainment, as a theater or opera, without payment, or to whom a periodical, or the like, is furnished without cost.


word: List₈
definition:
List

List
(lĭst)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Listed; p. pr. & vb. n. Listing.]
[From list a roll.]
1.
To sew together, as strips of cloth, so as to make a show of colors, or form a border.
Sir H. Wotton.

2.
To cover with list, or with strips of cloth; to put list on; as, to list a door; to stripe as if with list.

The tree that stood white-listed through the gloom.
Tennyson.

3.
To enroll; to place or register in a list.

Listed among the upper serving men.
Milton.

4.
To engage, as a soldier; to enlist.

I will list you for my soldier.
Sir W. Scott.

5.
(Carp.)
To cut away a narrow strip, as of sapwood, from the edge of; as, to list a board.

To list a stock (Stock Exchange), to put it in the list of stocks called at the meeting of the board.


word: List₁₀
definition:
List

List
(lĭst)
v. t.
1.
To plow and plant with a lister.

2.
In cotton culture, to prepare, as land, for the crop by making alternating beds and alleys with the hoe.
[Southern U. S.]


word: listed
definition:
listed

listed
adj.
1.
placed on a list.  Opposite of unlisted.
catalogued
recorded 
traded 

2.
officially entered in a roll or list; as, listed on a stock exchange; a listed securities trader.

Syn. -- enrolled.


word: Listel
definition:
Listel

List"el
(lĭs"tĕl)
n.
[F. listel, dim. of liste fillet, list. See List the edge.]
(Arch.)
Same as List, n., 6.


word: Listen
definition:
Listen

Lis"ten
(lĭs"'n)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Listened (lĭs"'nd); p. pr. & vb. n. Listening.]
[OE. listnen, listen, lustnen, lusten, AS. hlystan; akin to hlyst hearing, OS. hlust, Icel. hlusta to listen, hlust ear, AS. hlosnian to wait in suspense, OHG. hlosēn to listen, Gr. kly`ein, and E. loud. √41. See Loud, and cf. List to listen.]
1.
To give close attention with the purpose of hearing; to give ear; to hearken; to attend.

When we have occasion to listen, and give a more particular attention to some sound, the tympanum is drawn to a more than ordinary tension.
Holder.

2.
To give heed; to yield to advice; to follow admonition; to obey.

Listen to me, and by me be ruled.
Tennyson.

To listen after, to take an interest in. [Obs.]

Soldiers note forts, armories, and magazines; scholars listen after libraries, disputations, and professors.
Fuller.


word: Lister₄
definition:
Lister

List"er
(lĭst"ẽr)
n.
[Cf. List a strip, border, prob. applied to the furrow or the ridge of earth along the furrow.]
A double-moldboard plow which throws a deep furrow, and at the same time plants and covers grain in the bottom of the furrow.


word: Listerism
definition:
Listerism

Lis"ter*ism
(lĭs"tẽr*ĭz'm)
n.
(Med.)
The systematic use of antiseptics in the performance of operations and the treatment of wounds; -- so called from Joseph Lister, an English surgeon.


word: Listerize
definition:
Listerize

Lis"ter*ize
(lĭs"tẽr*īz)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Listerized (lĭs"tẽr*īzd); p. pr. & vb. n. Listerizing (lĭs"tẽr*īz*ĭng).]
(Med.)
To make antiseptic.


word: Listing
definition:
Listing

List"ing
n.
1.
The act or process of one who lists (in any sense of the verb); as, the listing of a door; the listing of a stock at the Stock Exchange.

2.
The selvedge of cloth; list.

3.
(Carp.)
The sapwood cut from the edge of a board.

4.
(Agric.)
The throwing up of the soil into ridges, -- a method adopted in the culture of beets and some garden crops.
[Local, U. S.]


word: Listless
definition:
Listless

List"less
a.
[OE. listles, lustles. See Lust.]
Having no desire or inclination; indifferent; heedless; spiritless.
listless
Thomson.

Benumbed with cold, and listless of their gain.
Dryden.

I was listless, and desponding.
Swift.


word: Lit
definition:
Lit

Lit
(lĭt)
1.
a form of the imp. & p. p. of Light.

2.
Under the influence of alcohol; intoxicated; inebriated; drunk; -- often used with up.
[slang]


word: Litany
definition:
Litany

Lit"a*ny
(lĭt"ȧ*n&ybreve_;)
n.
pl. Litanies (lĭt"ȧ*nĭz).
[OE. letanie, OF. letanie, F. litanie, L. litania, Gr. litanei`a, fr. litaney`ein to pray, akin to li`tesqai, li`ssesqai, to pray, lith` prayer.]
A solemn form of supplication in the public worship of various churches, in which the clergy and congregation join, the former leading and the latter responding in alternate sentences. It is usually of a penitential character.

Supplications . . . for the appeasing of God's wrath were of the Greek church termed litanies, and rogations of the Latin.
Hooker.


word: Litchi
definition:
Litchi

Li"tchi`
(lē"chē`)
n.
(Bot.)
The fruit of a tree native to China (Nephelium Litchi). It is nutlike, having a rough but tender shell, containing an aromatic pulp, and a single large seed. In the dried fruit which is exported the pulp somewhat resembles a raisin in color and form.
[Written also lichi, and lychee.]

2.
(Bot.)
A genus of East Indian sapindaceous trees consisting of a single species (Litchi Chinensis, syn. Nephelium Litchi) which bears the litchi nut.


word: Litre
definition:
Litre

Liter

{ Li"ter, Li"tre  }
(lē"tẽr; 277)
n.
[F. litre, Gr. li`tra a silver coin.]
A measure of capacity in the metric system, being a cubic decimeter, equal to 61.022 cubic inches, or 2.113 American pints, or 1.76 English pints.


word: Literal
definition:
Literal

Lit"er*al
(lĭt"ẽr*al)
a.
[F. litéral, littéral, L. litteralis, literalis, fr. littera, litera, a letter. See Letter.]
1.
According to the letter or verbal expression; real; not figurative or metaphorical; as, the literal meaning of a phrase.

It hath but one simple literal sense whose light the owls can not abide.
Tyndale.

2.
Following the letter or exact words; not free.

A middle course between the rigor of literal translations and the liberty of paraphrasts.
Hooker.

3.
Consisting of, or expressed by, letters.

The literal notation of numbers was known to Europeans before the ciphers.
Johnson.

4.
Giving a strict or literal construction; unimaginative; matter-of-fact; -- applied to persons.

Literal contract (Law), a contract of which the whole evidence is given in writing. Bouvier. -- Literal equation (Math.), an equation in which known quantities are expressed either wholly or in part by means of letters; -- distinguished from a numerical equation.


word: Literalism
definition:
Literalism

Lit"er*al*ism
(lĭt"ẽr*al*ĭz'm)
n.
1.
That which accords with the letter; a mode of interpreting literally; adherence to the letter.

2.
(Fine Arts)
The tendency or disposition to represent objects faithfully, without abstraction, conventionalities, or idealization.


word: Literalist
definition:
Literalist

Lit"er*al*ist
n.
One who adheres to the letter or exact word; an interpreter according to the letter.


word: Literality
definition:
Literality

Lit`er*al"i*ty
(lĭt`ẽr*ăl"ĭ*t&ybreve_;)
n.
[Cf. F. littéralité.]
The state or quality of being literal.
Sir T. Browne.


word: Literalization
definition:
Literalization

Lit`er*al*i*za"tion
(lĭt`ẽr*al*ĭ*zā"shŭn)
n.
The act of literalizing; reduction to a literal meaning.


word: Literalize
definition:
Literalize

Lit"er*al*ize
(lĭt"ẽr*al*īz)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Literalized (lĭt"ẽr*al*īzd); p. pr. & vb. n. Literalizing (lĭt"ẽr*al*ī*zĭng).]
To make literal; to interpret or put in practice according to the strict meaning of the words; -- opposed to spiritualize; as, to literalize Scripture.


word: Literally
definition:
Literally

Lit"er*al*ly
adv.
1.
According to the primary and natural import of words; not figuratively; as, a man and his wife can not be literally one flesh.

2.
With close adherence to words; word by word.

So wild and ungovernable a poet can not be translated literally.
Dryden.


word: Literary
definition:
Literary

Lit"er*a*ry
(lĭt"ẽr*a̝*r&ybreve_;)
a.
[L. litterarius, literarius, fr. littera, litera, a letter: cf. F. littéraire. See Letter.]

1.
Of or pertaining to letters or literature; pertaining to learning or learned men; as, literary fame; a literary history; literary conversation.

He has long outlived his century, the term commonly fixed as the test of literary merit.
Johnson.

2.
Versed in, or acquainted with, literature; occupied with literature as a profession; connected with literature or with men of letters; as, a literary man.

In the literary as well as fashionable world.
Mason.

Literary property. (a) Property which consists in written or printed compositions. (b) The exclusive right of publication as recognized and limited by law.


word: Literate
definition:
Literate

Lit"er*ate
(lĭt"ẽr*a̝t)
a.
[L. litteratus, literatus. See Letter.]
Instructed in learning, science, or literature; learned; lettered.

The literate now chose their emperor, as the military chose theirs.
Landor.


word: Literate₂
definition:
Literate

Lit"er*ate
n.
1.
One educated, but not having taken a university degree; especially, such a person who is prepared to take holy orders.
[Eng.]

2.
A literary man.


word: Literati
definition:
Literati

Lit`e*ra"ti
(lĭt`e̝*rä"tē; lĭt`e̝*rā"tī)
n. pl.
[See Literatus.]
Learned or literary men. See Literatus.

Shakespearean commentators, and other literati.
Craik.


word: Literatim
definition:
Literatim

Lit`e*ra"tim
(lĭt`e̝*rä"tĭm)
adv.
[LL., fr. L. littera, litera, letter.]
Letter for letter.


word: Literation
definition:
Literation

Lit`er*a"tion
(lĭt`ẽr*ā"shŭn)
n.
[L. littera, litera, letter.]
The act or process of representing by letters.


word: Literator
definition:
Literator

Lit"er*a`tor
(lĭt"ẽr*ā`tẽr)
n.
[L. litterator, literator. See Letter.]
1.
One who teaches the letters or elements of knowledge; a petty schoolmaster.
Burke.

2.
A person devoted to the study of literary trifles, esp. trifles belonging to the literature of a former age.

That class of subjects which are interesting to the regular literator or black-letter “ bibliomane,” simply because they have once been interesting.
De Quincey.

3.
A learned person; a literatus.
Sir W. Hamilton.


word: Literature
definition:
Literature

Lit"er*a*ture
(lĭt"ẽr*ȧ*t&uuptack_;r; 135)
n.
[F. littérature, L. litteratura, literatura, learning, grammar, writing, fr. littera, litera, letter. See Letter.]
1.
Learning; acquaintance with letters or books.

2.
The collective body of literary productions, embracing the entire results of knowledge and fancy preserved in writing; also, the whole body of literary productions or writings upon a given subject, or in reference to a particular science or branch of knowledge, or of a given country or period; as, the literature of Biblical criticism; the literature of chemistry.

3.
The class of writings distinguished for beauty of style or expression, as poetry, essays, or history, in distinction from scientific treatises and works which contain positive knowledge; belles-lettres.

4.
The occupation, profession, or business of doing literary work.
Lamb.
The origin of all positive science and philosophy, as well as of all literature and art, in the forms in which they exist in civilized Europe, must be traced to the Greeks.
Sir G. C. Lewis.

Learning thy talent is, but mine is sense.
Prior.

Some gentlemen, abounding in their university erudition, fill their sermons with philosophical terms.
Swift.


word: Literatus
definition:
Literatus

Lit`e*ra"tus
(lĭt`e̝*rä"tŭs; lĭt`e̝*rā"tŭs)
n.
pl. Literati (lĭt`e̝*rä"tē; lĭt`e̝*rā"tī).
[L. litteratus, literatus.]
A learned man; a man acquainted with literature; -- chiefly used in the plural.

Now we are to consider that our bright ideal of a literatus may chance to be maimed.
De Quincey.


word: -lite₂
definition:
-lite

-lith

{ -lith (-lĭth), -lite (-līt). }
suff.
Combining forms fr. Gr. li`qos a stone; -- used chiefly in naming minerals and rocks.


word: Lith₂
definition:
Lith

Lith
(lĭth)
n.
[AS. lið.]
A joint or limb; a division; a member; a part formed by growth, and articulated to, or symmetrical with, other parts.
Chaucer.


word: lithaemia
definition:
lithaemia

lithemia

li*thæ"mi*a
(li̝*thē"mĭ*ȧ)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. li`qos stone + a"i^ma blood.]
(Med.)
A condition in which uric (lithic) acid is present in the blood.


word: Lithagogue
definition:
Lithagogue

Lith"a*gogue
(lĭth"ȧ*g&obreve_;g)
n.
[Gr. li`qos stone + 'agwgo`s leading.]
(Med.)
A medicine having, or supposed to have, the power of expelling calculous matter with the urine.
Hooper.


word: Litharge
definition:
Litharge

Lith"arge
(lĭth"ȧrj)
n.
[OE. litarge, F. litharge, L. lithargyrus, Gr. liqa`rgyros the scum or foam of silver; li`qos stone + 'a`rgyros silver. Litharge is found in silverbearing lead ore.]
(Chem.)
Lead monoxide; a yellowish red substance, obtained as an amorphous powder, or crystallized in fine scales, by heating lead moderately in a current of air or by calcining lead nitrate or carbonate. It is used in making flint glass, in glazing earthenware, in making red lead or minium, etc. Called also massicot.


word: Lithargyrum
definition:
Lithargyrum

Li*thar"gy*rum
(lĭ*thär"jĭ*rŭm)
n.
[NL. See Litharge.]
(Old Chem.)
Crystallized litharge, obtained by fusion in the form of fine yellow scales.


word: Lithate
definition:
Lithate

Lith"ate
(lĭth"a̝t)
n.
(Old Med. Chem.)
A salt of lithic or uric acid; a urate.
[Obs.]
[Written also lithiate.]


word: Lithe
definition:
Lithe

Lithe
(lī&thlig_;)
v. t. & i.
[Icel hl&ymacr_;ða. See Listen.]
To listen or listen to; to hearken to.
[Obs.]
P. Plowman.


word: Lithe₂
definition:
Lithe

Lithe
a.
[AS. līðe, for linðe tender, mild, gentle; akin to G. lind, gelind, OHG. lindi, Icel. linr, L. lenis soft, mild, lentus flexible, and AS. linnan to yield.  Cf. Lenient.]
1.
Mild; calm; as, lithe weather.
[Obs.]

2.
Capable of being easily bent; pliant; flexible; limber; as, the elephant's lithe proboscis.
Milton.

Syn. -- lithesome.


word: Lither
definition:
Lither

Li"ther
(lī"&thlig_;ẽr)
a.
[AS. l&ymacr_;ðer bad, wicked.]
Bad; wicked; false; worthless; slothful.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.

Not lither in business, fervent in spirit.
Bp. Woolton.

&hand_; Professor Skeat thinks “ the lither sky” as found in Shakespeare's Henry VI. ((Part I. IV. VII., 21) means the stagnant or pestilential sky.


word: Litherly
definition:
Litherly

Li"ther*ly
a.
Crafty; cunning; mischievous; wicked; treacherous; lazy.
[Archaic]

He [the dwarf] was waspish, arch, and litherly.
Sir W. Scott.


word: Lithesome
definition:
Lithesome

Lithe"some
(lī&thlig_;"sŭm)
a.
[See Lithe, a., and cf. Lissom.]
Pliant; limber; flexible; supple; nimble; lissom.


word: Lithia
definition:
Lithia

Lith"i*a
(lĭth"ĭ*ȧ)
n.
[NL., from Gr. li`qos stone.]
(Chem.)
The oxide of lithium; a strong alkaline caustic similar to potash and soda, but weaker. See Lithium.

Lithia emerald. See Hiddenite.


word: Lithiasis
definition:
Lithiasis

Li*thi"a*sis
(lĭ*thī"ȧ*sĭs)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. liqi`asis, fr. li`qos stone.]
(Med.)
The formation of stony concretions or calculi in any part of the body, especially in the bladder and urinary passages.
Dunglison.


word: Lithic
definition:
Lithic

Lith"ic
(lĭth"ĭk)
a.
[Gr. liqiko`s of or belonging to stones, fr. li`qos stone: cf. F. lithique.]
1.
Of or pertaining to stone; as, lithic architecture.

2.
(Med.)
Pertaining to the formation of uric-acid concretions (stone) in the bladder and other parts of the body; as, lithic diathesis.

Lithic acid (Old Med. Chem.), uric acid. See Uric acid, under Uric.


word: Lithic₃
definition:
Lithic

Lith"ic
a.
[From Lithium.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to or denoting lithium or some of its compounds.
Frankland.


word: Lithiophilite
definition:
Lithiophilite

Lith`i*oph"i*lite
(lĭth`ĭ*&obreve_;f"ĭ*līt)
n.
[Lithium + Gr. fi`los friend.]
(Min.)
A phosphate of manganese and lithium; a variety of triphylite.


word: Lithium
definition:
Lithium

Lith"i*um
(lĭth"ĭ*ŭm)
n.
[NL., from Gr. li`qeios of stone, fr. li`qos stone.]
(Chem.)
A metallic element of the alkaline group, occurring in several minerals, as petalite, spodumene, lepidolite, triphylite, etc., and otherwise widely disseminated, though in small quantities.

&hand_; When isolated it is a soft, silver white metal, tarnishing and oxidizing very rapidly in the air. It is the lightest solid element known, specific gravity being 0.59. Symbol Li. Atomic weight 7.0 So called from having been discovered in a mineral.


word: Lithobilic
definition:
Lithobilic

Lith`o*bil"ic
(-bĭl"ĭk)
a.
[Litho + bile.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to or designating an organic acid of the tartaric acid series, distinct from lithofellic acid, but, like it, obtained from certain bile products, as bezoar stones.


word: Lithocarp
definition:
Lithocarp

Lith"o*carp
(lĭth"o̝*kärp)
n.
[Litho- + Gr. karpo`s fruit: cf. F. lithocarpe.]
(Paleon.)
Fossil fruit; a fruit petrified; a carpolite.


word: Lithochromics
definition:
Lithochromics

Lith`o*chro"mics
(-kr&omacr"mĭks)
n.
[Litho- + Gr. chrw^ma color.]
The art of printing colored pictures on canvas from oil paintings on stone.


word: Lithoclast
definition:
Lithoclast

Lith"o*clast
(lĭth"o̝*klăst)
n.
[Litho- + Gr. kla^n to break.]
(Surg.)
An instrument for crushing stones in the bladder.


word: Lithocyst
definition:
Lithocyst

Lith"o*cyst
(lĭth"o̝*sĭst)
n.
[Litho- + cyst.]
(Zool.)
A sac containing small, calcareous concretions (otoliths). They are found in many Medusæ, and other invertebrates, and are supposed to be auditory organs.


word: Lithodome
definition:
Lithodome

Lith"o*dome
(-d&omacrm)
n.
[Litho- + Gr. do`mos house: cf. F. lithodome.]
(Zool.)
Any one of several species of bivalves, which form holes in limestone, in which they live; esp., any species of the genus Lithodomus.


word: Lithodomus
definition:
Lithodomus

Li*thod"o*mus
(?)
n.
[NL. See Lithodome.]
(Zool.)
A genus of elongated bivalve shells, allied to the mussels, and remarkable for their ability to bore holes for shelter, in solid limestone, shells, etc. Called also Lithophagus.

&hand_; These holes are at first very small and shallow, but are enlarged with the growth of the shell, sometimes becoming two or three inches deep and nearly an inch diameter.


word: Lithofellic
definition:
Lithofellic

Lith"o*fel"lic
(?)
a.
[Litho- + L. fel, fellis, gall.]
(Physiol. Chem.)
Pertaining to, or designating, a crystalline, organic acid, resembling cholic acid, found in the biliary intestinal concretions (bezoar stones) common in certain species of antelope.


word: Lithofracteur
definition:
Lithofracteur

Lith`o*frac"teur
(?)
n.
[F., fr. li`qos stone + L. frangere, fractum, to break.]
An explosive compound of nitroglycerin. See Nitroglycerin.


word: Lithogenesy
definition:
Lithogenesy

Lith`o*gen"e*sy
(?)
n.
[Litho- Gr. ge`nesis origin, generation: cf. F. lithogénésie. See Genesis.]
The doctrine or science of the origin of the minerals composing the globe.


word: lithogenous
definition:
lithogenous

li*thog"e*nous
(lĭ*th&obreve_;j"e̝*nŭs)
a.
[Litho- + -genous.]
Stone-producing; -- said of polyps which form coral.


word: lithoglyph
definition:
lithoglyph

lith"o*glyph
(lĭth"o̝*glĭf)
n.
[Gr. liqoglyfi`a; li`qos stone + gly`fein to engrave.]
An engraving on a gem.


word: lithoglypher
definition:
lithoglypher

li*thog"ly*pher
(lĭ*th&obreve_;g"rȧ*fẽr)
n.
One who curs or engraves precious stones.


word: lithoglyphic
definition:
lithoglyphic

lith`o*glyph"ic
(lĭth`o̝*glĭf"ĭk)
a.
Of or pertaining to the art of cutting and engraving precious stones.


word: lithograph
definition:
lithograph

lith"o*graph
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. lithographed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. lithographing (?).]
[litho- + -graph: cf. F. lithographier.]
To trace on stone by the process of lithography so as to transfer the design to paper by printing; as, to lithograph a design; to lithograph a painting. See lithography.


word: lithographical
definition:
lithographical

lithographic

{ lith`o*graph"ic (?), lith`o*graph"ic*al (?), }
a.
[Cf. F. lithographique.]
Of or pertaining to lithography; made by lithography; as, the lithographic art; a lithographic picture.

Lithographic limestone (Min.), a compact, fine-grained limestone, obtained largely from the Lias and Oölite, esp. of Bavaria, and extensively used in lithography.


word: Lithography
definition:
Lithography

Li*thog"ra*phy
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. lithographie.]
1.
The art or process of putting designs or writing, with a greasy material, on stone, and of producing printed impressions therefrom. The process depends, in the main, upon the antipathy between grease and water, which prevents a printing ink containing oil from adhering to wetted parts of the stone not covered by the design. See Lithographic limestone, under Lithographic.

2.
a printing process for reproducing images, using any flat surface, such as a metal plate, in a manner similar to lithography{1}.

3.
The process of producing patterns on semiconductor crystals by exposing photosensitive coatings on a matrix, such as silicon, to light patterns in the form desired for the circuit, and subsequently treating (e.g., chemically) the patterns thus formed in such a way as to create integrated semiconductor circuits with the desired properties.  This is the principle method  (1990's) to create the high-density integrated circuits used in the digital computers on which you are reading this.


word: Lithoidal
definition:
Lithoidal

Lithoid

{ Lith"oid (?) Li*thoid"al (?), }
a.
[Litho- + -oid: cf. F. lithoïde.]
Like a stone; having a stony structure.


word: Lithological
definition:
Lithological

Lithologic

{ Lith`o*log"ic (?), Lith`o*log"ic*al (?), }
a.
[Cf. F. lithologique.]
1.
(Geol.)
Of or pertaining to the character of a rock, as derived from the nature and mode of aggregation of its mineral contents.

2.
Of or pertaining to lithology.


word: Lithologically
definition:
Lithologically

Lith`o*log"ic*al*ly
(?)
adv.
From a lithological point of view; as, to consider a stratum lithologically.


word: Lithology
definition:
Lithology

Li*thol"o*gy
(?)
n.
[Litho- + -logy: cf. F. lithologie.]
1.
The science which treats of rocks, as regards their mineral constitution and classification, and their mode of occurrence in nature.

2.
(Med.)
A treatise on stones found in the body.


word: Lithomancy
definition:
Lithomancy

Lith"o*man`cy
(?)
n.
[Litho- + -mancy: cf. F. lithomancie.]
Divination by means of stones.


word: Lithomarge
definition:
Lithomarge

Lith"o*marge
(?)
n.
[Litho- + L. marga marl.]
A clay of a fine smooth texture, and very sectile.


word: Lithonthryptic
definition:
Lithonthryptic

Lithonthriptic

{ Lith`on*thrip"tic, Lith`on*thryp"tic  }
(?)
a. & n.
[Litho- + Gr. _; to crush.]
Same as Lithontriptic.


word: Lithontriptic
definition:
Lithontriptic

Lith`on*trip"tic
(?)
a.
[Gr. li`qos, acc. _;, a stone + _; to rub, grind: cf. F. lithontriptique.]
(Med.)
Having the quality of, or used for, dissolving or destroying stone in the bladder or kidneys; as, lithontriptic forcéps.
n. A lithontriptic remedy or agent, as distilled water.


word: Lithophagous
definition:
Lithophagous

Li*thoph"a*gous
(?)
a.
[Litho- + Gr. _; to eat.]
(Zool.)
(a)
Eating or swallowing stones or gravel, as the ostrich.
(b)
Eating or destroying stone; -- applied to various animals which make burrows in stone, as many bivalve mollusks, certain sponges, annelids, and sea urchins. See Lithodomus.


word: Lithophane
definition:
Lithophane

Lith"o*phane
(?)
n.
[Litho- + Gr. fai`nein to show, reveal.]
Porcelain impressed with figures which are made distinct by transmitted light, as in a lamp shade or when hung in a window.
Lith`o*phan"ic (#), a. -- Li*thoph"a*ny (#), n.


word: Lithophosphor
definition:
Lithophosphor

Lith"o*phos`phor
(?)
n.
[Litho- + phosphor.]
A stone that becomes phosphoric by heat.


word: Lithophosphoric
definition:
Lithophosphoric

Lith`o*phos*phor"ic
(?)
a.
Pertaining to lithophosphor; becoming phosphoric by heat.


word: Lithophyll
definition:
Lithophyll

Lith"o*phyll
(?)
n.
[Gr. li`qos a stone + _; a leaf: cf. F. lithophylle.]
A fossil leaf or impression of a leaf.


word: Lithophyse
definition:
Lithophyse

Lith"o*physe
(?)
n.
[Litho- + Gr. _; a flatus, air bubble.]
(Min.)
A spherulitic cavity often with concentric chambers, observed in some volcanic rocks, as in rhyolitic lavas. It is supposed to be produced by expanding gas, whence the name.


word: Lithophyte
definition:
Lithophyte

Lith"o*phyte
(?)
n.
[Litho- + Gr. _; plant: cf. F. lithophyte.]
(Zool.)
A hard, or stony, plantlike organism, as the gorgonians, corals, and corallines, esp. those gorgonians having a calcareous axis. All the lithophytes except the corallines are animals.


word: Lithosian
definition:
Lithosian

Li*tho"sian
(?)
n.
[From NL. Lithosia, the typical genus, fr. Gr. li`qos a stone, a rock.]
(Zool.)
Any one of various species of moths belonging to the family Lithosidæ. Many of them are beautifully colored.


word: Lithosphere
definition:
Lithosphere

Lith"o*sphere
(?)
n.
[Litho- + sphere.]
(Phys. Geog.)
(a)
The solid earth as distinguished from its fluid envelopes, the hydrosphere and atmosphere.
(b)
The outer part of the solid earth, the portion undergoing change through the gradual transfer of material by volcanic eruption, the circulation of underground water, and the process of erosion and deposition. It is, therefore, regarded as a third mobile envelope comparable with the hydrosphere and atmosphere.


word: Lithotint
definition:
Lithotint

Lith"o*tint
(?)
n.
[Litho- + tint.]
1.
A kind of lithography by which the effect of a tinted drawing is produced, as if made with India ink.

2.
A picture produced by this process.


word: Lithotome
definition:
Lithotome

Lith"o*tome
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; cutting stones; li`qos stone + _; to cut: cf. F. lithotome.]
1.
A stone so formed by nature as to appear as if cut by art.

2.
(Surg.)
An instrument used for cutting the bladder in operations for the stone.


word: Lithotomical
definition:
Lithotomical

Lithotomic

{ Lith`o*tom"ic (?), Lith`o*tom"ic*al (?), }
a.
[Gr. li`qos stone cutting: cf. F. lithotomique.]
Pertaining to, or performed by, lithotomy.


word: Lithotomist
definition:
Lithotomist

Li*thot"o*mist
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. lithotomiste.]
One who performs the operation of cutting for stone in the bladder, or one who is skilled in the operation.


word: Lithotomy
definition:
Lithotomy

Li*thot"o*my
(?)
n.
[L. lithotomia, Gr. _;: cf. F. lithotomie.]
(Surg.)
The operation, art, or practice of cutting for stone in the bladder.


word: Lithotripsy
definition:
Lithotripsy

Lith"o*trip`sy
(lĭth"o̝*trĭp`s&ybreve_;)
n.
[Litho- + Gr. tri`bein to rub, grind: cf. F. lithotripsie.]
(Surg.)
The operation of crushing a stone in the bladder or urethra to reduce it to particles small enough to be voided; lithotrity.  It may be performed with an instrument called lithotriptor or lithotrite (also called a lithoclast); or, more recently, may be accomplished by devices using ultrasonic waves to fragment the stones.


word: Lithotriptist
definition:
Lithotriptist

Lith"o*trip`tist
(lĭth"o̝*trĭp`tĭst)
n.
One skilled in breaking and extracting stone in the bladder.


word: Lithotriptor
definition:
Lithotriptor

Lith"o*trip`tor
(lĭth"o̝*trĭp`tẽr)
n.
(Surg.)
An instrument for triturating the stone in the bladder; a lithotrite.


word: Lithotritor
definition:
Lithotritor

Lithotrite

{ Lith"o*trite (?), Lith"o*tri"tor (?), }
[See Lithotrity.]
(Surg.)
A lithotriptor.


word: Lithotrity
definition:
Lithotrity

Li*thot"ri*ty
(?)
n.
[Litho- + L. terere, tritum, to rub, grind.]
(Surg.)
The operation of breaking a stone in the bladder or urethrea into small pieces capable of being voided; lithotripsy.


word: Lithotype
definition:
Lithotype

Lith"o*type
(?)
n.
1.
An etched stone surface for printing, having the design in relief; also, the process of printing from such a surface, or that which is printed from it.

2.
A machine, with a keyboard like that of a typewriter, for making a lithographic transfer sheet. It produces a perforated strip of paper which controls the printing.


word: Lithotype₂
definition:
Lithotype

Lith"o*type
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Lithotyped (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Lithotyping (?).]
To prepare for printing with plates made by the process of lithotypy. See Lithotypy.


word: Lithotypy
definition:
Lithotypy

Li*thot"y*py
(?)
n.
[Litho- + -typy.]
The art or process of making a kind of hard, stereotype plate, by pressing into a mold, taken from a page of type or other matter, a composition of gum shellac and sand of a fine quality, together with a little tar and linseed oil, all in a heated state.


word: Lithoxyl
definition:
Lithoxyl

Li*thox`yl
(?)
n.
[Written also lithoxyle.]
[Litho- + Gr. _; wood: cf. F. lithoxyle.]
Petrified wood.
[Obs.]


word: Lithuanian
definition:
Lithuanian

Lith`u*a"ni*an
(?)
a.
Of or pertaining to Lithuania (formerly a principality united with Poland, then part of the Soviet Union, but since 1992 an independent nation).


word: Lithuanian₂
definition:
Lithuanian

Lith`u*a"ni*an
n.
A native, or one of the people, of Lithuania; also, the language of the Lithuanian people.


word: Lithy
definition:
Lithy

Lith"y
(?)
a.
[See Lithe.]
Easily bent; pliable.

Lithy tree (Bot.), a European shrub (Viburnum Lantana); -- so named from its tough and flexible stem.


word: Litigant
definition:
Litigant

Lit"i*gant
(?)
a.
[L. litigans, -antis, p. pr. of litigare: cf. F. litigant. See Litigate.]
Disposed to litigate; contending in law; engaged in a lawsuit; as, the parties litigant.
Ayliffe.


word: Litigate
definition:
Litigate

Lit"i*gate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Litigated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Litigating.]
[See Litigation.]
To make the subject of a lawsuit; to contest in law; to prosecute or defend by pleadings, exhibition of evidence, and judicial debate in a court; as, to litigate a cause.


word: Litigation
definition:
Litigation

Lit`i*ga"tion
(?)
n.
[L. litigatio, fr. litigare to dispute, litigate; lis, litis, dispute, lawsuit (OL. stlis) + agere to carry on. See Agent.]
The act or process of litigating; a suit at law; a judicial contest.


word: litigatious
definition:
litigatious

litigatious
adj.
1.
of or pertaining to litigation.

Syn. -- litiginous.

2.
prone to initiate litigation.

Syn. -- litiginous.

3.
same as contentious.

Syn. -- litigatious, litiginous, contentious, disputatious; quarrelsome; argumentative.


word: Litigious
definition:
Litigious

Li*ti"gious
(?)
a.
[L. litigiosus, fr. litigium dispute, quarrel, fr. litigare: cf. F. litigieux. See Litigation.]
1.
Inclined to initiate lawsuits; given to the practice of contending in law; fond of litigation.
litigious
Macaulay.

Soldiers find wars, and lawyers find out still
Litigious men, who quarrels move.
Donne.

2.
Hence:
Quarrelsome; contentious; argumentative.

3.
Subject to contention; disputable; controvertible; debatable; doubtful; precarious.
Shak.

No fences, parted fields, nor marks, nor bounds,
Distinguished acres of litigious grounds.
Dryden.

4.
Of or pertaining to legal disputes.

Nor brothers cite to the litigious bar.
Young.


word: Litigiousness
definition:
Litigiousness

Li*ti"gious*ness
n.
The state of being litigious; disposition to engage in or carry on lawsuits.


word: Litmus
definition:
Litmus

Lit"mus
(?)
n.
[D. lakmoes; lak lacker + moes a thick preparation of fruit, pap, prob. akin to E. meat: cf. G. lackmus. See Lac a resinous substance.]
(Chem.)
A dyestuff extracted from certain lichens (Roccella tinctoria, Lecanora tartarea, etc.), as a blue amorphous mass which consists of a compound of the alkaline carbonates with certain coloring matters related to orcin and orcein.

&hand_; Litmus is used as a dye, and being turned red by acids and restored to its blue color by alkalies, is a common indicator or test for acidity and alkalinity.

Litmus paper (Chem.), unsized paper saturated with blue or red litmus, -- used in testing for acids or alkalies.


word: litmus test
definition:
litmus test

litmus test
1.
(Chem.)
A test to determine acidity or alkalinity, using litmus as an inddicator.

2.
Hence:
(Fig.)
A test for a single factor, which has only two outcomes, positive or negative;
specifically:
(Politics)
the question of whether a candidate for office is for or against a particular position on an issue; -- used, e.g. by voters concerned predominantly with a single issue, to decide whether to vote for or against a candidate; as, many voters take a candidate's position on abortion as their litmus test.


word: Litocranius
definition:
Litocranius

Litocranius
n.
A genus of East African antelopes including the gerenuks.

Syn. -- genus Litocranius.


word: Litotes
definition:
Litotes

Li"to*tes
(lī"to̝*tēz)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. lito`ths, from lito`s plain, simple.]
(Rhet.)
A diminution or softening of statement for the sake of avoiding censure or increasing the effect by contrast with the moderation shown in the form of expression; a form of understatement; as, “ a citizen of no mean city,” that is, of an illustrious city; or, “not bad”, meaning “good”.


word: Litraneter
definition:
Litraneter

Li*tran"e*ter
(?)
n.
[Gr. li`tra + -meter. See Liter]
An instrument for ascertaining the specific gravity of liquids.


word: Litter
definition:
Litter

Lit"ter
(lĭt"tẽr)
n.
[F. litière, LL. lectaria, fr. L. lectus couch, bed. See Lie to be prostrated, and cf. Coverlet.]
1.
A bed or stretcher so arranged that a person, esp. a sick or wounded person, may be easily carried in or upon it.

There is a litter ready; lay him in 't.
Shak.

2.
Straw, hay, etc., scattered on a floor, as bedding for animals to rest on; also, a covering of straw for plants.

To crouch in litter of your stable planks.
Shak.

Take off the litter from your kernel beds.
Evelyn.

3.
Things lying scattered about in a manner indicating slovenliness; scattered rubbish.

Strephon, who found the room was void.
Stole in, and took a strict survey
Of all the litter as it lay.
Swift.

4.
Disorder or untidiness resulting from scattered rubbish, or from thongs lying about uncared for; as, a room in a state of litter.

5.
The young brought forth at one time, by a cat, dog, sow or other multiparous animal, taken collectively. Also Fig.

A wolf came to a sow, and very kindly offered to take care of her litter.
D. Estrange.

Reflect upon that numerous litter of strange, senseless opinions that crawl about the world.
South.


word: Litter₂
definition:
Litter

Lit"ter
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Littered (lĭt"tẽrd); p. pr. & vb. n. Littering.]
1.
To supply with litter, as cattle; to cover with litter, as the floor of a stall.

Tell them how they litter their jades.
Bp. Hackett.

For his ease, well littered was the floor.
Dryden.

2.
To put into a confused or disordered condition; to strew with scattered articles; as, to litter a room.

The room with volumes littered round.
Swift.

3.
To give birth to; to bear; -- said of brutes, esp. those which produce more than one at a birth, and also of human beings, in abhorrence or contempt.

We might conceive that dogs were created blind, because we observe they were littered so with us.
Sir T. Browne.

The son that she did litter here,
A freckled whelp hagborn.
Shak.


word: Litter₃
definition:
Litter

Lit"ter
(lĭt"tẽr)
v. i.
1.
To be supplied with litter as bedding; to sleep or make one's bed in litter.
[R.]

The inn
Where he and his horse littered.
Habington.

2.
To produce a litter.

A desert . . . where the she-wolf still littered.
Macaulay.


word: Litterateur
definition:
Litterateur

Lit`te`ra`teur"
(le̝`ta̝`rȧ`tẽr")
n.
[F.]
One who occupies himself with literature; a literary man; a literatus.
littérateur
C. Kingsley.


word: litterbin
definition:
litterbin

lit"ter*bin`
(lĭt"tẽr*bĭn`)
n.
a bin (usually in or outside a public building) into which the public can put rubbish.

Syn. -- litterbasket.


word: litterbug
definition:
litterbug

lit"ter*bug`
(lĭt"tẽr*bŭg)
n.
a person who litters public places with refuse.

Syn. -- litterer, litter lout.


word: littered
definition:
littered

lit"tered
(lĭt"tẽrd)
adj.
having articles scattered about in a disorderly fashion.

Syn. -- cluttered, messy, mussy, untidy.


word: litterer
definition:
litterer

lit"ter*er
(lĭt"tẽr*ẽr)
n.
1.
a person who litters public places with refuse.

Syn. -- litterbug, litter lout.


word: Little
definition:
Little

Lit"tle
(lĭt"t'l)
a.
[The regular comparative and superlative of this word, littler and littlest, are often used as comparatives of the sense small; but in the sense few, less, or, rarely, lesser is the proper comparative and least is the superlative. See Lesser. The regular form, littlest, occurs also in some of the English provinces, and occasionally in colloquial language. “ Where love is great, the littlest doubts are fear.” Shak.]
[OE. litel, lutel, AS. l&ymacr_;tel, lītel, l&ymacr_;t; akin to OS. littil, D. luttel, LG. lütt, OHG. luzzil, MHG. lützel; and perh. to AS. lytig deceitful, lot deceit, Goth. liuts deceitful, lut&omacrn to deceive; cf. also Icel. lītill little, Sw. liten, Dan. liden, lille, Goth. leitils, which appear to have a different root vowel.]
1.
Small in size or extent; not big; diminutive; -- opposed to big or large; as, a little body; a little animal; a little piece of ground; a little hill; a little distance; a little child.

He sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature.
Luke xix. 3.

2.
Short in duration; brief; as, a little sleep.

Best him enough: after a little time,
I'll beat him too.
Shak.

3.
Small in quantity or amount; not much; as, a little food; a little air or water.

Conceited of their little wisdoms, and doting upon their own fancies.
Barrow.

4.
Small in dignity, power, or importance; not great; insignificant; contemptible.

When thou wast little in thine own sight, wast thou not made the head of the tribes?
I Sam. xv. 17.

5.
Small in force or efficiency; not strong; weak; slight; inconsiderable; as, little attention or exertion;little effort; little care or diligence.

By sad experiment I know
How little weight my words with thee can find.
Milton.

6.
Small in extent of views or sympathies; narrow; shallow; contracted; mean; illiberal; ungenerous.

The long-necked geese of the world that are ever hissing dispraise,
Because their natures are little.
Tennyson.

Little chief. (Zool.) See Chief hare. -- Little Englander, an Englishman opposed to territorial expansion of the British Empire. See Antiimperialism, above. Hence: Little Englandism. -- Little finger, the fourth and smallest finger of the hand. -- Little go (Eng. Universities), a public examination about the middle of the course, which is less strict and important than the final one; -- called also smalls.  Cf. Great go, under Great. Thackeray. -- Little hours (R. C. Ch.), the offices of prime, tierce, sext, and nones. Vespers and compline are sometimes included. -- Little-neck clam, or Little neck (Zool.), the quahog, or round clam. -- Little ones, young children.

The men, and the women, and the little ones.
Deut. ii. 34.


word: Little₂
definition:
Little

Lit"tle
n.
1.
That which is little; a small quantity, amount, space, or the like.

Much was in little writ.
Dryden.

There are many expressions, which carrying with them no clear ideas, are like to remove but little of my ignorance.
Locke.

2.
A small degree or scale; miniature.
little
Shak.

A little, to or in a small degree; to a limited extent; somewhat; for a short time. “ Stay a little.”
Shak.

The painter flattered her a little.
Shak.


word: Little₃
definition:
Little

Lit"tle
adv.
In a small quantity or degree; not much; slightly; somewhat; -- often with a preceding it.
little
Otway.


word: Little-ease
definition:
Little-ease

Lit"tle-ease`
(?)
n.
An old slang name for the pillory, stocks, etc., of a prison.
[Eng.]
Latimer.


word: littleneck
definition:
littleneck

littleneck
n.
1.
a quahog when young and small; frequently eaten raw.

Syn. -- littleneck clam.

2.
a young quahog suitable to be eaten raw.

Syn. -- littleneck clam.


word: Littleness
definition:
Littleness

Lit"tle*ness
n.
The state or quality of being little; as, littleness of size, thought, duration, power, etc.


word: littler
definition:
littler

littler
adj.
[compar. of little.]
small or little relative to something else.

Syn. -- smaller.


word: littlest
definition:
littlest

littlest
adj.
[superl. of little.]
having or being distinguished by diminutive size.

Syn. -- least, smallest.


word: Littoral
definition:
Littoral

Lit"to*ral
(?)
a.
[L. littoralis, litoralis, from littus, litus, the seashore: cf. F. littoral.]
1.
Of or pertaining to a shore, as of the sea.

2.
(Biol.)
Inhabiting the seashore, esp. the zone between high-water and low-water mark.


word: Littorina
definition:
Littorina

Lit"to*ri"na
(?)
n.
[NL. See Littoral.]
(Zool.)
A genus of small pectinibranch mollusks, having thick spiral shells, abundant between tides on nearly all rocky seacoasts. They feed on seaweeds. The common periwinkle is a well-known example. See Periwinkle.


word: Lituate
definition:
Lituate

Lit"u*ate
(lĭt"u*a̝t; 135)
a.
[See Lituus.]
(Bot.)
Forked, with the points slightly curved outward.


word: Lituite
definition:
Lituite

Lit"u*ite
(lĭt"u*i̝t; 135)
n.
[See Lituus.]
(Paleon.)
Any species of ammonites of the genus Lituites. They are found in the Cretaceous formation.


word: Liturate
definition:
Liturate

Lit"u*rate
(lĭt"u*ra̝t)
a.
[L. lituratus, p. p. of liturare to erase, fr. litura a blur.]
1.
(Zool.)
Having indistinct spots, paler at their margins.

2.
(Bot.)
Spotted, as if from abrasions of the surface.


word: Liturgical
definition:
Liturgical

Liturgic

{ Li*tur"gic (?), Li*tur"gic*al (?), }
[Gr. _;: cf. F. liturgique.]
Pertaining to, of or the nature of, a liturgy; of or pertaining to public prayer and worship.
T. Warton.


word: Liturgics
definition:
Liturgics

Li*tur"gics
(?)
n.
The science of worship; history, doctrine, and interpretation of liturgies.


word: Liturgiology
definition:
Liturgiology

Li*tur`gi*ol"o*gy
(?)
n.
[Liturgy + -logy.]
The science treating of liturgical matters; a treatise on, or description of, liturgies.
Shipley.


word: Liturgy
definition:
Liturgy

Lit"ur*gy
(lĭt"ŭr*j&ybreve_;)
n.
pl. Liturgies (lĭt"ŭr*jĭz).
[F. liturgie, LL. liturgia, Gr. leitoyrgi`a a public service, the public service of God, public worship; (assumed) le`i:tos, lei^tos, belonging to the people, public (fr. lao`s, lew`s, the people) + the root of 'e`rgon work. See Lay, a., and Work.]
An established formula for public worship, or the entire ritual for public worship in a church which uses prescribed forms; a formulary for public prayer or devotion. In the Roman Catholic Church it includes all forms and services in any language, in any part of the world, for the celebration of Mass.


word: Lituus
definition:
Lituus

Lit"u*us
(?)
n.
pl. Litui (#).
[L.]
1.
(Rom. Antig.)
(a)
A curved staff used by the augurs in quartering the heavens.
(b)
An instrument of martial music; a kind of trumpet of a somewhat curved form and shrill note.

2.
(Math.)
A spiral whose polar equation is r2θ = a; that is, a curve the square of whose radius vector varies inversely as the angle which the radius vector makes with a given line.


word: Livable
definition:
Livable

Liv"a*ble
(?)
a.
1.
Such as can be lived.

2.
Such as is pleasant to live in; fit or suitable to live in.
[Colloq.]

A more delightful or livable region is not easily to be found.
T. Arnold.


word: Live
definition:
Live

Live
(lĭv)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Lived (lĭvd); p. pr. & vb. n. Living.]
[OE. liven, livien, AS. libban, lifian; akin to OS. libbian, D. leven, G. leben, OHG. lebēn, Dan. leve, Sw. lefva, Icel. lifa to live, to be left, to remain, Goth. liban to live; akin to E. leave to forsake, and life, Gr. liparei^n to persist, liparo`s oily, shining, sleek, li`pos fat, lard, Skr. lip to anoint, smear; -- the first sense prob. was, to cleave to, stick to; hence, to remain, stay; and hence, to live.]
1.
To be alive; to have life; to have, as an animal or a plant, the capacity of assimilating matter as food, and to be dependent on such assimilation for a continuance of existence; as, animals and plants that live to a great age are long in reaching maturity.

Thus saith the Lord God unto these bones; Behold, I will . . . lay sinews upon you, and will bring up flesh upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and ye shall live.
Ezek. xxxvii. 5, 6.

2.
To pass one's time; to pass life or time in a certain manner, as to habits, conduct, or circumstances; as, to live in ease or affluence; to live happily or usefully.

O death, how bitter is the remembrance of thee to a man that liveth at rest in his possessions!
Ecclus. xli. 1. 

3.
To make one's abiding place or home; to abide; to dwell; to reside; as, to live in a cottage by the sea.

Jacob lived in the land of Egypt seventeen years.
Gen. xlvii. 28.

4.
To be or continue in existence; to exist; to remain; to be permanent; to last; -- said of inanimate objects, ideas, etc.

Men's evil manners live in brass; their virtues
We write in water.
Shak.

5.
To enjoy or make the most of life; to be in a state of happiness; as, people want not just to exist, but to live.

What greater curse could envious fortune give
Than just to die when I began to live?
Dryden.

6.
To feed; to subsist; to be nourished or supported; -- with on; as, horses live on grass and grain.

7.
To have a spiritual existence; to be quickened, nourished, and actuated by divine influence or faith.

The just shall live by faith.
Gal. iii. ll.

8.
To be maintained in life; to acquire a livelihood; to subsist; -- with on or by; as, to live on spoils.

Those who live by labor.
Sir W. Temple.

9.
To outlast danger; to float; -- said of a ship, boat, etc.; as, no ship could live in such a storm.

A strong mast that lived upon the sea.
Shak.

To live out, to be at service; to live away from home as a servant. [U. S.] -- To live with. (a) To dwell or to be a lodger with. (b) To cohabit with; to have intercourse with, as male with female.


word: Live₂
definition:
Live

Live
(lĭv)
v. t.
1.
To spend, as one's life; to pass; to maintain; to continue in, constantly or habitually; as, to live an idle or a useful life.

2.
To act habitually in conformity with; to practice.

To live the Gospel.
Foxe.

To live down, to live so as to subdue or refute; as, to live down slander.


word: Live₃
definition:
Live

Live
(līv)
a.
[Abbreviated from alive. See Alive, Life.]
1.
Having life; alive; living; not dead.

If one man's ox hurt another's, that he die; then they shall sell the live ox, and divide the money of it.
Ex. xxi. 35.

2.
Being in a state of ignition; burning; having active properties; as, a live coal; live embers.
live
Thomson.

3.
Full of earnestness; active; wide awake; glowing; as, a live man, or orator.

4.
Vivid; bright.
live
Thomson.

5.
(Engin.)
Imparting power; having motion; as, the live spindle of a lathe; live steam.

6.
(Elec.)
Connected to a voltage source; as, a live wire.

7.
(Broadcasting)
Being transmitted instantaneously, as events occur, in contrast to recorded.

8.
(Sport)
Still in active play; -- of a ball being used in a game; as, a live ball.

9.
Pertaining to an entertainment event which was performed (and possibly recorded) in front of an audience; contrasted to performances recorded in a studio without an audience.

Live birth, the condition of being born in such a state that acts of life are manifested after the extrusion of the whole body. Dunglison. -- Live box, a cell for holding living objects under microscopical examination. P. H. Gosse. -- Live feathers, feathers which have been plucked from the living bird, and are therefore stronger and more elastic. -- Live gang. (Sawing) See under Gang. -- Live grass (Bot.), a grass of the genus Eragrostis. -- Live load (Engin.), a suddenly applied load; a varying load; a moving load; as a moving train of cars on a bridge, or wind pressure on a roof. Live oak (Bot.), a species of oak (Quercus virens), growing in the Southern States, of great durability, and highly esteemed for ship timber. In California the Quercus chrysolepis and some other species are also called live oaks. -- Live ring (Engin.), a circular train of rollers upon which a swing bridge, or turntable, rests, and which travels around a circular track when the bridge or table turns. -- Live steam , steam direct from the boiler, used for any purpose, in distinction from exhaust steam. -- Live stock, horses, cattle, and other domestic animals kept on a farm.  whole body. -- live wire (a) (Elec.) a wire connected to a power source, having a voltage potential; -- used esp. of a power line with a high potential relative to ground, capable of harming a person who touches it. (b) (Fig.) a person who is unusually active, alert, or aggressive.


word: live-bearer
definition:
live-bearer

live-bearer
n.
Any fish of the family Poeciliiidae, small usually brightly-colored viviparous surface-feeding fishes of fresh or brackish warm waters, often used in mosquito control.

Syn. -- topminnow, poeciliid fish, poeciliid.


word: lived-in
definition:
lived-in

lived-in
adj.
having residents; as, a house with a lived-in look.

Syn. -- inhabited, tenanted.


word: Live-forever
definition:
Live-forever

Live"-for*ev`er
(?)
n.
(Bot.)
A plant (Sedum Telephium) with fleshy leaves, which has extreme powers of resisting drought; garden ox-pine.


word: Livelihood
definition:
Livelihood

Live"li*hood
(?)
n.
[OE. livelode, liflode, prop., course of life, life's support, maintenance, fr. AS. līf life + lād road, way, maintenance. Confused with livelihood liveliness. See Life, and Lode.]
Subsistence or living, as dependent on some means of support; the means for support of life; maintenance.

The opportunities of gaining an honest livelihood.
Addison.

It is their profession and livelihood to get their living by practices for which they deserve to forfeit their lives.
South.


word: Liveliness
definition:
Liveliness

Live"li*ness
n.
[From Lively.]
1.
The quality or state of being lively or animated; sprightliness; vivacity; animation; spirit; as, the liveliness of youth, contrasted with the gravity of age.
B. Jonson.

2.
An appearance of life, animation, or spirit; as, the liveliness of the eye or the countenance in a portrait.

3.
Briskness; activity; effervescence, as of liquors.


word: Livelode
definition:
Livelode

Live"lode`
(?)
n.
[See 1st Livelihood.]
Course of life; means of support; livelihood.
[Obs.]


word: Livelong
definition:
Livelong

Live"long`
(?)
a.
[For lifelong.  Cf. Lifelong.]
1.
Whole; entire; long in passing; -- used of time, as day or night, in adverbial phrases, and usually with a sense of tediousness.

The obscure bird
Clamored the livelong night.
Shak.

How could she sit the livelong day,
Yet never ask us once to play?
Swift.

2.
Lasting; durable.
[Obs.]

Thou hast built thyself a livelong monument.
Milton.


word: Lively
definition:
Lively

Live"ly
(?)
a.
[Compar. Livelier (?); superl. Liveliest.]
[For lifely.  Cf. Lifelike.]
1.
Endowed with or manifesting life; living.

Chaplets of gold and silver resembling lively flowers and leaves.
Holland.

2.
Brisk; vivacious; active; as, a lively youth.

But wherefore comes old Manoa in such haste,
With youthful steps ? Much livelier than erewhile
He seems.
Milton.

3.
Gay; airy; animated; spirited.

From grave to gay, from lively to severe.
Pope.

4.
Representing life; lifelike.
[Obs.]

I spied the lively picture of my father.
Massinger.

5.
Bright; vivid; glowing; strong; vigorous.

The colors of the prism are manifestly more full, intense, and lively that those of natural bodies.
Sir I. Newton.

His faith must be not only living, but lively too.
South.

Lively stones (Script.), saints, as being quickened by the Spirit, and active in holiness.


word: Lively₂
definition:
Lively

Live"ly
adv.
1.
In a brisk, active, or animated manner; briskly; vigorously.
Hayward.

2.
With strong resemblance of life.
[Obs.]

Thou counterfeitest most lively.
Shak.


word: liven
definition:
liven

liven
v. t.
to make lively; -- sometimes used with up; as, to liven up the party with some music.

Syn. -- enliven, liven up, make lively, invigorate, animate.


word: liveness
definition:
liveness

liveness
n.
The quality of having animal life as distinguished from plant life.

Syn. -- animateness, aliveness.


word: Liver
definition:
Liver

Liv"er
(?)
n.
1.
One who, or that which, lives.

And try if life be worth the liver's care.
Prior.

2.
A resident; a dweller; as, a liver in Brooklyn.

3.
One whose course of life has some marked characteristic (expressed by an adjective); as, a free liver.

Fast liver, one who lives in an extravagant and dissipated way. -- Free liver, Good liver, one given to the pleasures of the table. -- Loose liver, a person who lives a somewhat dissolute life.


word: Liver₂
definition:
Liver

Liv"er
n.
[AS. lifer; akin to D. liver, G. leber, OHG. lebara, Icel. lifr, Sw. lefver, and perh. to Gr. _; fat, E. live, v.]
(Anat.)
A very large glandular and vascular organ in the visceral cavity of all vertebrates.

&hand_; Most of the venous blood from the alimentary canal passes through it on its way back to the heart; and it secretes the bile, produces glycogen, and in other ways changes the blood which passes through it. In man it is situated immediately beneath the diaphragm and mainly on the right side. See Bile, Digestive, and Glycogen.  The liver of invertebrate animals is usually made up of cæcal tubes, and differs materially, in form and function, from that of vertebrates.

Floating liver. See Wandering liver, under Wandering. -- Liver of antimony, Liver of sulphur. (Old Chem.) See Hepar. -- Liver brown, Liver color, the color of liver, a dark, reddish brown. -- Liver shark (Zool.), a very large shark (Cetorhinus maximus), inhabiting the northern coasts both of Europe and North America. It sometimes becomes forty feet in length, being one of the largest sharks known; but it has small simple teeth, and is not dangerous. It is captured for the sake of its liver, which often yields several barrels of oil. It has gill rakers, resembling whalebone, by means of which it separates small animals from the sea water.  Called also basking shark, bone shark, hoemother, homer, and sailfish; it is sometimes referred to as whale shark, but that name is more commonly used for the Rhincodon typus, which grows even larger. -- Liver spots, yellowish brown patches on the skin, or spots of chloasma.


word: Liver₃
definition:
Liver

Liv"er
(lĭv"ẽr)
n.
(Zool.)
The glossy ibis (Ibis falcinellus); -- said to have given its name to the city of Liverpool.


word: Liverpudlian
definition:
Liverpudlian

Liverpudlian
adj.
1.
of or pertaining to the inhabitants of Liverpool; as, Liverpudlian street urchins.

2.
of or pertaining to Liverpool; as, Liverpudlian streets.


word: Liverwort
definition:
Liverwort

Liv"er*wort`
(?)
n.
(Bot.)
1.
A ranunculaceous plant (Anemone Hepatica) with pretty white or bluish flowers and a three-lobed leaf; -- called also squirrel cups.

2.
A flowerless plant (Marchantia polymorpha), having an irregularly lobed, spreading, and forking frond.

&hand_; From this plant many others of the same order (Hepaticæ) have been vaguely called liverworts, esp. those of the tribe Marchantiaceæ. See Illust. of Hepatica.


word: Livery
definition:
Livery

Liv"er*y
(?)
n.
pl. Liveries (#).
[OE. livere, F. livrée, formerly, a gift of clothes made by the master to his servants, prop., a thing delivered, fr. livrer to deliver, L. liberare to set free, in LL., to deliver up. See Liberate.]
1.
(Eng. Law)
(a)
The act of delivering possession of lands or tenements.
(b)
The writ by which possession is obtained.

&hand_; It is usual to say, livery of seizin, which is a feudal investiture, made by the delivery of a turf, of a rod, a twig, or a key from the feoffor to the feoffee as a symbol of delivery of the whole property.  There was a distinction of livery in deed when this ceremony was performed on the property being transferred, and livery in law when performed in sight of the property, but not on it.  In the United States, and now in Great Britain, no such ceremony is necessary, the delivery of a deed being sufficient as a livery of seizin, regardless of where performed.
Black's 4th Ed.

2.
Release from wardship; deliverance.

It concerned them first to sue out their livery from the unjust wardship of his encroaching prerogative.
Milton.

3.
That which is delivered out statedly or formally, as clothing, food, etc.
(a)
The uniform clothing issued by feudal superiors to their retainers and serving as a badge when in military service.
(b)
The peculiar dress by which the servants of a nobleman or gentleman are distinguished; as, a claret-colored livery.
(c)
Hence, also, the peculiar dress or garb appropriated by any association or body of persons to their own use; as, the livery of the London tradesmen, of a priest, of a charity school, etc.; also, the whole body or company of persons wearing such a garb, and entitled to the privileges of the association; as, the whole livery of London.

A Haberdasher and a Carpenter,
A Webbe, a Dyer, and a Tapicer,
And they were clothed all in one livery
Of a solempne and a gret fraternite.
Chaucer.

From the periodical deliveries of these characteristic articles of servile costume (blue coats) came our word livery.
De Quincey.
Now came still evening on, and twilight gray
Had in her sober livery all things clad.
Milton.
The emperor's officers every night went through the town from house to house whereat any English gentleman did repast or lodge, and served their liveries for all night: first, the officers brought into the house a cast of fine manchet [white bread], and of silver two great pots, and white wine, and sugar.
Cavendish.
What livery is, we by common use in England know well enough, namely, that is, allowance of horse meat, as to keep horses at livery, the which word, I guess, is derived of livering or delivering forth their nightly food.
Spenser.

It need hardly be observed that the explanation of livery which Spenser offers is perfectly correct, but . . . it is no longer applied to the ration or stated portion of food delivered at stated periods.
Trench.
Pegasus does not stand at livery even at the largest establishment in Moorfields.
Lowell.

4.
A low grade of wool.

Livery gown, the gown worn by a liveryman in London.


word: Liveryman
definition:
Liveryman

Liv"er*y*man
(?)
n.
pl. Liverymen (_;).
1.
One who wears a livery, as a servant.

2.
A freeman of the city, in London, who, having paid certain fees, is entitled to wear the distinguishing dress or livery of the company, guild, or district to which he belongs, and also to enjoy certain other privileges, as the right of voting in an election for the lord mayor, sheriffs, chamberlain, etc.

3.
One who keeps a livery stable.


word: Livery stable
definition:
Livery stable

Liv"er*y sta`ble
(?)
n.
A stable where horses are kept for hire, and where stabling is provided. See Livery, n., 3 (e) (f) & (g).


word: Lives₂
definition:
Lives

Lives
(līvz)
a. & adv.
[Orig. a genitive sing. of life.]
Alive; living; with life.
[Obs.]
lives
Chaucer.


word: Livid
definition:
Livid

Liv"id
(lĭv"ĭd)
a.
[L. lividus, from livere to be of a blush color, to be black and blue: cf. F. livide.]
1.
Black and blue; grayish blue; of a lead color; discolored, as flesh may be from a contusion.
Cowper.

There followed no carbuncles, no purple or livid spots, the mass of the blood not being tainted.
Bacon.

2.
Extremely angry; enraged; infuriated.

3.
Pallid; ashen; -- of the skin.


word: Living
definition:
Living

Liv"ing
(lĭv"ĭng)
a.
[From Live, v. i.]
1.
Being alive; having life; as, a living creature.  Opposed to dead.

2.
Active; lively; vigorous; -- said esp. of states of the mind, and sometimes of abstract things; as, a living faith; a living principle.
Living
Wyclif.

3.
Issuing continually from the earth; running; flowing; as, a living spring; -- opposed to stagnant.

4.
Producing life, action, animation, or vigor; quickening.
Living
Shak.

5.
Ignited; glowing with heat; burning; live.

Then on the living coals wine they pour.
Dryden.

Living force. See Vis viva, under Vis. -- Living gale (Naut.), a heavy gale. -- Living rock or Living stone, rock in its native or original state or location; rock not quarried. “ I now found myself on a rude and narrow stairway, the steps of which were cut out of the living rock.” Moore. -- The living, those who are alive, or one who is alive.


word: Living₂
definition:
Living

Liv"ing
n.
1.
The state of one who, or that which, lives; lives; life; existence.
living
Shak.

2.
Manner of life; as, riotous living; penurious living; earnest living.
living
Chaucer.

3.
Means of subsistence; sustenance; estate; as, to make a comfortable living from writing.

She can spin for her living.
Shak.

He divided unto them his living.
Luke xv. 12.

4.
Power of continuing life; the act of living, or living comfortably.

There is no living without trusting somebody or other in some cases.
L' Estrange.

5.
The benefice of a clergyman; an ecclesiastical charge which a minister receives.
[Eng.]

He could not get a deanery, a prebend, or even a living
Macaulay.


word: Livingness
definition:
Livingness

Liv"ing*ness
n.
The state or quality of being alive; possession of energy or vigor; animation; quickening.


word: Living picture
definition:
Living picture

Liv"ing pic"ture
A tableau in which persons take part; also, specif., such a tableau as imitating a work of art.


word: living room
definition:
living room

liv"ing room`
A room in a house used by all or most of the family, where the family entertain guests or relax together for leisure activities.  It usually contains at least one couch, and does not contain a dining table.


word: living wage
definition:
living wage

liv"ing wage"
A wage or salary that permits a worker to live at least with minimal customary amenities, and above conditions of poverty.


word: living will
definition:
living will

liv"ing will
A document signed by an individual expressing his/her desire that, in the event of an illness from which there is no reasonable expectation of recovery, aggressive or extraordinary measures to prolong life, such as resuscitation and life-support equipment, should not be used.


word: Livistona
definition:
Livistona

Livistona
n.
A genus of fan palms of Asia and Australia and Malaysia.

Syn. -- genus Livistona.


word: Livonian
definition:
Livonian

Li*vo"ni*an
(?)
a.
Of or pertaining to Livonia, a district on the Baltic Sea formerly part of Russia, now part of Latvia and Estonia.


word: Livonian₂
definition:
Livonian

Li*vo"ni*an
n.
A native or an inhabitant of Livonia; the language (allied to the Finnish) of the Livonians.


word: Livraison
definition:
Livraison

Li`vrai`son"
(?)
n.
[F., fr. L. liberatio a setting free, in LL., a delivering up. See Liberation.]
A part of a book or literary composition printed and delivered by itself; a number; a part.


word: Livre
definition:
Livre

Li"vre
(?)
n.
[F., fr. L. libra a pound of twelve ounces.  Cf. Lira.]
A French money of account, afterward a silver coin equal to 20 sous. It is not now in use, having been superseded by the franc.


word: Lixivial
definition:
Lixivial

Lix*iv"i*al
(?)
a.
[L. lixivius, fr. lix ashes, lye ashes, lye: cf. F. lixiviel.]
1.
Impregnated with, or consisting of, alkaline salts extracted from wood ashes; impregnated with a salt or salts like a lixivium.
Boyle.

2.
Of the color of lye; resembling lye.

3.
Having the qualities of alkaline salts extracted from wood ashes.

Lixivial salts (Old Chem.), salts which are obtained by passing water through ashes, or by pouring it on them.


word: Lixivited
definition:
Lixivited

Lixiviate

{ Lix*iv"i*ate (?), Lix*iv"i*`ted (?), }
a.
[From Lixivium.]
1.
Of or pertaining to lye or lixivium; of the quality of alkaline salts.

2.
Impregnated with salts from wood ashes.
Boyle.


word: Lixiviate
definition:
Lixiviate

Lix*iv"i*ate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Lixiviated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Lixiviating (?).]
To subject to a washing process for the purpose of separating soluble material from that which is insoluble; to leach, as ashes, for the purpose of extracting the alkaline substances.


word: Lixiviation
definition:
Lixiviation

Lix*iv`i*a"tion
(?)
n.
[Cf. F.  lixiviation.]
Lixiviating; the process of separating a soluble substance from one that is insoluble, by washing with some solvent, as water; leaching.


word: Lixivium
definition:
Lixivium

Lix*iv"i*um
(?)
n.
[L. lixivium, lixivia. See Lixivial.]
A solution of alkaline salts extracted from wood ashes; hence, any solution obtained by lixiviation.


word: Lixt
definition:
Lixt

Lixt
(lĭkst)
obs.
2d pers. sing. pres. of Lige, to lie, to tell lies, -- contracted for ligest.
Chaucer.


word: Lizard
definition:
Lizard

Liz"ard
(?)
n.
[OE. lesarde, OF. lesarde, F. lézard, L. lacerta, lacertus.  Cf. Alligator, Lacerta.]

1.
(Zool.)
Any one of the numerous species of reptiles belonging to the order Lacertilia; sometimes, also applied to reptiles of other orders, as the Hatteria.

&hand_; Most lizards have an elongated body, with four legs, and a long tail; but there are some without legs, and some with a short, thick tail. Most have scales, but some are naked; most have eyelids, but some do not. The tongue is varied in form and structure. In some it is forked, in others, as the chameleons, club-shaped, and very extensible. See Amphisbæna, Chameleon, Gecko, Gila monster, Horned toad, Iguana, and Dragon, 6.

2.
(Naut.)
A piece of rope with thimble or block spliced into one or both of the ends.
R. H. Dana, Ir.

3.
A piece of timber with a forked end, used in dragging a heavy stone, a log, or the like, from a field.

Lizard snake (Zool.), the garter snake (Eutænia sirtalis). -- Lizard stone (Min.), a kind of serpentine from near Lizard Point, Cornwall, England, -- used for ornamental purposes.


word: lizard fish
definition:
lizard fish

lizardfish

lizardfish, lizard fish
n.
(Zool.)
Any of several mostly tropical marine scopeloid fish of the family Synodontidae having large mouths in lizardlike heads, especially the inshore lizardfish (Synodus foetens syn. Synodus poeyi) of Mideastern and Southern United States and West Indies; -- sometimes called sand pike.
A freshwater perch, the sauger, a different fish, is also called the sand pike.

Syn. -- snakefish.


word: Lizard's tail
definition:
Lizard's tail

Liz"ard's tail`
(?)
n.
(Bot.)
A perennial plant of the genus Saururus (Saururus cernuus), growing in marshes, and having white flowers crowded in a slender terminal spike, somewhat resembling in form a lizard's tail; whence the name.
Gray.


word: Llama
definition:
Llama

Lla"ma
n.
[Peruv.]
1.
(Zool.)
A South American ruminant (Auchenia llama), allied to the camels, but much smaller and without a hump. It is supposed to be a domesticated variety of the guanaco. It was formerly much used as a beast of burden in the Andes, and is also kept on some ranches in the United States.

2.
The fleece of the llama{1}, a fine, soft wool-like hair.


word: Llandeilo group
definition:
Llandeilo group

Llan*dei"lo group`
(Geol.)
A series of strata in the lower Silurian formations of Great Britain; -- so named from Llandeilo in Southern Wales. See Chart of Geology.


word: Llano
definition:
Llano

Lla"no
(?)
n.
pl. Llanos (#).
[Sp., plain even, level. See Plain.]
An extensive plain with or without vegetation.
[Spanish America]


word: Lloyd's
definition:
Lloyd's

Lloyd's
(?)
n.
1.
An association of underwriters and others in London, for the collection and diffusion of marine intelligence, the insurance, classification, registration, and certifying of vessels, and the transaction of business of various kinds connected with shipping.

2.
A part of the Royal Exchange, in London, appropriated to the use of underwriters and insurance brokers; -- called also Lloyd's Rooms.

&hand_; The name is derived from Lloyd's Coffee House, in Lombard Street, where there were formerly rooms for the same purpose. The name Lloyd or Lloyd's has been taken by several associations, in different parts of Europe, established for purposes similar to those of the original association.

Lloyd's agents, persons employed in various parts of the world, by the association called Lloyd's, to serve its interests. -- Lloyd's list, a publication of the latest news respecting shipping matters, with lists of vessels, etc., made under the direction of Lloyd's. Brande & C. -- Lloyd's register, a register of vessels rated according to their quality, published yearly.


word: Llullaillaco
definition:
Llullaillaco

Llullaillaco
prop. n.
A mountain in Argentina and Chile, 22,057 feet high.
proper name


word: Llyr
definition:
Llyr

Llyr
prop. n.
(Welsh mythology)
the sea personified, father of Manawydan; corresponds to the Irish Ler.


word: Lo
definition:
Lo

Lo
(?)
interj.
[OE. lo, low; perh. akin to E. look, v.]
Look; see; behold; observe.
Lo
Matt. xxiv. 23.
Lo
Acts xiii. 46.


word: Loach
definition:
Loach

Loach
(l&omacrch)
n.
[OE. loche, F. loche.]
(Zool.)
Any one of several small, fresh-water, cyprinoid fishes of the genera Cobitis, Nemachilus, and allied genera, having six or more barbules around the mouth. They are found in Europe and Asia. The common European species (Nemachilus barbatulus) is used as a food fish.


word: Load
definition:
Load

Load
(l&omacrd)
n.
[OE. lode load, way; properly the same word as lode, but confused with lade, load, v. See Lade, Lead, v., Lode.]
1.
A burden; that which is laid on or put in anything for conveyance; that which is borne or sustained; a weight; as, a heavy load.

He might such a load
To town with his ass carry.
Gower.

2.
The quantity which can be carried or drawn in some specified way; the contents of a cart, barrow, or vessel; that which will constitute a cargo; lading.

3.
That which burdens, oppresses, or grieves the mind or spirits; as, a load of care.
load
Ray.
load
Dryden.

4.
A particular measure for certain articles, being as much as may be carried at one time by the conveyance commonly used for the article measured; as, a load of wood; a load of hay; specifically, five quarters.

5.
The charge of a firearm; as, a load of powder.

6.
Weight or violence of blows.
[Obs.]
Milton.

7.
(Mach.)
The work done by a steam engine or other prime mover when working.

8.
The amount of work that a person, group, or machine is assigned to perform; as, the boss distributed the load evenly among his employees.

9.
(Elec.)
The device or devices that consume power from a power supply.

10.
(Engineering)
The weight or force that a structural support bears or is designed to bear; the object that creates that force.

Load line, or Load water line (Naut.), the line on the outside of a vessel indicating the depth to which it sinks in the water when loaded.


word: Load₂
definition:
Load

Load
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Loaded; p. pr. & vb. n. Loading. Loaden is obsolete, and laden belongs to lade.]
1.
To lay a load or burden on or in, as on a horse or in a cart; to charge with a load, as a gun; to furnish with a lading or cargo, as a ship; hence, to add weight to, so as to oppress or embarrass; to heap upon.

I strive all in vain to load the cart.
Gascoigne.

I have loaden me with many spoils.
Shak.

Those honors deep and broad, wherewith
Your majesty loads our house.
Shak.

2.
To adulterate or drug; as, to load wine.
[Cant]

3.
To magnetize.
[Obs.]
Prior.

Loaded dice, dice with one side made heavier than the others, so that the number on the opposite side will come up oftenest.


word: load-bearing
definition:
load-bearing

load-bearing
adj.
(Arch.)
Supporting a load{10} from parts of a structure above; as, a load-bearing wall.
[prenominal]

Syn. -- supporting(prenominal).


word: loaded
definition:
loaded

loaded
adj.
1.
containing as much or as many as is possible; -- of containers, vehicles, trays, etc.; as, a tray loaded with dishes

Syn. -- laden.

2.
containing a shell or an explosive charge ready for firing; -- of firearms.  Opposite of unloaded.

3.
charged with associative significance and often meant to mislead or influence; -- of statements or questions; as, a loaded question.

4.
having an abundant supply of money or possessions of value; as, She was not merely rich but loaded.

Syn. -- affluent, flush, moneyed, wealthy.

5.
very drunk.
[slang]

Syn. -- blotto, crocked, fuddled, pissed, pixilated, plastered, potty, slopped, sloshed, smashed, soused, sozzled, squiffy, stiff, tiddly, tiddley, tight, tipsy, wet.


word: Loader
definition:
Loader

Load"er
(?)
n.
One who, or that which, loads; a mechanical contrivance for loading, as a gun.


word: Lodemanage
definition:
Lodemanage

Loadmanage

{ Load"man*age, Lode"man*age (?) }
n.
Pilotage; skill of a pilot or loadsman.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: load-shedding
definition:
load-shedding

load-shedding
n.
The act or process of disconnecting the electric current on certain lines when the demand becomes greater than the supply.


word: Lodesman
definition:
Lodesman

Loadsman

{ Loads"man, Lodes"man (?) }
n.
[Load, lode + man. See Lode.]
A pilot.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: Lodestar
definition:
Lodestar

Loadstar

{ Load"star`, Lode"star` (?) }
n.
[Load, lode + star.  See Lode.]
1.
A star that leads; a guiding star; esp., the polestar, Polaris; also, the constellation containing the pole star, the cynosure (Ursa Minor).
Chaucer.
lodestars
Shak.

The pilot can no loadstar see.
Spenser.

2.
Something that serves as a guide or provides direction; a cynosure{2}.

3.
Something that attracts attention or on which the atention is fixed; a cynosure{3}.


word: Lodestone
definition:
Lodestone

Loadstone

{ Load"stone`, Lode"stone (?) }
n.
[Load, lode + stone.]
(Min.)
A piece of magnetite, a magnetic iron ore, possessing polarity like a magnetic needle, having the power to attract as well as to be attracted magnetically. See Magnetite.


word: Loaf
definition:
Loaf

Loaf
(?)
n.
pl. Loaves (#).
[OE. lof, laf, AS. hlāf; akin to G. laib, OHG. hleip, Icel. hleifr, Goth. hlaifs, Russ. khlieb', Lith. klëpas.  Cf. Lady, Lammas, Lord.]
Any thick lump, mass, or cake; especially, a large regularly shaped or molded mass, as of bread, sugar, or cake.
Bacon.

Loaf sugar, refined sugar that has been formed into a conical loaf in a mold.


word: Loaf₂
definition:
Loaf

Loaf
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Loafed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Loafing.]
[G. laufen to run, Prov. G. loofen. See Leap.]
To spend time in idleness; to lounge or loiter about.
Loafing
W. Black.


word: Loafer
definition:
Loafer

Loaf"er
(?)
n.
[G. läufer a runner, Prov. G. laufer, lofer, fr. laufen to run. See Leap.]
1.
One who loafs; a lazy lounger.
Lowell.

2.
A type of shoe without laces which can be easily slipped on or off; -- originally a trademark; as, he bought a new pair of loafers.


word: Loam
definition:
Loam

Loam
(l&omacrm)
n.
[AS. lām; akin to D. leem, G. lehm, and E. lime. See 4th Lime.]
1.
A kind of soil; an earthy mixture of clay and sand, with organic matter to which its fertility is chiefly due.

We wash a wall of loam; we labor in vain.
Hooker.

2.
(Founding)
A mixture of sand, clay, and other materials, used in making molds for large castings, often without a pattern.

Loam mold (Founding), a mold made with loam. See Loam, n., 2. -- Loam molding, the process or business of making loam molds. Loam plate, an iron plate upon which a section of a loam mold rests, or from which it is suspended. -- Loam work, loam molding or loam molds.


word: Loam₂
definition:
Loam

Loam
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Loamed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Loaming.]
To cover, smear, or fill with loam.


word: loamless
definition:
loamless

loamless
adj.
having no loam; -- of soil; as, a stony loamless yard.  Contrasted with loamy.


word: Loan₂
definition:
Loan

Loan
n.
[OE. lone, lane, AS. lān, læn, fr. leín to lend; akin to D. leen loan, fief, G. lehen fief, Icel. lān, G. leihen to lend, OHG. līhan, Icel. ljī, Goth. leihwan, L. linquere to leave, Gr. lei`pein, Skr. ric.  √119.  Cf. Delinquent, Eclipse, Eleven, Ellipse, Lend, License, Relic.]
1.
The act of lending; a lending; permission to use; as, the loan of a book, money, services.

2.
That which one lends or borrows, especially a sum of money lent at interest; as, he repaid the loan.

Loan office. (a) An office at which loans are negotiated, or at which the accounts of loans are kept, and the interest paid to the lender. (b) A pawnbroker's shop.


word: Loan₃
definition:
Loan

Loan
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Loaned (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Loaning.]
To lend; -- sometimes with out.
Kent.

By way of location or loaning them out.
J. Langley (1644).


word: Loanable
definition:
Loanable

Loan"a*ble
(?)
a.
Such as can be lent; available for lending; as, loanable funds; -- used mostly in financial business and writings.


word: loanblend
definition:
loanblend

loan"blend
n.
a word that is composed of parts from different languages; e.g. monolingual has a Greek prefix and a Latin root.

Syn. -- hybrid.


word: loaner
definition:
loaner

loaner
n.
1.
someone who lends money or gives credit in business matters.

Syn. -- lender.

2.
Something borrowed or lent.
[informal]


word: Loaning
definition:
Loaning

Loanin

{ Loan"in (?), Loan"ing, }
n.
[From Scotch loan, E. lawn.]
An open space between cultivated fields through which cattle are driven, and where the cows are sometimes milked; also, a lane.
[Scot.]
Sir W. Scott.


word: Loanmonger
definition:
Loanmonger

Loan"mon`ger
(?)
n.
A dealer in, or negotiator of, loans.

The millions of the loanmonger.
Beaconsfield.


word: loanword
definition:
loanword

loanword
n.
a word borrowed from another language; e.g. blitz is a German word borrowed into modern English.

Syn. -- loan.


word: loasa
definition:
loasa

loasa
n.
any of various perennial South American plants of the genus Loasa having stinging hairs and showy white or yellow or reddish-orange flowers.


word: Loasaceae
definition:
Loasaceae

Loasaceae
n.
A natural family of bristly hairy sometimes climbing plants; America and Africa and Southern Arabia.

Syn. -- family Loasaceae, loasa family.


word: Loath
definition:
Loath

Loath
(l&omacrth)
a.
[OE. looth, loth, AS. lāð hostile, odious; akin to OS. lāð, G. leid, Icel. leiðr, Sw. led, G. leiden to suffer, OHG. līdan to suffer, go, cf. AS. līðan to go, Goth. leipan, and E. lead to guide.]
1.
Hateful; odious; disliked.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.

2.
Filled with disgust or aversion; averse; unwilling; reluctant; as, loath to part.

Full loth were him to curse for his tithes.
Chaucer.

Why, then, though loath, yet must I be content.
Shak.


word: Loathe
definition:
Loathe

Loathe
(l&omacr&thlig_;)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Loathed (l&omacr&thlig_;d); p. pr. & vb. n. Loathing.]
[AS. lāðian to hate. See Loath.]
1.
To feel extreme disgust at, or aversion for.

Loathing the honeyed cakes, I Ionged for bread.
Cowley.

2.
To dislike greatly; to abhor; to hate; to detest.

The secret which I loathe.
Waller.

She loathes the vital sir.
Dryden.


word: Loathful
definition:
Loathful

Loath"ful
(?)
a.
1.
Full of loathing; hating; abhorring.
Loathful
Spenser.

2.
Causing a feeling of loathing; disgusting.

Above the reach of loathful, sinful lust.
Spenser.


word: Loathing
definition:
Loathing

Loath"ing
n.
Extreme disgust; a feeling of aversion, nausea, abhorrence, or detestation.

The mutual fear and loathing of the hostile races.
Macaulay.


word: Loathly₂
definition:
Loathly

Loath"ly
(l&omacrth"l&ybreve_;)
adv.
1.
Unwillingly; reluctantly.

This shows that you from nature loathly stray.
Donne.

2.
(l&omacr&thlig_;"l&ybreve_;)
So as to cause loathing.
[Obs.]

With dust and blood his locks were loathly dight.
Fairfax.


word: Loathness
definition:
Loathness

Loath"ness
(?)
n.
Unwillingness; reluctance.

A general silence and loathness to speak.
Bacon.


word: Loathsome
definition:
Loathsome

Loath"some
(?)
a.
Fitted to cause loathing; exciting disgust; disgusting; as, a loathsome disease.

The most loathsome and deadly forms of infection.
Macaulay.


word: Lob
definition:
Lob

Lob
(l&obreve_;b)
n.
[W. llob an unwieldy lump, a dull fellow, a blockhead.  Cf. Looby, Lubber.]
1.
A dull, heavy person.
lobs
Gauden.

2.
Something thick and heavy.


word: Lob₂
definition:
Lob

Lob
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Lobbed (l&obreve_;bd); p. pr. & vb. n. Lobbing.]
2.
To let fall heavily or lazily.

And their poor jades
Lob down their heads.
Shak.

2.
to propel (relatively slowly) in a high arcing trajectory; as, to lob a grenade at the enemy.

To lob a ball (Lawn Tennis), to strike a ball so as to send it up into the air.


word: Lob₅
definition:
Lob

Lob
(?)
n.
The act of lobbing;
specif.,
an (often gentle) stroke which sends a ball up into the air, as in tennis to avoid a player at the net.


word: Lobated
definition:
Lobated

Lobate

{ Lo"bate (?), Lo"ba*ted (?), }
a.
[See Lobe.]
1.
(Bot.)
Consisting of, or having, lobes; lobed; as, a lobate leaf.

2.
(Zool.)
(a)
Having lobes; -- said of the tails of certain fishes having the integument continued to the bases of the fin rays.
(b)
Furnished with membranous flaps, as the toes of a coot. See Illust. (m) under Aves.


word: Lobby
definition:
Lobby

Lob"by
(?)
n.
pl. Lobbies (#).
[LL. lobium, lobia, laubia, a covered portico fit for walking, fr. OHG. louba, G. laube, arbor. See Lodge.]
1.
(Arch.)
A passage or hall of communication, especially when large enough to serve also as a waiting room. It differs from an antechamber in that a lobby communicates between several rooms, an antechamber to one only; but this distinction is not carefully preserved.

2.
That part of a hall of legislation not appropriated to the official use of the assembly; hence, the persons, collectively, who frequent such a place to transact business with the legislators;
hence:
any persons, not members of a legislative body, who strive to influence its proceedings by personal agency; a group of lobbyists for a particular cause; as, the drug industry lobby.
[U. S.]

3.
(Naut.)
An apartment or passageway in the fore part of an old-fashioned cabin under the quarter-deck.

4.
(Agric.)
A confined place for cattle, formed by hedges. trees, or other fencing, near the farmyard.

Lobby member, a lobbyist. [Humorous cant, U. S.]


word: Lobby₂
definition:
Lobby

Lob"by
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Lobbied (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Lobbying.]
To address or solicit members of a legislative body in the lobby or elsewhere, with the purpose to influence their votes; in an extended sense, to try to influence decision-makers in any circumstance.
[U.S.]
Bartlett.


word: Lobby₃
definition:
Lobby

Lob"by
v. t.
To urge the adoption or passage of by soliciting members of a legislative body; as, to lobby a bill; -- also used with the legislators as object; as, to lobby the state legislatuire for protection.
[U.S.]


word: Lobbyist
definition:
Lobbyist

Lob"by*ist
n.
A member of the lobby; a person who solicits members of a legislature for the purpose of influencing legislation.
[U.S.]


word: Lobe
definition:
Lobe

Lobe
(l&omacrb)
n.
[F. lobe, Gr. lobo`s.]
Any projection or division, especially one of a somewhat rounded form
(a)
(Bot.)
A rounded projection or division of a leaf.
Gray.
(b)
(Zool.)
A membranous flap on the sides of the toes of certain birds, as the coot.
(c)
(Anat.)
A round projecting part of an organ, as of the liver, lungs, brain, etc. See Illust. of Brain.
(b)
(Mach.)
The projecting part of a cam wheel or of a non-circular gear wheel.

Lobe of the ear, the soft, fleshy prominence in which the human ear terminates below, also called the earlobe. See. Illust. of Ear.


word: lobectomy
definition:
lobectomy

lobectomy
n.
surgical removal of a lobe from any organ of the body (such as the lung or brain).


word: Lobelia
definition:
Lobelia

Lo*be"li*a
(?; 106)
n.
[NL. So called from Lobel, botanist to King James I.]
(Bot.)
A genus of plants, including a great number of species. Lobelia inflata, or Indian tobacco, is an annual plant of North America, whose leaves contain a poisonous white viscid juice, of an acrid taste. It has often been used in medicine as an emetic, expectorant, etc.  Lobelia cardinalis is the cardinal flower, remarkable for the deep and vivid red color of its flowers.


word: Lobeliaceae
definition:
Lobeliaceae

Lobeliaceae
n.
A natural family of plants not recognized in all classification systems; in some classifications lobeliaceous plants are included in family Campanulaceae.

Syn. -- family Lobeliaceae, lobelia family.


word: Lobeliaceous
definition:
Lobeliaceous

Lo*be`li*a"ceous
(?)
a.
(Bot.)
Of or pertaining to a natural order of plants of which the genus Lobelia is the type.


word: Lobelin
definition:
Lobelin

Lo*be"lin
(?)
n.
(Med.)
A yellowish green resin from Lobelia, used as an emetic and diaphoretic.


word: Lobeline
definition:
Lobeline

Lo*be"line
(?)
n.
(Chem.)
A poisonous narcotic alkaloid extracted from the leaves of Indian tobacco (Lobelia inflata) as a yellow oil, having a tobaccolike taste and odor.


word: Loblolly
definition:
Loblolly

Lob"lol`ly
(?)
n.
[Etymol. uncertain.]
Gruel; porridge; -- so called among seamen.

Loblolly bay (Bot.), an elegant white-flowered evergreen shrub or small tree, of the genus Gordonia (Gordonia Lasianthus), growing in the maritime parts of the Southern United States. Its bark is sometimes used in tanning. Also, a similar West Indian tree (Laplacea hæmatoxylon). -- Loblolly boy, a surgeon's attendant on shipboard. Smollett. -- Loblolly pine (Bot.), a kind of pitch pine found from Delaware southward along the coast; old field pine (Pinus Tæda). Also, Pinus Bahamensis, of the West Indies. -- Loblolly tree (Bot.), a name of several West Indian trees, having more or less leathery foliage, but alike in no other respect; as Pisonia subcordata, Cordia alba, and Cupania glabra.


word: Lobosa
definition:
Lobosa

Lo*bo"sa
(?)
n. pl.
[NL. See Lobe.]
(Zool.)
An order of Rhizopoda, in which the pseudopodia are thick and irregular in form, as in the Amœba.


word: Lobotidae
definition:
Lobotidae

Lobotidae
n.
A natural family of fishes including the tripletails.

Syn. -- family Lobotidae.


word: lobotomy
definition:
lobotomy

lobotomy
n.
(Med., Surgery)
The surgical interruption of nerve tracts to and from the frontal lobe of the brain, by cutting into the brain.

Syn. -- prefrontal lobotomy, prefrontal leucotomy.


word: Lobscouse
definition:
Lobscouse

Lob"scouse`
(?)
n.
[Written also lobscourse from which lobscouse is corrupted.]
[Lob + course.]
(Naut.)
A combination of meat with vegetables, bread, etc., usually stewed, sometimes baked; an olio.


word: Lobster
definition:
Lobster

Lob"ster
(?)
n.
[AS. loppestre, lopystre prob., corrupted fr. L. locusta a marine shellfish, a kind of lobster, a locust.  Cf. Locust.]
(Zool.)
1.
Any large macrurous crustacean used as food, esp. those of the genus Homarus; as the American lobster (Homarus Americanus), and the European lobster (Homarus vulgaris). The Norwegian lobster (Nephrops Norvegicus) is similar in form.  All these have a pair of large unequal claws.  The spiny lobsters of more southern waters, belonging to Palinurus, Panulirus, and allied genera, have no large claws. The fresh-water crayfishes are sometimes called lobsters.

2.
As a term of opprobrium or contempt: A gullible, awkward, bungling, or undesirable person.
[Slang]

Lobster caterpillar (Zool.), the caterpillar of a European bombycid moth (Stauropus fagi); -- so called from its form. Lobster louse (Zool.), a copepod crustacean (Nicothoë astaci) parasitic on the gills of the European lobster.


word: lobsterback
definition:
lobsterback

lobsterback
n.
(American History)
A British soldier in the 1700's; -- so-called because of his red coat, esp. during the American Revolutionary War.

Syn. -- redcoat.


word: lobster-backed
definition:
lobster-backed

lobster-backed
adj.
(American History)
Of or pertaining to British soldiers during the Revolutionary War in America; -- so called because of their red coats.

Syn. -- red-coated.


word: Lobster pot
definition:
Lobster pot

Lob"ster pot
(?)
n.
a device used to trap lobsters, consisting of a semi-cylindrical structure made of wooden slats, with openings formed of funnel-shaped nets allowing lobsters to enter, but impeding their exit.  It is also called a lobster trap.


word: Lobsters thermidor
definition:
Lobsters thermidor

Lobster thermidor

Lob"ster ther"mi*dor, Lob"sters ther"mi*dor
(?)
n.
a dish of lobster meat cooked with a rich creamy wine sauce, stuffed back into the lobster shell, sprinkled with grated cheese, and browned.


word: Lobulated
definition:
Lobulated

Lobulate

{ Lob"u*late (?), Lob"u*la`ted (?), }
a.
Made up of, or divided into, lobules; as, a lobulated gland.


word: Lobule
definition:
Lobule

Lob"ule
n.
[Cf. F. lobule, dim. of lobe. See Lobe.]
A small lobe; a subdivision of a lobe.

Lobule of the ear. (Anat.) Same as Lobe of the ear.


word: Lobulette
definition:
Lobulette

Lob`u*lette"
(?)
n.
[Dim. of lobule.]
(Anat.)
A little lobule, or subdivision of a lobule.


word: Local
definition:
Local

Lo"cal
(l&omacr"kal)
a.
[L. localis, fr. locus place: cf. F. local. See Lieu, Locus.]
Of or pertaining to a particular place, or to a definite region or portion of space; restricted to one place or region; as, a local custom.

Gives to airy nothing
A local habitation and a name.
Shak.

Local actions (Law), actions such as must be brought in a particular county, where the cause arises; -- distinguished from transitory actions. -- Local affection (Med.), a disease or ailment confined to a particular part or organ, and not directly affecting the system. -- Local attraction (Magnetism), an attraction near a compass, causing its needle to deviate from its proper direction, especially on shipboard. -- Local battery (Teleg.), the battery which actuates the recording instruments of a telegraphic station, as distinguished from the battery furnishing a current for the line. -- Local circuit (Teleg.), the circuit of the local battery. -- Local color. (a) (Paint.) The color which belongs to an object, and is not caused by accidental influences, as of reflection, shadow, etc. (b) (Literature) Peculiarities of the place and its inhabitants where the scene of an action or story is laid. -- Local option, the right or obligation of determining by popular vote within certain districts, as in each county, city, or town, whether the sale of alcoholic beverages within the district shall be allowed.


word: Local₂
definition:
Local

Lo"cal
n.
1.
(Railroad)
A train which receives and deposits passengers or freight along the line of the road; a train for the accommodation of a certain district.
[U.S.]
2.
In newspaper cant, an item of news relating to the place where the paper is published.
[U.S.]

3.
A train or bus which stops at all stations along a line, as contrasted with an express, which stops only at certain stations designated as express stops.


word: Locale
definition:
Locale

Lo`cale"
(?)
n.
[F. local.]
1.
A place, spot, or location.

2.
A principle, practice, form of speech, or other thing of local use, or limited to a locality.


word: localisation
definition:
localisation

localisation
n.
Same as localization.
[Chiefly Brit.]

Syn. -- , location, locating, fix.


word: Localism
definition:
Localism

Lo"cal*ism
(?)
n.
1.
The state or quality of being local; affection for a particular place.

2.
A method of speaking or acting peculiar to a certain district; a local idiom or phrase.


word: Locality
definition:
Locality

Lo*cal"i*ty
(?)
n.
pl. Localitiees (_;).
[L. localitas: cf. F. localité.]
1.
The state, or condition, of belonging to a definite place, or of being contained within definite limits.

It is thought that the soul and angels are devoid of quantity
and dimension, and that they have nothing to do with grosser locality.
Glanvill.

2.
Position; situation; a place; a spot; esp., a geographical place or situation, as of a mineral or plant.

3.
Limitation to a county, district, or place; as, locality of trial.
Blackstone.

4.
(Phren.)
The perceptive faculty concerned with the ability to remember the relative positions of places.


word: Localization
definition:
Localization

Lo`cal*i*za"tion
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. localisation.]
Act of localizing, or state of being localized.

Cerebral localization (Physiol.), the localization of the control of special functions, as of sight or of the various movements of the body, in special regions of the brain.


word: Localize
definition:
Localize

Lo"cal*ize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Localized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Localizing (?).]
[Cf. F. localiser. See Local.]
To make local; to fix in, or assign to, a definite place.
H. Spencer. Wordsworth.


word: localized
definition:
localized

localized
adj.
1.
(Medicine)
confined or restricted to a particular location; as, the localized infection formed a definite abscess.   Contrasted with disseminated or systemic.

2.
made local or oriented locally; as, a decentralized and localized political authority.


word: Locate
definition:
Locate

Lo"cate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Located (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Locating.]
[L. locatus, p. p. of locare to place, fr. locus place. See Local.]
1.
To place; to set in a particular spot or position.

The captives and emigrants whom he brought with him were located in the trans-Tiberine quarter.
B. F. Westcott.

2.
To designate the site or place of; to define the limits of; as, to locate a public building; to locate a mining claim; to locate (the land granted by) a land warrant.

That part of the body in which the sense of touch is located.
H. Spencer.

3.
To discover the location or site of; as, to locate the source of a radio transmission; to locate a leak; to locate the malfunction in a system.


word: Locate₂
definition:
Locate

Lo"cate
v. i.
To place one's self; to take up one's residence; to settle; as, to locate in Seattle.
[Colloq.]


word: located
definition:
located

located
adj.
1.
situated in a particular spot or position; as, valuable centrally located urban land.

Syn. -- placed, set, situated.

2.
situated: often used in combination; as, a well-located business.


word: locating
definition:
locating

locating
n.
1.
the act of putting something in a certain place or location.

Syn. -- location, placement, position, positioning, emplacement, situating.

2.
a determination of the location of something.

Syn. -- localization, localisation, location, fix.


word: Location
definition:
Location

Lo*ca"tion
(?)
n.
[L. locatio, fr. locare.]
1.
The act or process of locating.

2.
Situation; place; locality.
Locke.

3.
That which is located; a tract of land designated in place.
[U.S.]

4.
(Law)
(a)
(Civil Law)
A leasing on rent.
(b)
(Scots Law)
A contract for the use of a thing, or service of a person, for hire.
Wharton.
(c)
(Amer. Law)
The marking out of the boundaries, or identifying the place or site of, a piece of land, according to the description given in an entry, plan, map, etc.
Burrill. Bouvier.


word: Locative
definition:
Locative

Loc"a*tive
(?)
a.
(Gram.)
Indicating place, or the place where, or wherein; as, a locative adjective; locative case of a noun.
n. The locative case.


word: Locator
definition:
Locator

Lo"ca*tor
(?)
n.
One who locates, or is entitled to locate, land or a mining claim.
[U.S.]


word: Locellate
definition:
Locellate

Lo*cel"late
(?)
a.
[L. locellus a compartment, dim. of locus a place.]
(Bot.)
Divided into secondary compartments or cells, as where one cavity is separated into several smaller ones.


word: Loch
definition:
Loch

Loch
(l&obreve_;k)
n.
[Gael. & Olr. loch. See Lake of water.]
A lake; a bay or arm of the sea.
[Scot.]


word: Loch₂
definition:
Loch

Loch
(l&obreve_;k)
n.
[F. looch, Ar. la'ūg, an electuary, or any medicine which may be licked or sucked, fr. la'ūq to lick.]
(Med.)
A kind of medicine to be taken by licking with the tongue; a lambative; a lincture.


word: Lochaber axe
definition:
Lochaber axe

Lochaber ax

{ Loch*a"ber ax", Loch*a"ber axe"  }
(?)
n.
[So called from Lochaber, in Scotland.]
A weapon of war, consisting of a pole armed with an axhead at its end, formerly used by the Scotch Highlanders.


word: Lochage
definition:
Lochage

Loch"age
(?)
n.
[Gr._;.]
(Gr. Antiq.)
An officer who commanded a company; a captain.
Mitford.


word: Lochan
definition:
Lochan

Loch"an
(?)
n.
[Gael. See 1st Loch.]
A small lake; a pond.
[Scot.]

A pond or lochan rather than a lake.
H. Miller.


word: Lochia
definition:
Lochia

Lo*chi"a
(l&omacr"kĭ*ȧ or lo̝*kī"ȧ)
n. pl.
[NL., from Gr. _;, pl., fr. _; belonging to childbirth, _; a lying in, childbirth.]
(Med.)
The discharge from the womb and vagina which follows childbirth.


word: Lock
definition:
Lock

Lock
(l&obreve_;k)
n.
[AS. locc; akin to D. lok, G. locke, OHG. loc, Icel. lokkr, and perh. to Gr. _; to bend, twist.]
A tuft of hair; a flock or small quantity of wool, hay, or other like substance; a tress or ringlet of hair.

These gray locks, the pursuivants of death.
Shak.


word: Lock₂
definition:
Lock

Lock
n.
[AS. loc inclosure, an inclosed place, the fastening of a door, fr. lūcan to lock, fasten; akin to OS. lūkan (in comp.), D. luiken, OHG. lūhhan, Icel. lūka, Goth. lūkan (in comp.); cf. Skr. ruj to break.  Cf. Locket.]
1.
Anything that fastens; specifically, a fastening, as for a door, a lid, a trunk, a drawer, and the like, in which a bolt is moved by a key so as to hold or to release the thing fastened.

2.
A fastening together or interlacing; a closing of one thing upon another; a state of being fixed or immovable.

Albemarle Street closed by a lock of carriages.
De Quincey.

3.
A place from which egress is prevented, as by a lock.
Dryden.

4.
The barrier or works which confine the water of a stream or canal.

5.
An inclosure in a canal with gates at each end, used in raising or lowering boats as they pass from one level to another; -- called also lift lock.

6.
That part or apparatus of a firearm by which the charge is exploded; as, a matchlock, flintlock, percussion lock, etc.

7.
A device for keeping a wheel from turning.

8.
A grapple in wrestling.
Milton.

Detector lock, a lock containing a contrivance for showing whether it as has been tampered with. -- Lock bay (Canals), the body of water in a lock chamber. -- Lock chamber, the inclosed space between the gates of a canal lock. -- Lock nut. See Check nut, under Check. -- Lock plate, a plate to which the mechanism of a gunlock is attached. -- Lock rail (Arch.), in ordinary paneled doors, the rail nearest the lock. Lock rand (Masonry), a range of bond stone. Knight. -- Mortise lock, a door lock inserted in a mortise. -- Rim lock, a lock fastened to the face of a door, thus differing from a mortise lock.


word: Lock₃
definition:
Lock

Lock
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Locked (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Locking.]
1.
To fasten with a lock, or as with a lock; to make fast; to prevent free movement of; as, to lock a door, a carriage wheel, a river, etc.

2.
To prevent ingress or access to, or exit from, by fastening the lock or locks of; -- often with up; as, to lock or lock up, a house, jail, room, trunk. etc.

3.
To fasten in or out, or to make secure by means of, or as with, locks; to confine, or to shut in or out -- often with up; as, to lock one's self in a room; to lock up the prisoners; to lock up one's silver; to lock intruders out of the house; to lock money into a vault; to lock a child in one's arms; to lock a secret in one's breast.

4.
To link together; to clasp closely; as, to lock arms.
Lock
Shak.

5.
(Canals)
To furnish with locks; also, to raise or lower (a boat) in a lock.

6.
(Fencing)
To seize, as the sword arm of an antagonist, by turning the left arm around it, to disarm him.


word: Lock₄
definition:
Lock

Lock
(?)
v. i.
To become fast, as by means of a lock or by interlacing; as, the door locks close.

When it locked none might through it pass.
Spenser.

To lock into, to fit or slide into; as, they lock into each other. Boyle.


word: Lockage
definition:
Lockage

Lock"age
(?)
n.
1.
Materials for locks in a canal, or the works forming a lock or locks.

2.
Toll paid for passing the locks of a canal.

3.
Amount of elevation and descent made by the locks of a canal.

The entire lock will be about fifty feet.
De Witt Clinton.


word: lockbox
definition:
lockbox

lock"box`
(?)
n.
A box of strong and durable construction, fitted with a lock, used for the purpose of protecting valuable items, such as money or jewelry; a strongbox.


word: Lock-down
definition:
Lock-down

Lock"-down`
(?)
n.
A contrivance to fasten logs together in rafting; -- used by lumbermen.
[U.S.]


word: Locker
definition:
Locker

Lock"er
(?)
n.
1.
One who, or that which, locks.

2.
A drawer, cupboard, compartment, or chest, esp. one in a ship, that may be closed with a lock.

Chain locker (Naut.), a compartment in the hold of a vessel, for holding the chain cables. -- Davy Jones's locker, or Davy's locker. See Davy Jones. -- Shot locker, a compartment where shot are deposited. Totten.


word: Locket
definition:
Locket

Lock"et
(?)
n.
[F. loquet latch, dim. of OF. loc latch, lock; of German origin. See Lock a fastening.]

1.
A small lock; a catch or spring to fasten a necklace or other ornament.

2.
A little case for holding a miniature picture or lock of hair, usually suspended from a necklace or watch chain.


word: Lockjaw
definition:
Lockjaw

Lock"jaw`
(?)
n.
(Med.)
A contraction of the muscles of the jaw by which its motion is suspended; a variety of tetanus; trismus.


word: lock nut
definition:
lock nut

locknut

locknut, lock nut
n.
a supplementary nut that is screwed down on a primary nut to prevent it from loosening; a check nut.


word: Lockout
definition:
Lockout

Lock"out`
(?)
n.
The closing of a factory or workshop by an employer, usually in order to bring the workmen to satisfactory terms by a suspension of wages.


word: Lockram
definition:
Lockram

Lock"ram
(?)
n.
[F. locrenan, locronan; from Locronan, in Brittany, where it is said to have been made.]
A kind of linen cloth anciently used in England, originally imported from Brittany.
Shak.


word: Locksmith
definition:
Locksmith

Lock"smith`
(?)
n.
A person whose occupation is to make, mend, or install locks, or to make keys for locks.


word: Lock step
definition:
Lock step

Lock" step`
(?)
n.
1.
A mode of marching by a body of men going one after another as closely as possible, in which the leg of each moves at the same time with the corresponding leg of the person before him.

2.
Hence:
(fig.)
The slavish copying of one person's actions by another; as, party members who vote in lockstep with the leadership.


word: Lock stitch
definition:
Lock stitch

Lock" stitch`
(?)
n.
A peculiar sort of stitch formed by the locking of two threads together, as in the work done by some sewing machines. See Stitch.


word: Lockup
definition:
Lockup

Lock"up`
(?)
1.
n.
A place where persons under arrest are temporarily locked up; a watchhouse; a jail.

2.
The act or state of temporary imprisonment in a lockup{1}.

3.
A malfunction in a machine having moving parts, such that the moving part cannot move; a seizure.


word: Lock washer
definition:
Lock washer

Lock" wash`er
(?)
n.
A washer that is not completely smooth or flat, designed to prevent a nut from loosening, placed under the nut on a screw or bolt.


word: Loco
definition:
Loco

Lo"co
(?)
adv.
[It.]
(Mus.)
A direction in written or printed music to return to the proper pitch after having played an octave higher.


word: Loco₂
definition:
Loco

Lo"co
n.
[Sp. loco insane.]
1.
(Bot.)
A plant (Astragalus Hornii) growing in the Southwestern United States, which is said to poison horses and cattle, first making them insane. The name is also given vaguely to several other species of the same genus. Called also loco weed.

2.
(Bot.)
Any one of various leguminous plants or weeds besides Astragalus, whose herbage is poisonous to cattle, as Spiesia Lambertii, syn. Oxytropis Lambertii.


word: Loco₃
definition:
Loco

Lo"co
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Locoed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Locoing.]
To poison with loco; to affect with the loco disease; hence (Colloq.), to render insane or mad.
locoed
W. D. Howells.


word: Loco disease
definition:
Loco disease

Loco disease
(Veter.)
A chronic nervous affection of cattle, horses, and sheep, caused by eating the loco weed and characterized by a slow, measured gait, high step, glassy eyes with defective vision, delirium, and gradual emaciation.


word: Locofoco
definition:
Locofoco

Lo`co*fo"co
(?)
n.
[Of uncertain etymol.; perh. for L. loco foci instead of fire; or, according to Bartlett, it was called so from a self-lighting cigar, with a match composition at the end, invented in 1834 by John Marck of New York, and called by him locofoco cigar, in imitation of the word locomotive, which by the uneducated was supposed to mean, self-moving.]
1.
A friction match.
[U.S.]

2.
A nickname formerly given to a member of the Democratic party.
[U.S.]

&hand_; The name was first applied, in 1834, to a portion of the Democratic party, because, at a meeting in Tammany Hall, New York, in which there was great diversity of sentiment, the chairman left his seat, and the lights were extinguished, for the purpose of dissolving the meeting; when those who were opposed to an adjournment produced locofoco matches, rekindled the lights, continued the meeting, and accomplished their object.


word: locoism
definition:
locoism

locoism
n.
a disease of livestock caused by locoweed poisoning; characterized by weakness and lack of coordination and trembling and partial paralysis.

Syn. -- loco disease.


word: locomote
definition:
locomote

locomote
v. i.
[by back-formation from locomotion.]
To change location; move, travel, or proceed.

Syn. -- travel, go, move.


word: Locomotion
definition:
Locomotion

Lo`co*mo"tion
(?)
n.
[L. locus place +  motio motion: cf. F. locomotion. See Local, and Motion.]
1.
The act of moving from place to place.
locomotion
Milton.

2.
The power of moving from place to place, characteristic of the higher animals and some of the lower forms of plant life.

3.
The name of a song and a dance, briefly popular in the 1960's; as, do the locomotion.


word: Locomotive
definition:
Locomotive

Lo"co*mo`tive
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. locomotif. See Locomotion.]
1.
Moving from place to place; changing place, or able to change place; as, a locomotive animal.

2.
Used in producing motion; as, the locomotive organs of an animal.


word: Locomotive₂
definition:
Locomotive

Lo"co*mo`tive
(?)
n.
A locomotive engine; a self-propelling wheel carriage, especially one which bears a steam boiler and one or more steam engines which communicate motion to the wheels and thus propel the carriage, -- used to convey goods or passengers, or to draw wagons, railroad cars, etc. See Illustration in Appendix.

Consolidation locomotive, a locomotive having four pairs of connected drivers. -- Locomotive car, a locomotive and a car combined in one vehicle; a dummy engine. [U.S.] -- Locomotive engine. Same as Locomotive, above. -- Mogul locomotive. See Mogul.


word: Locomotivity
definition:
Locomotivity

Locomotiveness

{ Lo"co*mo`tive*ness (?), Lo`co*mo*tiv"i*ty (?), }
n.
[Cf. F. locomotivité.]
The power of changing place.


word: Locomotor
definition:
Locomotor

Lo`co*mo"tor
(?)
a.
[See Locomotion.]
Of or pertaining to movement or locomotion.

Locomotor ataxia, or Progressive locomotor ataxy (Med.), a disease of the spinal cord characterized by peculiar disturbances of gait, and difficulty in coordinating voluntary movements.


word: Loculament
definition:
Loculament

Loc"u*la*ment
(?)
n.
[L. loculamentum case, box, fr. loculus a compartment, dim. of locus place.]
(Bot.)
The cell of a pericarp in which the seed is lodged.


word: Locular
definition:
Locular

Loc"u*lar
(?)
a.
[L. locularis.]
(Bot.)
Of or relating to the cell or compartment of an ovary, etc.; in composition, having cells; as trilocular.
Gray.


word: Loculicidal
definition:
Loculicidal

Loc"u*li*ci`dal
(?)
a.
[L. loculus cell + caedere to cut: cf. F. loculicide.]
(Bot.)
Dehiscent through the middle of the back of each cell; -- said of capsules.


word: Loculous
definition:
Loculous

Loculose

{ Loc"u*lose` (?), Loc"u*lous (?), }
a.
[L. loculosus. See Loculament.]
(Bot.)
Divided by internal partitions into cells, as the pith of the pokeweed.


word: Loculus
definition:
Loculus

Loc"u*lus
(?)
n.
pl. Loculi (#).
[L., little place, a compartment.]
1.
(Zool.)
One of the spaces between the septa in the Anthozoa.

2.
(Bot.)
One of the compartments of a several-celled ovary; loculament.


word: Locum tenens
definition:
Locum tenens

Lo"cum te"nens
(?)
n.
[L., holding the place; locus place + tenens, p. pr. of tenere to hold.  Cf. Lieutenant.]
A substitute or deputy; one filling an office for a time.


word: Locus
definition:
Locus

Lo"cus
(?)
n.
pl. Loci (#), & Loca (#).
[L., place.  Cf. Allow, Couch, Lieu, Local.]
1.
A place; a locality.

2.
(Math.)
The line traced by a point which varies its position according to some determinate law; the surface described by a point or line that moves according to a given law.

Plane locus, a locus that is a straight line, or a circle. -- Solid locus, a locus that is one of the conic sections.


word: Locust
definition:
Locust

Lo"cust
(?)
n.
[L. locusta locust, grasshopper.  Cf. Lobster.]
1.
(Zool.)
Any one of numerous species of long-winged, migratory, orthopterous insects, of the family Acrididæ, allied to the grasshoppers; esp., (Edipoda migratoria, syn. Pachytylus migratoria, and Acridium perigrinum, of Southern Europe, Asia, and Africa. In the United States the related species with similar habits are usually called grasshoppers. See Grasshopper.

&hand_; These insects are at times so numerous in Africa and the south of Asia as to devour every green thing; and when they migrate, they fly in an immense cloud. In the United States the harvest flies are improperly called locusts. See Cicada.

Locust beetle (Zool.), a longicorn beetle (Cyllene robiniæ), which, in the larval state, bores holes in the wood of the locust tree.  Its color is brownish black, barred with yellow. Called also locust borer. -- Locust bird (Zool.) the rose-colored starling or pastor of India. See Pastor. -- Locust hunter (Zool.), an African bird; the beefeater.

2.
[Etymol. uncertain.]
(Bot.)
The locust tree. See Locust Tree (definition, note, and phrases).

Locust bean (Bot.), a commercial name for the sweet pod of the carob tree.


word: Locusta
definition:
Locusta

Lo*cus"ta
(?)
n.
[NL.: cf. locuste.]
(Bot.)
The spikelet or flower cluster of grasses.
Gray.


word: Locustella
definition:
Locustella

Lo`cus*tel"la
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. L. locusta a locust.]
(Zool.)
The European cricket warbler.


word: Locustic
definition:
Locustic

Lo*cus"tic
(?)
a.
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or derived from, the locust; -- formerly used to designate a supposed acid.


word: Locust tree
definition:
Locust tree

Lo"cust tree`
(?)
n.
[Etymol. uncertain.]
(Bot.)
A large North American tree of the genus Robinia (Robinia Pseudacacia), producing large slender racemes of white, fragrant, papilionaceous flowers, and often cultivated as an ornamental tree. In England it is called acacia.

&hand_; The name is also applied to other trees of different genera, especially to those of the genus Hymenæa, of which Hymenæa Courbaril is a lofty, spreading tree of South America; also to the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua), a tree growing in the Mediterranean region.

Honey locust tree (Bot.), a tree of the genus Gleditschia ) Gleditschia triacanthus), having pinnate leaves and strong branching thorns; -- so called from a sweet pulp found between the seeds in the pods. Called also simply honey locust. -- Water locust tree (Bot.), a small swamp tree (Gleditschia monosperma), of the Southern United States.


word: Locution
definition:
Locution

Lo*cu"tion
(lo̝*kū"shŭn)
n.
[L. locutio, fr. loqui to speak: cf. F. locution. ]
Speech or discourse; a phrase; a form or mode of expression.
locutions
G. Eliot.

I hate these figures in locution,
These about phrases forced by ceremony.
Marston.


word: Locutory
definition:
Locutory

Loc"u*to*ry
(l&obreve_;k"&uuptack_;*to̝*r&ybreve_;)
n.
A room for conversation; especially, a room in monasteries, where the monks were allowed to converse.


word: Lode
definition:
Lode

Lode
(l&omacrd)
n.
[AS. lād way, journey, fr. līðan to go. See Lead to guide, and cf. Load a burden.]
1.
A water course or way; a reach of water.

Down that long, dark lode . . .  he and his brother skated home in triumph.
C. Kingsley.

2.
(Mining)
A body of ore visibly separated from adjacent rock.

3.
Especially:
(Mining)
Any regular vein or course of valuable mineral, whether metallic or not.

4.
Hence:
A concentrated supply or source of something valuable.

mother lode a large concentrated source of mineral or other valuable thing, from which lesser sources have been derived; -- often used figuratively.  The term may have been originally applied to real or imagined large deposits of gold from which smaller granules were washed downstream, there constituting a diluted source of gold, and hinting at the richer source from which they were derived; as, to hit the mother lode.


word: Lodge
definition:
Lodge

Lodge
(l&obreve_;j)
n.
[OE. loge, logge, F. loge, LL. laubia porch, gallery, fr. OHG. louba, G. laube, arbor, bower, fr. lab foliage. See Leaf, and cf. Lobby, Loggia.]
1.
A shelter in which one may rest;
as:
(a)
A shed; a rude cabin; a hut; as, an Indian's lodge.
Chaucer.

Their lodges and their tentis up they gan bigge [to build].
Robert of Brunne.

O for a lodge in some vast wilderness!
Cowper.
2.
(Mining)
The space at the mouth of a level next the shaft, widened to permit wagons to pass, or ore to be deposited for hoisting; -- called also platt.
Raymond.

3.
A collection of objects lodged together.

The Maldives, a famous lodge of islands.
De Foe.

4.
A family of North American Indians, or the persons who usually occupy an Indian lodge, -- as a unit of enumeration, reckoned from four to six persons; as, the tribe consists of about two hundred lodges, that is, of about a thousand individuals.

Lodge gate, a park gate, or entrance gate, near the lodge. See Lodge, n., 1 (b).


word: Lodge₂
definition:
Lodge

Lodge
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Lodged (l&obreve_;jd); p. pr. & vb. n. Lodging (l&obreve_;j"ĭng).]
1.
To rest or remain a lodge house, or other shelter; to rest; to stay; to abide; esp., to sleep at night; as, to lodge in York Street.
Chaucer.

Stay and lodge by me this night.
Shak.

Something holy lodges in that breast.
Milton.

2.
To fall or lie down, as grass or grain, when overgrown or beaten down by the wind.
Mortimer.

3.
To come to a rest; to stop and remain; to become stuck or caught; as, the bullet lodged in the bark of a tree; a piece of meat lodged in his throat.


word: Lodge₃
definition:
Lodge

Lodge
v. t.
[OE. loggen, OF. logier, F. loger. See Lodge, n. ]
1.
To give shelter or rest to; especially, to furnish a sleeping place for; to harbor; to shelter; hence, to receive; to hold.

Every house was proud to lodge a knight.
Dryden.

The memory can lodge a greater store of images than all the senses can present at one time.
Cheyne.

2.
To drive to shelter; to track to covert.

The deer is lodged; I have tracked her to her covert.
Addison.

3.
To deposit for keeping or preservation; as, the men lodged their arms in the arsenal.

4.
To cause to stop or rest in; to implant.

He lodged an arrow in a tender breast.
Addison.

5.
To lay down; to prostrate.

Though bladed corn be lodged, and trees blown down.
Shak.

6.
To present or bring (information, a complaint) before a court or other authority; as, to lodge a complaint.

To lodge an information, to enter a formal complaint.


word: Lodgeable
definition:
Lodgeable

Lodge"a*ble
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. logeable.]
1.
That may be or can be lodged; as, so many persons are not lodgeable in this village.

2.
Capable of affording lodging; fit for lodging in.
[R.]
lodgeable
Jeffrey.


word: Lodged
definition:
Lodged

Lodged
(?)
a.
(Her.)
Lying down; -- used of beasts of the chase, as couchant is of beasts of prey.


word: lodgepole pine
definition:
lodgepole pine

lodgepole pine
n.
A tall, narrow 2-needled pine (Pinus contorta) of the coastal Northwestern U. S., having a red to yellow-brown bark fissured into small squares and bearing egg-shaped cones.

Syn. -- shore pine, lodgepole pine, spruce pine, Pinus contorta.


word: Lodger
definition:
Lodger

Lodg"er
(?)
n.
One who, or that which, lodges; one who occupies a hired room in another's house.


word: Lodging
definition:
Lodging

Lodg"ing
n.
1.
The act of one who, or that which, lodges.

2.
A place of rest, or of temporary habitation; esp., a sleeping apartment; -- often in the plural with a singular meaning.
Gower.

Wits take lodgings in the sound of Bow.
Pope.

3.
Abiding place; harbor; cover.

Fair bosom . . . the lodging of delight.
Spenser.

Lodging house, a house where lodgings are provided and let. -- Lodging room, a room in which a person lodges, esp. a hired room.


