Glossary
If you are looking for a word and it doesn't appear in the Glossary, this will be because it has the same sense in Modern English, and can be found in any general dictionary. We only include words that no longer exist in Modern English, have changed their meaning since Shakespeare's day, or have an encyclopedic or specialized sense that would make them unfamiliar to many modern readers. Under this last heading, we include all the proper names (such as figures in classical mythology and local place-names) listed in our Themes and Topics (see Starting Points above).

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z
baby (n.)
doll see also clout (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
baccare, backare (v.)
[mock Latin] back, stand back, give place Headword location(s)
bacchanal (n.) Old form(s): Backenals
dance in honour of Bacchus [god of wine] see also Bacchus (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
Bacchanal (n.) Old form(s): Bachanal
devotee of Bacchus, the god of wine and inspiration see also Classical mythology Headword location(s)
Bacchus (n.)
Roman god of wine, associated with drunken revelry see also Gods and goddesses Headword location(s)
Bacchus (n.)
Roman god of wine, associated with drunken revelry see also Bacchanal (n.) 2 Headword location(s)
bachelor (n.) Old form(s): Batchellers
unmarried person [man or woman] Headword location(s)
bachelor (n.)
young man Headword location(s)
back (n.) Old form(s): backe
support, back-up, reserve Headword location(s)
back (v.) Old form(s): back'd, backe , backt
ride, mount, sit on Headword location(s)
back (v.) Old form(s): back'd , backst , backt
support, help, back up Headword location(s)
back, to the Old form(s): backe
through and through Headword location(s)
backare (v.)
[mock Latin] back, stand back, give place see also baccare (v.) Headword location(s)
backbite (v.) Old form(s): backe-bite
slander, revile, speak badly [of someone] Headword location(s)
backfriend (n.) Old form(s): back friend
false friend, someone who gives a pat on the back in an apparently friendly way Headword location(s)
backing (n.)
backing up, being in support Headword location(s)
backside (n.) Old form(s): Backe-side
back streets, lesser-used thoroughfares Headword location(s)
backsword (adj.) Old form(s): Back-Sword
a basket-hilted sword with a single-edged blade and a thin back; later, a sword-like stick with a basketwork hilt, used in fencing practice see also Weapons Headword location(s)
back-trick (n.) Old form(s): backe-tricke
type of backwards dance leap Headword location(s)
backward (n.)
past portion, earlier part, bygone period Headword location(s)
backwardly (adv.)
unfavourably, in a lowly manner; also: in reverse order of priority Headword location(s)
bacon (n.)
porker, fat one; also: rustic Headword location(s)
bacon-fed (adj.)
[= fed on bacon] rustic, peasant, hillbilly Headword location(s)
bad (adj.)
worthless, lowly, of no value see also worse (adj.) Headword location(s)
bad (adj.)
worthless, lowly, of no value see also worst (n.) Headword location(s)
bad (adj.)
worthless, lowly, of no value see also worst (adj.) Headword location(s)
bade (v.)
past form of 'bid' see also bid (v.) Headword location(s)
badge (n.)
outward sign, symbol, mark Headword location(s)
badge (n.)
livery, insignia of employment Headword location(s)
badge (n.)
crest, emblem Headword location(s)
badge (v.) Old form(s): badg'd
mark [as if by a badge], stain Headword location(s)
baffle (v.) Old form(s): baffel'd
[of a knight] publicly disgrace, treat with infamy Headword location(s)
baffle (v.) Old form(s): baffel'd
treat shamefully, expose to ridicule Headword location(s)
bag (n.)
money-bag, purse Headword location(s)
baggage (n.)
good-for-nothing woman, harlot Headword location(s)
bagpipe (n.)
windbag, verbose speaker Headword location(s)
bail (n.) Old form(s): baile, bayle
security for release, guarantee of freedom Headword location(s)
bail (v.) Old form(s): bale
confine, enclose Headword location(s)
bail (v.) Old form(s): baile
obtain release for, give freedom to Headword location(s)
bailiff (n.) Old form(s): Bayliffe
sheriff's officer who serves writs, carries out arrests, etc Headword location(s)
baille (v.)
give Headword location(s)
bait (n.) Old form(s): Baite
temptation, lure, enticement Headword location(s)
bait (n.)
morsel, snack, titbit Headword location(s)
bait (v.) Old form(s): baite
tempt, entice, lure Headword location(s)
bait (v.) Old form(s): baite , bate , bayts
harass, persecute, torment Headword location(s)
bait (v.)
drink, take refreshment Headword location(s)
baiting-place (n.) Old form(s): bayting place
bear-baiting pit Headword location(s)
Bajazeth (n.)
[pron: 'bajazet] Ottoman sultan in 14th-c see also Historical figures Headword location(s)
bake (v.) Old form(s): bak'd
harden, make solid Headword location(s)
baked meats (n.) Old form(s): bakte meates, Bakt-meats
pies, pastries Headword location(s)
balance (n.) Old form(s): ballance
scales Headword location(s)
balance (n.) Old form(s): Ballance
weighing pan of a pair of scales Headword location(s)
balance (v.) Old form(s): ballance
add weight to, make up for Headword location(s)
bald (adj.)
trivial, foolish, witless Headword location(s)
bald (adj.)
bare-headed [as a sign of respect] Headword location(s)
baldric, baldrick (n.) Old form(s): baldricke, Bauldricke
leather shoulder belt, strap [for holding a bugle, sword, etc] see also Weapons Headword location(s)
bale (n.) Old form(s): baile
sorrow, pain, misfortune Headword location(s)
baleful (adj.) Old form(s): balefull
deadly, mortal, malignant Headword location(s)
balk, baulk (v.) Old form(s): Balk'd
fall on ridges between furrows; pile up in mounds Headword location(s)
balk, baulk (v.) Old form(s): Balke
argue over, quibble about Headword location(s)
balk, baulk (v.) Old form(s): bauk, baulkt
refuse, ignore, shirk, let slip Headword location(s)
ball (n.) Old form(s): Balles
royal golden orb Headword location(s)
ball (n.)
eyeball; also: cannon-ball Headword location(s)
ballad (v.)
make the subject of a song Headword location(s)
ballasting (n.)
weight [in rank], balance, sway Headword location(s)
ballet (n.)
ballad see also chanson (n.) Headword location(s)
ballow (n.)
cudgel, stick Headword location(s)
balm (n.) Old form(s): Balme
fragrant oil used for anointing, consecrated oil Headword location(s)
balm (n.) Old form(s): Balme
aromatic plant, fragrant herb Headword location(s)
balm (n.) Old form(s): Balme
soothing ointment, salve; soothing treatment Headword location(s)
balm (v.) Old form(s): Balme
soothe, relieve, heal Headword location(s)
balm (v.)
embalmed, anointed with fragrant oil Headword location(s)
balmy (adj.)
fragrant, delicious, sweet-smelling Headword location(s)
balmy (adj.) Old form(s): balmie
soothing, healing, restorative Headword location(s)
balsam (n.) Old form(s): Balsome
balm, soothing ointment, healing agent Headword location(s)
balsamum (n.) Old form(s): Balsamum
balm, balsam, aromatic oil Headword location(s)
ban (n.) Old form(s): Bannes
curse, malediction Headword location(s)
ban (v.) Old form(s): banne
curse, damn, revile Headword location(s)
ban (v.)
excommunicate, pronounce anathema Headword location(s)
Banbury (n.)
Oxfordshire town, known for its rich milk cheese about an inch thick see also Britain [outside London] Headword location(s)
bancrout, bankrout, bankerout (n./adj./v.) Old form(s): backrout , banckrout , bankrupt
bankrupt Headword location(s)
band (n.)
bond, obligation, tie Headword location(s)
band (n.)
body of men, troop Headword location(s)
band (n.)
company, society, fellowship Headword location(s)
band (n.)
bond, shackle, chain Headword location(s)
band (n.)
bond, promissory note, legal deed requiring payment Headword location(s)
band (n.)
neckband, collar, ruff Headword location(s)
bandetto, banditto (adj.)
bandit Headword location(s)
ban-dog (n.) Old form(s): Bandogs
chained dog, tethered hound Headword location(s)
bandy (v.) Old form(s): bandie
exchange, swap, send to and fro Headword location(s)
bandy (v.) Old form(s): bandie
band together, make a league, fight Headword location(s)
bandy (v.)
drive, strike, toss back Headword location(s)
bandying (n.)
verbal strife, exchange of words Headword location(s)
bane (n.)
murderer, killer, destroyer Headword location(s)
bane (n.) Old form(s): baine
ruin, woe, destruction Headword location(s)
bane (n.)
poison [from ‘ratsbane’] Headword location(s)
bane (v.) Old form(s): bain'd
poison, kill, put down Headword location(s)
bang (n.)
knock, blow, thump Headword location(s)
bank (n.) Old form(s): banckes , Banke , bankes
coast, shore see also sea-bank (n.) Headword location(s)
bank (n.) Old form(s): bancke , banckes , bankes
river bank Headword location(s)
bank (n.) Old form(s): banke
ant-hill Headword location(s)
bank (v.) Old form(s): bank'd
[unclear meaning] put in a bank, win; pass by [as in a boat] Headword location(s)
banket (n.)
refreshments, light meal, dessert see also banquet (n.) Headword location(s)
bankrout, bankerout (n.)
bankrupt see also bancrout (n.) Headword location(s)
banneret (n.) Old form(s): bannarets
standard of a knight entitled to lead his own body of troops Headword location(s)
banneret (n.)
small banner, ornamental streamer Headword location(s)
banning (adj.)
cursing, chiding Headword location(s)
banquet, banket (n.)
appetizer, first course, hors d'oeuvres Headword location(s)
banquet, banket (n.)
refreshments, light meal, dessert Headword location(s)
banquet, running Old form(s): Banket
light meal taken hurriedly, quickly served repast Headword location(s)
bar (n.) Old form(s): barres
objection, impediment Headword location(s)
bar (n.) Old form(s): Barre
tribunal, judgement place Headword location(s)
bar (n.) Old form(s): barre, Barres
obstruction, barrier, obstacle Headword location(s)
bar (n.) Old form(s): barres
lock, barrier, barricade Headword location(s)
bar (v.) Old form(s): barr'd, barre
keep out, exclude, prohibit Headword location(s)
bar (v.) Old form(s): barr'd, barre , barres
prevent, obstruct, block Headword location(s)
bar (v.) Old form(s): bard
forbid, deny, deprive [of] Headword location(s)
barbarism (n.) Old form(s): barbarisme
rudeness, churlishness Headword location(s)
barbarism (n.) Old form(s): Barbarisme
savagery, people in the most uncivilized state Headword location(s)
barbarism (n.) Old form(s): barbarisme
lack of culture, uncivilized ignorance Headword location(s)
Barbary (n.)
Barbary coast of N Africa, famous for its horses see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
Barbary cock-pigeon Old form(s): cocke-pidgeon
type of pigeon from the Barbary coast; [reputedly of Eastern men] man who jealously safeguards his wife see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
Barbary hen Old form(s): Barbarie Henne
guinea hen; or: prostitute see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
Barbason (n.)
[pron: 'bahrbason] in Christian tradition, the name of a devil see also Religious personalities and beings Headword location(s)
barbed (adj.)
armoured with barbs, protectively covered Headword location(s)
barber-monger (n.)
frequenter of the barber-shop Headword location(s)
bare (adj.)
mere, simple Headword location(s)
bare (adj.)
threadbare, shabby, ragged Headword location(s)
bare (adj.)
worthless, wretched; or: barefaced, shameless Headword location(s)
bare (adj.)
unsheathed, exposed Headword location(s)
bare (adj.)
unprotected, defenceless, without covering Headword location(s)
bare (adj.)
gaunt, lean, needy Headword location(s)
bare (n.)
bareness, unadorned state Headword location(s)
bare (v.) Old form(s): bar'de
shave, trim Headword location(s)
bare-bone (n.)
skinny person, fleshless one Headword location(s)
bare-boned (adj.) Old form(s): bare-bon'd
like a skeleton, fleshless Headword location(s)
bare-gnawn (adj.) Old form(s): bare-gnawne
totally consumed, worn away to nothing Headword location(s)
barely (adv.)
in bareness, exposed, without covering Headword location(s)
bareness (n.) Old form(s): barenesse
gauntness, leanness, thin condition Headword location(s)
Barfleur (n.)
[pron: bah'fler] Harfleur, Normandy, France; besieged by Henry V in 1415 see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
barful (adj.) Old form(s): barrefull
full of hindrances, with impediments Headword location(s)
Bargulus (n.)
Balkan pirate of Roman times see also Historical figures Headword location(s)
baring (n.)
removal, shaving off Headword location(s)
bark (v.) Old form(s): barke
strip the bark from, tear away see also barked (adj.) Headword location(s)
bark about (v.) Old form(s): bak'd
encrust, form a crust [cover as with tree-bark] Headword location(s)
bark, barque (n.) Old form(s): backe , Barke
ship, vessel Headword location(s)
barked (adj.) Old form(s): barkt
stripped, peeled bare, destroyed Headword location(s)
barky (adj.)
bark-covered Headword location(s)
barley broth (n.) Old form(s): Barly broth
ale [as given to horses] Headword location(s)
barley-break (n.) Old form(s): Barly breake
type of country game in which a couple occupies a den [nicknamed ‘hell’] in the centre of a [barley] field, and tries to catch other couples, who may separate [break] when about to be caught Headword location(s)
barm (n.) Old form(s): barme
froth on the top of fermenting ale Headword location(s)
barn (v.) Old form(s): barnes
store up in a barn, gather in Headword location(s)
barn, barne (n.)
child, baby Headword location(s)
barnacle (n.)
species of goose [believed to begin life as a shellfish] Headword location(s)
Barrabas (n.)
in the Bible, a robber released instead of Christ at the Passover see also Religious personalities and beings Headword location(s)
barren (adj.)
unresponsive, dull, apathetic Headword location(s)
barren (adj.)
stupid, empty-headed, dull Headword location(s)
barrenness (n.) Old form(s): barrennesse
area [of skin] worn dry and bare Headword location(s)
barren-spirited (adj.) Old form(s): barren spirited
dull-minded, lacking the spirit to respond Headword location(s)
barricado (n.) Old form(s): baricadoes
barricade, rampart, barrier Headword location(s)
barricado (v.) Old form(s): barracado
fortify, defend, protect [as with a barricade] Headword location(s)
barrow (n.)
barrowful, cartload Headword location(s)
Bartholomew (n.)
in Christian tradition, Saint Bartholomew's Day, 24 August see also Days and dates Headword location(s)
Bartholomew boar-pig Old form(s): Bartholmew Bore-pigge
pig sold at the annual London fair held on St Bartholomew's day see also Days and dates Headword location(s)
Bartholomew-tide (n.) Old form(s): Bartholomew-tyde
In Christian tradition, St Bartholomew's day see also Days and dates Headword location(s)
Basan, Hill of
in the Bible, an area noted for cattle see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
base (adj.)
dishonourable, low, unworthy see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
base (adj.)
non-precious, worthless, of low value Headword location(s)
base (adj.) Old form(s): bace
low-born, lowly, plebeian, of lower rank see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
base (adj.)
poor, wretched, of low quality see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
base (adj.)
low-lying, lowland Headword location(s)
base (n.)
[plural] type of knee-length skirt worn by a knight on horseback Headword location(s)
base (n.)
see also bid the base Headword location(s)
base (n.)
basis, foundation, cause Headword location(s)
base (n.)
pedestal Headword location(s)
base (n.)
foundation, supporting structure Headword location(s)
base (v.)
utter with bass voice, proclaim resonantly see also bass (v.) Headword location(s)
base viol (n.)
stringed instrument resembling a cello see also bass viol (n.) Headword location(s)
base-born (adj.) Old form(s): base-borne
of low birth, low-born, plebeian Headword location(s)
base-court (n.) Old form(s): base Court
[of a castle] lower courtyard, servants' courtyard Headword location(s)
baseless (adj.) Old form(s): baselesse
unsubstantial, lacking a foundation Headword location(s)
basely (adv.) Old form(s): baselie
dishonourably, shamefully, ignominiously Headword location(s)
baseness (n.) Old form(s): basenes , basenesse
socially inferior trait, plebeian quality Headword location(s)
baseness (n.) Old form(s): basenesse, basenesse
cowardice, degenerateness, degradation Headword location(s)
baseness (n.) Old form(s): basenes, basenesse
lowly activity, contemptible work Headword location(s)
baseness (n.) Old form(s): basenesse
debasement, lowly state, humiliation Headword location(s)
bashful (adj.) Old form(s): bashfull
easily intimidated, readily daunted Headword location(s)
Basilisco (n.)
[pron: basi'liskoh] knight character in a contemporary play, Solyman and Perseda see also Contemporary figures, factual and fictitious Headword location(s)
basilisk (n.) Old form(s): Basiliske, Basiliskes, Basilisque
mythical serpent which killed with its look Headword location(s)
basilisk (n.) Old form(s): Basiliskes
type of large cannon see also Weapons Headword location(s)
basis (n.)
base, foot, foundation Headword location(s)
basis (n.)
pedestal Headword location(s)
basket-hilt (n.)
sword hilt with protective steel basketwork see also Weapons Headword location(s)
bass viol, base viol (n.) Old form(s): Base-Viole
stringed instrument resembling a cello see also viol (n.) Headword location(s)
bass, base (v.)
utter with bass voice, proclaim resonantly Headword location(s)
bastard (adj.)
illegitimate, spurious, unauthorized Headword location(s)
bastard (adj.)
inferior, low, of little value Headword location(s)
bastard (n.)
variety of sweet Spanish wine Headword location(s)
bastard (n.)
hybrid, cross-breed, mixed variety Headword location(s)
bastard (n.)
low-born person Headword location(s)
bastardizing (n.)
being conceived as a bastard Headword location(s)
bastardly (adj.)
malapropism for ‘dastardly’ Headword location(s)
bastardy (n.) Old form(s): Bastardie
condition of illegitimacy Headword location(s)
baste (v.)
sew loosely, tack together, stitch up Headword location(s)
bastinado (n.)
cudgelling, beating with a stick [esp. on the soles of the feet] Headword location(s)
bat (n.)
cudgel, staff, stick Headword location(s)
batch (n.)
tumour, boil, ulcer see also botch (n.) 2 Headword location(s)
bate (n.)
discord, strife, quarrel Headword location(s)
bate (v.) Old form(s): baite
abate, modify, lessen see also abate (v.) 1 Headword location(s)
bate (v.)
omit, lose, leave out Headword location(s)
bate (v.)
lose weight, diminish in size Headword location(s)
bate (v.) Old form(s): baite, Bayted , bayting
[falconry] beat the wings, flutter Headword location(s)
bate (v.)
[of quantities] lessen, reduce, deduct Headword location(s)
bate (v.)
except, omit, leave out of consideration Headword location(s)
bate-breeding (adj.)
mischief-making, discord-raising see also breed-bate (n.) Headword location(s)
bated (adj.)
abated, lowered, diminished Headword location(s)
bateless (adj.) Old form(s): batelesse
unable to be blunted, permanently sharp Headword location(s)
bat-fowling (n.)
catching birds roosting at night, by hitting them with a club Headword location(s)
bath (det.)
Scottish pronunciation of 'both' see also Scottish Headword location(s)
batler, batlet (n.)
wooden club [used for beating clothes being washed] Headword location(s)
battalia (n.) Old form(s): Battaliaes
large body of troops arrayed for battle, marshalled force Headword location(s)
batten (v.)
glut oneself, grow fat on Headword location(s)
battery (n.) Old form(s): batterie , Batt'ry
assault, bombardment, blitz Headword location(s)
battery (n.) Old form(s): battrie , battry, batt'ry
breach, entry Headword location(s)
battle (n.)
in the phrase 'strike a battle' see also strike (v.) 1 Headword location(s)
battle (n.) Old form(s): Battaile , Battailes, Battell, battells , Battels
army, fighting force, battalion Headword location(s)
battle (n.) Old form(s): battels
hostile encounter, force Headword location(s)
battle (n.) Old form(s): Battaile, battailes , Battell
battle array, war formation, ranks of soldiers Headword location(s)
battle (n.) Old form(s): battaile
single combat, individual fight Headword location(s)
battled (adj.) Old form(s): battaild
in battalions, with deployed troops Headword location(s)
batty (adj.) Old form(s): Battie
bat-like Headword location(s)
bauble (adj.)
like a toy, paltry, insignificant Headword location(s)
bauble (n.)
toy, plaything Headword location(s)
bauble (n.) Old form(s): bable
piece of rubbish, worthless trifle Headword location(s)
bauble (n.) Old form(s): bable
decorated rod of office, fool's staff Headword location(s)
baubling, bawbling (adj.)
contemptible, trifling, piddling Headword location(s)
baulk (v.)
refuse; argue over; pile up see also balk, baulk (v.) 1 Headword location(s)
bavian (n.) Old form(s): Baum
baboon, ape Headword location(s)
bavin (adj.) Old form(s): Bauin
[made of] firewood, kindling wood Headword location(s)
bawcock (n.)
[fine bird] fine fellow, good chap see also Address forms Headword location(s)
bawd (n.) Old form(s): baud, Baudes, Bauds , Bawde, Bawdes
pimp, procurer, pander, go-between see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
bawdry (n.) Old form(s): baudrey, Baudry
bawdiness, lewdness, obscenity Headword location(s)
bawdy (adj.)
filthy, obscene, abominable Headword location(s)
bawdy-house (n.) Old form(s): bawdie houses, Bawdie-houses
brothel Headword location(s)
bay (n.) Old form(s): Bayes
fame, renown [i.e. laurel wreath] Headword location(s)
bay (n.)
baying, barking, howling Headword location(s)
bay (n.) Old form(s): baie
[hunting] last stand, point of capture Headword location(s)
bay (n.)
living area divided off within a house, gable-end Headword location(s)
bay (n.) Old form(s): baies, Bayes
leaf of the bay-tree [used as a herb; symbol of triumph] Headword location(s)
bay (v.)
bark at, howl at Headword location(s)
bay (v.) Old form(s): bay'd
bring to bay, drive to a last stand Headword location(s)
bay about (v.)
bring to bay, surround Headword location(s)
Bayard (n.)
[pron: 'bayahd] magic horse given by Charlemagne to Rinaldo (Renaud), one of the four sons of Aimon; a symbol of blind recklessness see also Non-classical legend, romance, and folklore Headword location(s)
be
Irish pronunciation of 'by' see also Irish Headword location(s)
be (v.)
become, come to be Headword location(s)
be (v.)
intend, purpose, be determined Headword location(s)
be (v.)
represent, speak for Headword location(s)
be (v.)
be alive, live Headword location(s)
be off (v.)
doff the hat Headword location(s)
beached (adj.)
having a beach, shingly, sandy Headword location(s)
beachy (adj.) Old form(s): beachie
pebble-covered, shingly Headword location(s)
bead (n.) Old form(s): Beades
[plural] rosary beads Headword location(s)
bead (n.)
tiny thing, smallest of objects Headword location(s)
bead (n.)
drop of liquid, tear-drop Headword location(s)
beadle (n.)
parish constable Headword location(s)
beadle (n.)
punisher, chastiser, castigator Headword location(s)
beadsman (n.) Old form(s): beades-man, Beads-men
almsman, pensioner [who prays for others] Headword location(s)
beak (n.) Old form(s): Beake
bow, prow, front see also Ships Headword location(s)
beam (n.) Old form(s): beame
cross-bar [on a scales] Headword location(s)
beam (n.) Old form(s): beame, beames
reach, range, line [of the eye, thought of as emitting beams of light] Headword location(s)
beam (n.) Old form(s): beame
wooden roller in a loom Headword location(s)
beam (n.) Old form(s): Beame
balance, scales, counterpoise Headword location(s)
beam (n.) Old form(s): beame
large wooden staff, lance, club Headword location(s)
beam (n.) Old form(s): Beame
large object, huge thing see also mote (n.) Headword location(s)
Bear (n.)
the Little Bear, Ursa Minor see also Cosmos Headword location(s)
bear (v.), past forms bore, borne Old form(s): beare
bear in mind, keep note of Headword location(s)
bear (v.), past forms bore, borne Old form(s): beare
sustain, carry through, keep going Headword location(s)
bear (v.), past forms bore, borne Old form(s): beare , beares
carry on, manage, conduct [an affair] Headword location(s)
bear (v.), past forms bore, borne Old form(s): Beare
steer, sail towards Headword location(s)
bear (v.), past forms bore, borne Old form(s): beare
behave, look, conduct [oneself] Headword location(s)
bear (v.), past forms bore, borne Old form(s): beare , beares
keep, present, show Headword location(s)
bear (v.), past forms bore, borne Old form(s): beare, beares
tolerate, endure, put up with Headword location(s)
bear (v.), past forms bore, borne Old form(s): beare
take, carry Headword location(s)
bear (v.), past forms bore, borne Old form(s): beare
bring forth, produce, yield Headword location(s)
bear (v.), past forms bore, borne Old form(s): beares
control, manage, take charge of Headword location(s)
bear (v.), past forms bore, borne Old form(s): beares
carry [a rider], support Headword location(s)
bear (v.), past forms bore, borne Old form(s): beare
carry away, take as a companion Headword location(s)
bear (v.), past forms bore, borne Old form(s): beare
be endowed with, have, possess Headword location(s)
bear (v.), past forms bore, borne Old form(s): beare
escort, accompany, go along with Headword location(s)
bear away (v.) Old form(s): beares
leave, sail away Headword location(s)
bear back (v.) Old form(s): beare backe
move back, go back Headword location(s)
bear down (v.) Old form(s): beare downe , beares downe
overwhelm, put down, overcome Headword location(s)
bear hard Old form(s): beare
bear ill will towards, feel resentment against Headword location(s)
bear in hand
profess, pretend, purport Headword location(s)
bear in hand Old form(s): beare , beares
abuse, take advantage of, delude, deceive Headword location(s)
bear in hand Old form(s): beare
encourage with false hopes, foster expectation in Headword location(s)
bear off (v.) Old form(s): beare
ward off, keep away, repel Headword location(s)
bear out (v.) Old form(s): beare
help out, support, back up Headword location(s)
bear out (v.)
undertake, carry on, conduct Headword location(s)
bear out (v.) Old form(s): beare , beare out, beares
endure, weather, cope [with] Headword location(s)
bear out (v.) Old form(s): beare
support, authorize, sanction Headword location(s)
bear up (v.) Old form(s): beare vp
stay upright, not fall down Headword location(s)
bear up (v.) Old form(s): borne vp
sustain, support, uphold Headword location(s)
bearard (n.)
bear-keeper, bear-handler [for dancing or baiting] see also bearherd (n.) Headword location(s)
beard (v.)
defy, affront, oppose openly Headword location(s)
beard, in his
to his face, openly Headword location(s)
bearer (n.)
possessor, owner, holder Headword location(s)
bearherd, bear-herd, bearard, bearward, berrord (n.) Old form(s): Beare-heard, Berard , Berrord
bear-keeper, bear-handler [for dancing or baiting] Headword location(s)
bearing (adj.)
child-bearing, of labour Headword location(s)
bearing (n.)
carrying of hardships, enduring of woes Headword location(s)
bearing-cloth (n.) Old form(s): bearing Cloth,, bearing-cloath
christening garment, baptismal shawl Headword location(s)
bearward (n.)
bear-keeper, bear-handler [for dancing or baiting] see also bearherd, bear-herd, bearard, bearward, berrord (n.) Headword location(s)
beast (n.)
mere animal Headword location(s)
beastly (adj.)
beast-like, brutish, abominable Headword location(s)
beastly (adv.)
like an animal, in a beastly manner Headword location(s)
beat (v.)
drive, force, impel Headword location(s)
beat (v.) Old form(s): beate
[falconry] beat the wings, flap wildly Headword location(s)
beat (v.) Old form(s): beates
hammer away, ponder furiously Headword location(s)
beat (v.) Old form(s): beates
strike Headword location(s)
beat on / upon (v.) Old form(s): beates
be obsessed by, be preoccupied with Headword location(s)
beaten (adj.)
well-tried, well-trodden Headword location(s)
beating (adj.)
battering, thumping, blow-by-blow Headword location(s)
beauty (v.)
beautify, embellish, adorn Headword location(s)
beauty-waning (adj.) Old form(s): Beautie-waining
of fading looks, of diminishing beauty Headword location(s)
beaver (n.) Old form(s): Beauer , Beauers , Beuer
visor of a helmet, face-guard see also Body-armour Headword location(s)
because (conj.)
so that, in order that Headword location(s)
bechance (v.) Old form(s): bechaunc'd , bechaunce
happen to, befall Headword location(s)
beck (n.) Old form(s): becke
beckoning, command, call Headword location(s)
beck (n.) Old form(s): beckes
bow, curtsy, gesture of respect Headword location(s)
beck (v.) Old form(s): beck'd
beckon, nod, call Headword location(s)
becking (n.)
beckoning, calling, nodding [to action] Headword location(s)
beckon (v.)
make a significant gesture to, signal Headword location(s)
beckoning (n.) Old form(s): beckning
signal, significant gesture, meaningful sign Headword location(s)
become (v.) Old form(s): becom , becomming , becoms
be fitting, befit, be appropriate to see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
become (v.) Old form(s): becom, becom'd , becomming , becoms
grace, honour, dignify see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
become (v.) Old form(s): becom
put a good front on, give a pleasing appearance to Headword location(s)
become (v.)
bear, handle, present Headword location(s)
become (v.)
come to (be), to be found, reach Headword location(s)
becomed (adj.)
becoming, befitting, appropriate Headword location(s)
becoming (n.) Old form(s): becommings
grace, quality, befitting action Headword location(s)
bedashed (adj.) Old form(s): bedash'd
dashed about, bespattered, splashed about Headword location(s)
bedazzle (v.) Old form(s): bedazled
confuse by dazzling Headword location(s)
bed-blotting (adj.) Old form(s): bed blotting
polluting the marriage bed Headword location(s)
bedded (adj.)
smooth-lying, laid flat Headword location(s)
bedded (adj.)
smoothed, dressed; or: fixed in a setting Headword location(s)
bedew (v.)
moisten with drops, wet with tears Headword location(s)
bedfellow (n.) Old form(s): bedfellowes
intimate companion Headword location(s)
bed-hanger (n.)
hanging tapestry for a four-poster bed Headword location(s)
bedim (v.) Old form(s): bedymn'd
make dim, cover with cloud Headword location(s)
bedlam (adj.) Old form(s): Bedlem
mad, crazed, frantic Headword location(s)
bedlam (n.)
mad beggar, madman/woman, lunatic see also Tom o'Bedlam (n.) Headword location(s)
Bedlam (n./adj.) Old form(s): Bedlem
colloquial form of Bethlehem Hospital for the insane, in London see also London Headword location(s)
bed-presser (n.)
sluggard, lazy fellow Headword location(s)
bedred (adj.)
bed-ridden, confined to bed through infirmity see also bedrid (adj.) Headword location(s)
bedrench (v.)
drench thoroughly, soak, saturate Headword location(s)
bedrid, bed-rid, bedred (adj.)
bed-ridden, confined to bed through infirmity Headword location(s)
bed-right (n.)
consummation, conjugal rights Headword location(s)
bed-swerver (n.) Old form(s): Bed-swaruer
person unfaithful to the marriage-bed, adulterer/adulteress Headword location(s)
bed-vow (n.)
marriage vow Headword location(s)
bedward, to
showing the way towards bed Headword location(s)
beefs (n.) Old form(s): Beefes, Beeues
fat cattle, oxen Headword location(s)
beef-witted (adj.) Old form(s): beefe-witted
beef-brained, thick-headed, brainless Headword location(s)
Beelzebub, Belzebub (n.)
[pron: bee'elzebub, 'belzebub] in Christian tradition, the Devil; or, a principal devil see also Religious personalities and beings Headword location(s)
beer / ale, small Old form(s): Beere
weak beer, beer of poor quality Headword location(s)
beer / ale, small Old form(s): Beere
trivialities, trifles, matters of little consequence Headword location(s)
beesome (adj.)
blear-eyed, half-blind see also bisson (adj.) Headword location(s)
beest (v.)
2nd person singular, present tense of 'be' see also Verb forms Headword location(s)
beest-eating (adj.) Old form(s): beast eating
drinking the milk produced after the birth of a calf [considered undrinkable, except by rustics] Headword location(s)
beetle (adj.)
overhanging, prominent, bushy Headword location(s)
beetle (n.)
sledge-hammer, heavy ram Headword location(s)
beetle (v.)
overhang, project [like threatening eyebrows] Headword location(s)
beetle-headed (adj.)
thick-headed, doltish Headword location(s)
befall (v.), past forms befallen, befell Old form(s): befalne
happen, occur, take place, turn out see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
befall (v.), past forms befallen, befell Old form(s): befalne , befals
happen to, come to see also Exclamations Headword location(s)
befall (v.), past forms befallen, befell Old form(s): befalne , befals
happen to, come to see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
befall (v.), past forms befallen, befell Old form(s): befalne , befals
happen to, come to see also Greetings Headword location(s)
befall of (v.) Old form(s): befalne
become of, happen to Headword location(s)
before (adv.)
just now, a little while ago Headword location(s)
before (adv.)
ahead, in advance Headword location(s)
before (adv.)
in the front Headword location(s)
before (adv.)
[in relation to God] in support, on one's side Headword location(s)
before-breach (n.) Old form(s): before breach
previous breaking, earlier violation see also breach (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
beforehand (adv.) Old form(s): before hand
in advance, at an earlier point Headword location(s)
before-time (adv.) Old form(s): Before time
formerly, previously, earlier Headword location(s)
befortune (v.)
befall, happen, come upon Headword location(s)
beg (v.)
become a beggar Headword location(s)
beg (v.)
plead to put in care; treat as a fool Headword location(s)
beget (v.), past form begot
obtain, develop, nurture Headword location(s)
beget (v.), past form begot
give birth to, father, conceive Headword location(s)
beget (v.), past form begot
produce, engender, give rise to Headword location(s)
beget (v.), past form begot
get, occasion, breed [for] Headword location(s)
beggar (v.) Old form(s): begger'd
reduce to beggary, impoverish, make destitute Headword location(s)
beggar (v.) Old form(s): beggerd
use up all the resources of, exhaust Headword location(s)
beggar (v.) Old form(s): Begger
rate as worthless, esteem to be of no value Headword location(s)
beggar (v.) Old form(s): Beggard, Beggerd
impoverish, exhaust, drain Headword location(s)
beggared (adj.) Old form(s): begger'd
impoverished, destitute, depleted Headword location(s)
beggar-fear (n.) Old form(s): beggar-feare
fear that a beggar would show Headword location(s)
beggarly (adj.) Old form(s): beggerly
in the manner of a beggar, effusive Headword location(s)
beggarly (adj.) Old form(s): beggerly
destitute, impoverished, poverty-stricken Headword location(s)
beggary (n.) Old form(s): Beggery
beggarliness, niggardliness, meanness Headword location(s)
begird (v.), past form begirt Old form(s): beguirt , begyrt
surround, encircle, besiege see also gird (v.) 1 Headword location(s)
begnaw (v.) Old form(s): begnawne
gnaw away, eat away, chew Headword location(s)
beguild (v.)
[unclear meaning] beguile see also beguile (v.) 1 Headword location(s)
beguile (v.) Old form(s): beguild, beguil'd , beguilde
cheat, deceive, trick Headword location(s)
beguile (v.) Old form(s): beguild
charm away, while away, pass pleasantly Headword location(s)
beguile (v.) Old form(s): beguild , be-guil'd , beguil'd
charm, captivate, bewitch Headword location(s)
beguile (v.)
coax, draw from, charm from Headword location(s)
beguile (v.)
divert attention from, disguise Headword location(s)
beguile (v.)
deprive by deception, cheat out of Headword location(s)
beguiling (n.)
deception, deceit, trickery Headword location(s)
behalf (n.), especially: in behalf (of) Old form(s): behalfe
respect, aspect, consideration Headword location(s)
behalf (n.), especially: in behalf (of) Old form(s): behalfe
advantage, interest, benefit Headword location(s)
behalf (n.), especially: in behalf (of) Old form(s): behalfe
name, right, title Headword location(s)
behaviour (n.) Old form(s): behauiour
person, embodiment, personification Headword location(s)
behaviour (n.) Old form(s): Behauiour
courtly behaviour, fine manners, etiquette Headword location(s)
behest (n.) Old form(s): behestes
command, bidding, decree Headword location(s)
behind (adv.) Old form(s): behinde
in the back Headword location(s)
behind (adv.) Old form(s): behinde
still to come, to follow Headword location(s)
behindhand (adj.) Old form(s): behind-hand
backward, tardy, sluggish Headword location(s)
behold (v.)
observe, regard, maintain see also Attention signals Headword location(s)
beholden (adj.)
indebted, under an obligation Headword location(s)
beholding (adj.) Old form(s): behoulding
beholden, obliged, indebted Headword location(s)
beholding (n.)
sight Headword location(s)
beholding (n.)
regard, attention, contemplation Headword location(s)
behoof (n.) Old form(s): behoofe
benefit, advantage Headword location(s)
behoofeful (adj.)
see also behoveful (adj.) Headword location(s)
behove (n.) Old form(s): behoue
benefit, advantage, gain Headword location(s)
behove (v.) Old form(s): Behooues , behoue , behoues
befits, be appropriate to, be due to Headword location(s)
behove (v.) Old form(s): behooue
moderate the need for, keep under control Headword location(s)
behoveful, behoofeful (adj.) Old form(s): behoouefull
needful, necessary, useful Headword location(s)
behowl (v.)
howl at, bay, cry out to Headword location(s)
being (n.)
lodging, dwelling-place Headword location(s)
being (n.)
physical existence, life Headword location(s)
being that (conj.)
since, seeing that Headword location(s)
Bel (n.)
Babylonian god, in the Bible discredited by Daniel see also Gods and goddesses Headword location(s)
belch (v.)
give vent to, discharge, emit Headword location(s)
belching (adj.)
spouting, spurting Headword location(s)
beldam, beldame (n.)
hag, witch, loathsome old woman Headword location(s)
beldam, beldame (n.)
grandmother, aged matron Headword location(s)
beldam, beldame (n.) Old form(s): Beldames
old woman, crone Headword location(s)
be-lee (v.)
cut off from the wind, make helpless see also lee (v.) Headword location(s)
Belgia (n.)
[before 1609] present-day Netherlands, Belgium, and parts of nearby France see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
belie (v.) Old form(s): belye
fill with lies, deceive, delude Headword location(s)
belie (v.) Old form(s): be lyde, beli'd , bely , belye , belyed
slander, tell lies about Headword location(s)
belief (n.) Old form(s): beleefe
opinion, awareness, impression Headword location(s)
belike (adv.) Old form(s): Be like , be-like
probably, presumably, perhaps, so it seems see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
bell (n.)
death-knell Headword location(s)
bellman (n.) Old form(s): Bell-man
bell-ringer who announces an impending death [as of a condemned prisoner] Headword location(s)
Bellona (n.)
[pron: bel'ohna] Roman goddess of war see also Gods and goddesses Headword location(s)
bell-wether (n.) Old form(s): Bell-weather, Belweather
leading sheep of a flock [wearing a bell]; cuckold [of a ram, because horned] Headword location(s)
belly (n.)
womb, uterus Headword location(s)
belly doublet
doublet with the lower part padded see also thin-belly (adj.) Headword location(s)
belly doublet
doublet with the lower part padded see also great-belly (adj.) Headword location(s)
belly-god (n.) Old form(s): belly god
someone who makes a god of the belly, guzzler Headword location(s)
belly-pinched (adj.)
pinched with hunger, starving Headword location(s)
belock (v.) Old form(s): belockt
lock up, hold tight, intertwine Headword location(s)
belong (v.)
be the duty of, pertain to Headword location(s)
belonging (n.)
equipment, trappings Headword location(s)
belonging (n.)
attribute, capability, personal quality Headword location(s)
beloving (adj.) Old form(s): belouing
loving, devoted Headword location(s)
below (adv.)
on the lower stage see also Stage directions Headword location(s)
Belzebub (n.)
[pron: 'belzebub] in Christian tradition, the Devil; or, a principal devil see also Beelzebub, Belzebub (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
bemadding (adj.)
making mad, maddening Headword location(s)
bemeet (v.) Old form(s): be-met
meet with, encounter Headword location(s)
bemete, be-mete (v.)
measure; also: mete out punishment Headword location(s)
bemoaning (adj.) Old form(s): bemoning
lamenting, plaintive, sorrowful Headword location(s)
bemock (v.) Old form(s): Bemocke
mock at, taunt, flout Headword location(s)
bemocked-at (adj.) Old form(s): bemockt-at
mocked, scorned, derided Headword location(s)
bemoil (v.) Old form(s): bemoil'd
cover with dirt, bemire Headword location(s)
bemonster, be-monster (v.)
make monstrous, deform, pervert Headword location(s)
ben venuto (n.) Old form(s): Been, bien vonuto
warm welcome Headword location(s)
bench (n.)
governing body, court of justice Headword location(s)
bench (v.) Old form(s): Bench'd
give a position of honour, place in authority Headword location(s)
bench (v.)
take a seat on the bench Headword location(s)
bencher (n.)
jurist, magistrate, statesman Headword location(s)
bench-hole (n.)
privy hole, lavatory Headword location(s)
bend (n.)
movement, bending motion, posture Headword location(s)
bend (n.)
glance, gaze, turning in a particular direction Headword location(s)
bend (v.)
change, alter, turn in a new direction Headword location(s)
bend (v.)
[of brows] knit, wrinkle, frown Headword location(s)
bend (v.)
aim, direct, level, turn Headword location(s)
bend (v.)
give way, bow, submit Headword location(s)
bend (v.)
turn, direct one's steps, proceed Headword location(s)
bend up (v.) Old form(s): vp
exert, strain, wind up Headword location(s)
bending (adj.)
overhanging, jutting, curved Headword location(s)
bending (adj.)
bowing, reverential, respectful Headword location(s)
beneath (adj.)
lower, earthly Headword location(s)
benedicite (Latin v.)
[pron: bene'diysitee] may God be with you Headword location(s)
benediction (n.)
blessing, spiritual gift Headword location(s)
benediction (n.)
blessing, happiness, prosperity Headword location(s)
benefactor (n.)
malapropism for ‘malefactor’ Headword location(s)
benefice (n.)
ecclesiastical living, church appointment Headword location(s)
benefit (n.)
privilege, right, prerogative Headword location(s)
benefit (n.)
bounty, benefaction, bestowal of rights [from a feudal lord] Headword location(s)
benefit (n.)
agency, help, means Headword location(s)
benefit (n.)
profit, gain, return Headword location(s)
benefit (n.)
quality, advantage, gift Headword location(s)
benet, be-net (v.)
ensnare, enmesh, catch in a net Headword location(s)
benevolence (n.) Old form(s): beneuolences
forced loan, imposed contribution Headword location(s)
benison (n.) Old form(s): Benizon, benyson
blessing, benediction Headword location(s)
Bennet, Saint
medieval name of Benedict; [in TN V.i.36) a church name see also Religious personalities and beings Headword location(s)
bent (adj.)
determined, intent, resolved Headword location(s)
bent (adj.)
frowning, angry, glowering Headword location(s)
bent (adj.)
ready for firing, tensioned for action Headword location(s)
bent (adj.)
inclined, willing, ready Headword location(s)
bent (n.)
degree, capacity, extent [to which a bow can be bent] Headword location(s)
bent (n.)
direction, turning, inclination Headword location(s)
bent (n.)
curve, bend, arch Headword location(s)
bent (n.)
disposition, constitution, temperament Headword location(s)
benumbed (adj.) Old form(s): benummed
paralysed, deprived of strength Headword location(s)
bepaint (v.)
cover over, colour, tinge Headword location(s)
bepray (v.)
pray Headword location(s)
bequeath (v.)
resign, give up, assign, hand over Headword location(s)
bequeath (n.)
bequest, legacy Headword location(s)
berattle (v.) Old form(s): be-ratled
rattle away on, fill with clamour Headword location(s)
beray (v.)
stain, defile, disfigure Headword location(s)
bereave (v.) Old form(s): bereaued , bereaues
take away [from], deprive, deny, rob Headword location(s)
bereave (v.) Old form(s): bereuad
plunder, ravage, devastate Headword location(s)
bereaved (adj.) Old form(s): bereaued
deprived, robbed, stolen Headword location(s)
Bergomask (n.)
in the manner of the people of Bergamo, N Italy see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
berhyme, be-rime (v.) Old form(s): berimd, berime
celebrate in rhyme, put into rhyme Headword location(s)
Bermoothes (n.)
[pron: ber'moothuhz] Bermuda Islands see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
berrord (n.)
bear-keeper, bear-handler [for dancing or baiting] see also bearherd (n.) Headword location(s)
bescreen (v.) Old form(s): bescreen'd
hide from sight, cover up Headword location(s)
beseech (n.)
beseeching, entreaty, petition Headword location(s)
beseech (v.)
see also Politeness Headword location(s)
beseeched (v.)
Irish pronunciation of 'besieged' see also Irish Headword location(s)
beseek (v.) Old form(s): beseeke
dialect form or malapropism for ‘beseech’ Headword location(s)
beseem (v.) Old form(s): beseeme , beseemes
befit, be fitting [for], be seemly [for] Headword location(s)
beseeming (adj.)
looking, appearing see also ill-beseeming (adj.) Headword location(s)
beseeming (adj.)
looking, appearing see also well-beseeming (adj.) Headword location(s)
beseeming (adj.)
looking, appearing see also grave-beseeming (adj.) Headword location(s)
beseeming (n.)
appearance, look Headword location(s)
beset (v.)
set upon, assail, besiege Headword location(s)
beshrew, 'shrew (v.) Old form(s): beshrow
curse, devil take, evil befall see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
beshrew, 'shrew (v.) Old form(s): beshrow
curse, devil take, evil befall see also Swearing Headword location(s)
beshrew, 'shrew (v.)
blame, censure, take to task, wish mischief on Headword location(s)
beside (adv.)
passing by, to one side Headword location(s)
beside (adv.)
to the side, from that path Headword location(s)
beside (adv.)
besides, in addition Headword location(s)
beside (adv.)
otherwise, else Headword location(s)
beside (prep.)
by the side of Headword location(s)
besides (prep.)
beside, beyond Headword location(s)
besiege (n.) Old form(s): beseege
siege, besieging Headword location(s)
beslubber (v.)
besmear, bedaub, spread thickly Headword location(s)
besmear (v.) Old form(s): besmear'd , besmeare
defile, sully, tarnish Headword location(s)
besmear (v.) Old form(s): besmear'd, besmeare
smear over, bedaub Headword location(s)
besmirch (v.) Old form(s): besmerch, besmyrcht
discolour, sully, stain Headword location(s)
besom (n.) Old form(s): Beesome
sweeping-brush, broom Headword location(s)
besonian, bezonian (n.) Old form(s): Bezonions
scoundrel, rogue, low fellow Headword location(s)
besort (n.)
retinue, entourage, suitable company Headword location(s)
besort (v.)
befit, suit, be suitable for Headword location(s)
bespeak (v.), past forms bespake, bespoke Old form(s): bespake , bespeake
address, speak to Headword location(s)
bespeak (v.), past forms bespake, bespoke Old form(s): bespeake
speak for, arrange for, claim Headword location(s)
bespeak (v.), past forms bespake, bespoke Old form(s): bespeake
ask for, order, request Headword location(s)
bespeak (v.), past forms bespake, bespoke
ask, request, entreat Headword location(s)
bespice (v.) Old form(s): be-spice
season with a spice; poison Headword location(s)
bespoke (v.)
past form of 'bespeak' see also bespeak (v.) Headword location(s)
best (adj.)
most appropriate, most suitable Headword location(s)
best (adj.)
at the highest point, in the best state Headword location(s)
best (adj.)
noblest, most eminent Headword location(s)
best (n.)
leading citizens Headword location(s)
best (n.)
highest ranking person, most eminent person see also meanest (n.) Headword location(s)
best (n.)
best period, heyday, high point Headword location(s)
best (n.)
victory, triumph, success Headword location(s)
best, at the
as well as one can, in the best possible way Headword location(s)
best, in all my
as far as I can, to the best of my ability Headword location(s)
best, in the
even at best Headword location(s)
Best, the (n.)
Jesus Christ Headword location(s)
best, thou wert / you were
you are best advised Headword location(s)
bestained (adj.)
stained all over, marked with stains Headword location(s)
best-boding (adj.) Old form(s): best boding
most favourable, most promising Headword location(s)
best-conditioned (adj.) Old form(s): best condition'd
best-natured, of finest character Headword location(s)
bestead, bested (adj.)
situated, prepared, placed Headword location(s)
bestir (v.) Old form(s): bestir'd , bestirre
arouse, rouse, make active Headword location(s)
best-moving (adj.) Old form(s): best mouing
most persuasive Headword location(s)
bestow (v.)
spend, employ, devote [to] Headword location(s)
bestow (v.)
give in marriage, match Headword location(s)
bestow (v.) Old form(s): bestow'd
accommodate, lodge, quarter Headword location(s)
bestow (v.)
place, locate, position Headword location(s)
bestow (v.)
give, provide, grant Headword location(s)
bestow (v.) Old form(s): bestowes
carry, bear, acquit, conduct Headword location(s)
bestow (v.) Old form(s): bestow'd
stow away, dispose of Headword location(s)
bestow (v.)
give as a gift [to], present [with] Headword location(s)
bestow (v.)
give out, distribute, deliver Headword location(s)
bestowing (n.)
use, function, employment Headword location(s)
bestowing (n.)
giving, benevolence, philanthropy Headword location(s)
bestraught (adj.)
bereft of wits, mad, out of one's mind Headword location(s)
bestrew (v.) Old form(s): bestrew'd , bestrow
strew, scatter, sprinkle Headword location(s)
bestrew (v.)
cover, lie spread over Headword location(s)
bestride (v.)
ride, mount, sit on Headword location(s)
bestride (v.)
stride across, step across Headword location(s)
bestride (v.) Old form(s): bestrid
stand over, protect, safeguard Headword location(s)
bestride (v.)
straddle, stand over with legs astride Headword location(s)
best-tempered (adj.) Old form(s): best temperd , best temper'd
most skilfully crafted, of the finest quality [as of metal] Headword location(s)
betake (v.) Old form(s): betooke
go, take oneself off, make one's way Headword location(s)
betake (v.)
entrust, commit, give in charge Headword location(s)
betake (v.)
resort, have recourse, commit oneself Headword location(s)
beteem, beteene (v.) Old form(s): Beteeme , beteene
allow, permit, let, grant Headword location(s)
beteene (v.)
allow, permit, let, grant see also beteem (v.) Headword location(s)
bethink (v.), past form bethought Old form(s): bethinke
call to mind, think about, consider, reflect see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
bethink (v.), past form bethought Old form(s): Bethinke
resolve, decide, have a mind Headword location(s)
bethink (v.), past form bethought Old form(s): bethinke
remember, recollect Headword location(s)
bethink (v.), past form bethought Old form(s): bethinke
devise, plan, think up Headword location(s)
bethinking (n.)
reflection, rumination, considering Headword location(s)
bethought (v.)
past form of 'bethink' see also bethink (v.) Headword location(s)
bethump (v.) Old form(s): bethumpt
thump soundly, pound, lambaste Headword location(s)
betide (v.)
happen, take place, befall Headword location(s)
betide (v.)
happen (to), befall, come (to) Headword location(s)
betime (adv.)
early, at an early hour Headword location(s)
betime (adv.)
in good time, early on Headword location(s)
betime (adv.)
at once, immediately Headword location(s)
betime (v.) Old form(s): be time
[unclear meaning] betide, befall, be appropriate Headword location(s)
betimes (adv.)
speedily, soon, in a short time Headword location(s)
betimes (adv.)
early in the morning, at an early hour Headword location(s)
betimes (adv.)
early in life Headword location(s)
betimes (adv.)
at once, forthwith, right now Headword location(s)
betossed (adj.)
tossed about, shaken up Headword location(s)
betray (v.)
disclose the secrets of, reveal the indiscretions of Headword location(s)
betray (v.)
give up, expose, lay open [especially: to punishment] Headword location(s)
betray (v.)
deceive, seduce, mislead Headword location(s)
betrim (v.)
trim about, array, embellish Headword location(s)
better (adj.)
higher-born, of greater social rank see also good (adj.) 9 Headword location(s)
better (n.)
readier, more willing Headword location(s)
better (v.)
excel, outstrip, have an advantage over Headword location(s)
bettered (adj.) Old form(s): better'd
more skilful, held to be better Headword location(s)
betumbled (adj.) Old form(s): betombled
disarranged, disordered, disturbed Headword location(s)
between (n.) Old form(s): betweene
interim, interval, meantime Headword location(s)
betwixt (prep.)
between Headword location(s)
bevel (adj.) Old form(s): beuel
crooked, slanting, sloping Headword location(s)
Bevis (n.)
[pron: 'bevis] medieval Saxon knight who conquered Ascapart, a giant, and made him his squire see also Non-classical legend, romance, and folklore Headword location(s)
bevy (n.) Old form(s): Beauy
company, circle, coterie Headword location(s)
bevy (n.) Old form(s): beavy, Beuy
company [of maidens], gathering Headword location(s)
beware (v.)
take care of, have a care for Headword location(s)
bewasted (adj.)
wasted away Headword location(s)
beweep (v.)
drowned in tears, wet with tears Headword location(s)
beweep (v.) Old form(s): beweepe
weep over, wet with tears Headword location(s)
bewet (adj.)
wet through Headword location(s)
bewhore (v.) Old form(s): bewhor'd
call a whore, make a whore of Headword location(s)
bewitchment (n.)
magical appeal, ability to charm Headword location(s)
bewray (v.) Old form(s): bewraid, bewraide, Bewray'd
betray, reveal, expose Headword location(s)
bewray (v.)
show, unmask, make known Headword location(s)
bezonian (n.)
scoundrel, rogue, low fellow see also besonian (n.) Headword location(s)
bias (adj.)
swollen like the biased side of a bowl Headword location(s)
bias (adv.)
awry, wrong, amiss Headword location(s)
bias (n.)
indirectness, obliqueness Headword location(s)
bias (n.) Old form(s): byas
[weighting in a bowl causing it to run obliquely] inclination, tendency, leaning Headword location(s)
bias-drawing (n.) Old form(s): bias drawing
turning away from the truth, crooked dealing Headword location(s)
bibble-babble (n.) Old form(s): bibble babble, pibble bable
chatter, gabble, empty talk Headword location(s)
bid (v.), past form bade
invite, ask, entice Headword location(s)
bid (v.), past form bade Old form(s): bad, badst
command, order, enjoin, tell Headword location(s)
bid (v.), past form bade Old form(s): bad , bad'st
pray, entreat, beg, ask Headword location(s)
bid (v.), past form bade
offer, challenge Headword location(s)
bid the base / bass
challenge someone to a chase [from ‘prisoner's base’, a boy's chasing game] Headword location(s)
biddy (n.)
chicken; chickabiddy [as childish form] see also Address forms Headword location(s)
bide (v.)
remain, persist, continue in being Headword location(s)
bide (v.)
face, await, undergo Headword location(s)
bide (v.) Old form(s): bid
endure, suffer, undergo Headword location(s)
bide (v.)
abide, dwell, live Headword location(s)
bide upon (v.) Old form(s): vpon
insist on, dwell on, maintain Headword location(s)
biding (n.)
place to stay, dwelling Headword location(s)
biding (n.)
place of rest, dwelling-place Headword location(s)
bifold, by-fold (adj.)
twofold, double Headword location(s)
big (adj.)
loud, vocal, noisy Headword location(s)
big (adj.) Old form(s): Bigge
pregnant [with], swollen Headword location(s)
big (adj.) Old form(s): bigge
arrogant, haughty, proud Headword location(s)
big (adv.) Old form(s): bigge
threateningly, violently, menacingly Headword location(s)
big (adv.) Old form(s): bigge
strongly, forcefully, with depth Headword location(s)
biggen (n.)
nightcap Headword location(s)
bigger-looked (adj.)
of more daunting appearance Headword location(s)
bigness (n.) Old form(s): bignesse
large size, good bulk Headword location(s)
bilbo (n.) Old form(s): Bilboe
sword [from Bilbao, noted for its flexibility] see also Weapons Headword location(s)
bilboes (n.)
shackles, fetters, manacles Headword location(s)
bile (n.)
older form of ‘boil’ see also byle (n.) Headword location(s)
bill (n.) Old form(s): bil
inventory, list, catalogue Headword location(s)
bill (n.) Old form(s): billes , bils
notice, label, proclamation, placard Headword location(s)
bill (n.) Old form(s): Billes, bils
[applied to various kinds of long-handled spear-like weapon] halberd; bill-hook see also Weapons Headword location(s)
bill (n.)
bill of exchange, money order Headword location(s)
bill (n.) Old form(s): billes
promissory note Headword location(s)
bill (n.)
dispatch, written order Headword location(s)
bill (n.)
note, document, memorandum Headword location(s)
bill (v.)
stroke beaks together [= show affection] Headword location(s)
billet (n.)
thick stick, cudgel Headword location(s)
billet (v.)
enrol, enter in a list Headword location(s)
billing (n.)
kissing, caressing [as doves] Headword location(s)
bind (v.), past form bound
oblige, make grateful, indebt Headword location(s)
bind (v.), past form bound
pledge, vow, be under obligation Headword location(s)
bind in (v.)
make fast, secure, surround Headword location(s)
bind up (v.) Old form(s): vp
prevent, keep away, impede Headword location(s)
bird (n.)
object of prey, quarry Headword location(s)
bird (n.)
young bird, fledgeling, nestling Headword location(s)
bird-bolt, burbolt (n.) Old form(s): Birdbolt
short blunt-headed arrow for shooting birds Headword location(s)
birding (n.)
hunting small birds Headword location(s)
birdlime (n.) Old form(s): Birdlyme
sticky substance spread on branches to snare birds see also lime (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
birdlime (n.) Old form(s): Birdlyme
sticky substance spread on branches to snare birds see also lime (v.) 1 Headword location(s)
Birnan, Birnam (n.)
Birnam, Dunkeld, near the River Tay, Scotland see also Britain [outside London] Headword location(s)
birth (n.)
royal birth, noble ancestry Headword location(s)
birth (n.)
[astrology] horoscope, fortune, destiny Headword location(s)
birth (n.)
nature, kind, natural character Headword location(s)
birth-child (n.) Old form(s): byrth-childe
native, local inhabitant Headword location(s)
birthdom (n.) Old form(s): Birthdome
kingdom of birth, birthright, native land Headword location(s)
birthright (n.) Old form(s): birth-right
inherited qualities, naturally endowed traits Headword location(s)
bis...
cooked twice see also Latin Headword location(s)
bisson (adj.) Old form(s): beesome
blear-eyed, half-blind Headword location(s)
bisson (adj.)
blinding, dazzling Headword location(s)
bit (adj.)
marked, scarred Headword location(s)
bit (n.)
morsel, scrap, titbit Headword location(s)
bite (v.)
speak bitterly, inveigh, carp Headword location(s)
bite (v.)
erode, wear down, eat away at Headword location(s)
bite one's thumb
[gesture of insult or defiance] insert the thumb nail into the mouth, making it click againt the upper teeth upon release Headword location(s)
bite one's tongue
stay silent, repress speech Headword location(s)
biting (adj.)
severe, painful, brutal Headword location(s)
bitter (adj.)
sharp, shrewd, keen Headword location(s)
bitumed (adj.) Old form(s): bittumed
smeared with pitch [bitumen] Headword location(s)
blab (v.) Old form(s): blab'd
prattle, utter innocently Headword location(s)
blab (v.) Old form(s): blab'd
talk indiscreetly, betray secrets Headword location(s)
blab (v.)
betray, reveal Headword location(s)
blabber (v.)
babble, mumble Headword location(s)
blabbing (adj.)
revealing secrets, tell-tale, indiscreet Headword location(s)
black (adj.) Old form(s): blacke
dark-complexioned, swarthy Headword location(s)
black (adj.) Old form(s): blacke
wicked, slanderous, calumnious Headword location(s)
black (adj.) Old form(s): blacke
deadly, doom-laden, of death Headword location(s)
black (n.)
black clothes see also devil wear black Headword location(s)
black (n.) Old form(s): blacke
dark complexion Headword location(s)
Black Monday
[in MV II.v.24] confusion of the day after Easter Sunday with Ash Wednesday see also Days and dates Headword location(s)
blackamoor (n.) Old form(s): Black moores , Black-a-Moore, blackeaMoore
dark-skinned African Headword location(s)
black-cornered (adj.) Old form(s): blacke-corner'd
full of dark places to hide Headword location(s)
bladder (n.)
cavity, vessel [of the body] Headword location(s)
bladder (n.)
vessel derived from animals used for storing liquid Headword location(s)
bladder (n.)
air-filled bag Headword location(s)
blade (n.)
greenness, immaturity, early days Headword location(s)
bladed (adj.)
many-bladed, abounding in shoots Headword location(s)
blain (n.) Old form(s): Blaines
blister, inflamed sore Headword location(s)
blame (adj.)
blameworthy, culpable, guilty see also wilful-blame (adj.) Headword location(s)
blame (n.)
blameworthiness, culpability, guilt Headword location(s)
blame (n.)
fault, sin, offence Headword location(s)
blame, to Old form(s): too
to be blamed, blameworthy Headword location(s)
blameful (adj.) Old form(s): blamefull
guilty, blameworthy, shameful Headword location(s)
blank (n.) Old form(s): blanke
bull's-eye, target centre; or: line of sight Headword location(s)
blank (n.)
[in phrases] see also blank charter Headword location(s)
blank (n.)
[in phrases] see also lots to blanks Headword location(s)
blank (v.) Old form(s): blankes
make pale, blanch, drain (colour) Headword location(s)
blank charter, blank (n.) Old form(s): blanke , Blanke-charters, blankes
promissory document with the amount to pay left open Headword location(s)
blaspheme (v.)
slander, defame, defile Headword location(s)
blast (n.)
storm, rage, angry breath Headword location(s)
blast (v.)
blight, wither, destroy Headword location(s)
blast (v.)
come to grief, be destroyed, fail Headword location(s)
blast (v.)
destroy, ruin, lay waste Headword location(s)
blasted (adj.)
blighted, withered; accursed, malevolent Headword location(s)
blasting (adj.)
blighting, withering, destructive Headword location(s)
blasting (adj.)
defaming, maligning, discrediting Headword location(s)
blastment (n.)
blight, withering Headword location(s)
blaze, blaze forth (v.)
proclaim, divulge, make known Headword location(s)
blazon (n.) Old form(s): blason
revelation, divulging, publication Headword location(s)
blazon (n.)
description, representation, delineation Headword location(s)
blazon (n.)
armorial bearing, banner showing a coat-of-arms Headword location(s)
blazon (v.) Old form(s): blason , blazon'st
proclaim, display [as in a coat-of-arms] Headword location(s)
blazoned (adj.) Old form(s): blazond
painted, adorned, depicted Headword location(s)
blazoning (adj.)
praising, proclaiming, boasting Headword location(s)
bleak (adj.) Old form(s): bleake
exposed, windswept, desolate Headword location(s)
bleak (adj.) Old form(s): bleake
pale, pallid, sickly Headword location(s)
bleak (adj.) Old form(s): bleake
cold, chill, icy Headword location(s)
blear (v.) Old form(s): bleer'd
deceive, delude, fool Headword location(s)
bleared (adj.)
blear-eyed, tear-dimmed Headword location(s)
bleed (v.) Old form(s): bleede
lose blood, as a means of healing Headword location(s)
bleeding (adj.)
unhealed, uncured, undecided Headword location(s)
bleeding (adj.)
bloody, blood-soaked, bloodstained Headword location(s)
bleeding (n.)
bloodshed; blood-letting [in medicine] Headword location(s)
blench (n.)
sidelong glance, turning aside Headword location(s)
blench (v.)
flinch, start, shrink Headword location(s)
blench (v.)
swerve, turn aside, give way Headword location(s)
blend (adj.)
blended, mingled, intermixed Headword location(s)
blent (adj.)
blended, mixed, applied [as of painting] Headword location(s)
bless (v.) Old form(s): blesse
wound, hurt, beat; also: consecrate Headword location(s)
bless (v.) Old form(s): blesse
guard, protect, safeguard Headword location(s)
bless (v.)
see also Greetings Headword location(s)
bless (v.)
see also Politeness Headword location(s)
blessed (adv.)
blessedly, happily Headword location(s)
blessed, blest (adj.)
happy, glad, joyful Headword location(s)
blessed, blest (adj.)
lucky, fortunate, happy Headword location(s)
blessed, blest (adj.)
capable of blessing, full of happiness Headword location(s)
blessed, blest (adj.)
curative, therapeutic, endowed with healing properties Headword location(s)
blessedly (adv.)
luckily, fortunately, happily Headword location(s)
blind (adj.) Old form(s): blinde
sheer, utter, downright Headword location(s)
blind (adj.) Old form(s): blinde
dark, black Headword location(s)
blind (adj.) Old form(s): blinde
heedless, reckless, headstrong Headword location(s)
blind (v.) Old form(s): blinde
make blind, deprive of sight Headword location(s)
blindness (n.) Old form(s): blindnesse
concealment, disguise, camouflage Headword location(s)
blindworm (n.) Old form(s): Blinde-wormes
slow-worm Headword location(s)
blinking (adj.)
blind, sightless Headword location(s)
blister (n.)
burn-mark Headword location(s)
blister (v.) Old form(s): blisterd
raise blisters on [as if branded on the forehead as a whore]; tarnish, stain Headword location(s)
blistered (adj.) Old form(s): blistred
ornamented with puffs, displaying slashes to show the lining Headword location(s)
blithe (adj.) Old form(s): blyther
merry, happy, joyful Headword location(s)
bloat (adj.)
bloated, flabby, swollen [with excess] Headword location(s)
block (n.) Old form(s): blocke
blockhead Headword location(s)
block (n.)
[of hats] style, fashion, shape, mould Headword location(s)
blockish (adj.)
thick, obtuse, stupid Headword location(s)
blood (n.)
hereditary rights, appropriate rank, rightful title Headword location(s)
blood (n.) Old form(s): bloud
blood relationship, kinship Headword location(s)
blood (n.)
blood-letting, bleeding Headword location(s)
blood (n.) Old form(s): bloud
nobility, breeding, gentility, good parentage Headword location(s)
blood (n.) Old form(s): bloud
spirit, vigour, mettle Headword location(s)
blood (n.) Old form(s): bloud
vital fluid, life-giving juice Headword location(s)
blood (n.) Old form(s): bloud
disposition, temper, mood Headword location(s)
blood (n.) Old form(s): bloud
anger, temper, passion Headword location(s)
blood (n.) Old form(s): bloud
colouring, healthy complexion, blushing Headword location(s)
blood (n.) Old form(s): bloud , blouds
passion, feeling, strong emotion [especially sexual] Headword location(s)
blood (n.) Old form(s): blouds
man of fire, hot-blooded fellow, spirited youth Headword location(s)
blood (n.)
life-blood, spirit Headword location(s)
blood (v.) Old form(s): bloud
bleed, yield blood Headword location(s)
blood, in
[hunting] full of life, in fine condition Headword location(s)
blood-boltered (adj.) Old form(s): Blood-bolter'd
with hair matted with blood, with tangled bloody knots of hair Headword location(s)
blood-drinking (adj.)
bloodthirsty, eager for bloodshed Headword location(s)
blood-drinking (adj.)
draining the blood away [from the face] Headword location(s)
blood-sized (adj.) Old form(s): blood cizd
blood-soaked, smeared with blood see also over-sized (adj.) Headword location(s)
bloody (adj.) Old form(s): bloudie
able to cause bloodshed Headword location(s)
bloody (adj.) Old form(s): bloodie , blouddy , bloudie, bloudy
bloodthirsty, warlike, ferocious Headword location(s)
bloody (adj.) Old form(s): bloodie
portending bloodshed; or: blood-red, scarlet Headword location(s)
bloody (adj.) Old form(s): bloudy
in the blood, in the veins Headword location(s)
bloody (adj.)
involving bloodshed Headword location(s)
bloody (adj.)
blood-containing Headword location(s)
bloody-minded (adj.)
bloodthirsty, ready to shed someone's blood Headword location(s)
bloomed (adj.) Old form(s): bloomd
covered with blossom, in bloom Headword location(s)
blossoms (n.) Old form(s): blossomes
prime, peak, full flowering [as of a plant] Headword location(s)
blot (n.)
stain, disgrace, blemish Headword location(s)
blot (v.)
erase, wipe out, obliterate Headword location(s)
blot (v.)
slander, defile, blacken Headword location(s)
blot (v.)
obscure, darken, cloud Headword location(s)
blot out (v.)
cross out, erase, obliterate Headword location(s)
blow (n.)
[fencing] stab, firm stroke Headword location(s)
blow (v.) Old form(s): blowes
blossom, bloom, flower Headword location(s)
blow (v.) Old form(s): blowne
deposit eggs [in], pollute, contaminate Headword location(s)
blow (v.) Old form(s): blowes
swell to bursting, break, shatter Headword location(s)
blow (v.)
breathe hot breath [on] Headword location(s)
blow (v.) Old form(s): blowes , blowne
puff up, swell, inflate Headword location(s)
blow (v.)
blow up, explode on Headword location(s)
blow one's nail / nails Old form(s): blowes, naile
twiddle one's thumbs, wait patiently Headword location(s)
blow wind in the breech
feel the wind [we leave behind], run to keep up [with us] Headword location(s)
blown (adj.) Old form(s): blowne
in full flower, in its bloom see also unblown (adj.) Headword location(s)
blown (adj.) Old form(s): blowne
in full flower, in its bloom see also half-blown (adj.) Headword location(s)
blown (adj.) Old form(s): blowne
swollen; or: wind-driven Headword location(s)
blown (adj.) Old form(s): blowne
swollen, inflated with pride Headword location(s)
blown (adj.) Old form(s): blow'd
whispered, hinted, insinuated Headword location(s)
blown (adj.) Old form(s): blowne
inflamed, swollen, distended Headword location(s)
blowt (adj.)
bloated, flabby, swollen [with excess] see also bloat (adj.) Headword location(s)
blowze (n.) Old form(s): blowse
red-faced lass Headword location(s)
blubbered (adj.) Old form(s): blubberd
tear-stained, disfigured with weeping [no comic overtones] Headword location(s)
blue (adj.) Old form(s): blew
[of eyes] dark-circled, shadow-rimmed Headword location(s)
bluebottle (adj.) Old form(s): blew-Bottel'd
blue-coated, blue-uniformed Headword location(s)
blue-cap (n.) Old form(s): blew-Cappes
[contemptous] one who wears a blue bonnet; Scotsman Headword location(s)
blunt (adj.)
stupid, obtuse, dull-witted Headword location(s)
blunt (adj.)
plain-spoken, unceremonious, forthright Headword location(s)
blunt (adj.)
rough, unrefined, uncivilized Headword location(s)
blunt (adj.)
rough, harsh, unsparing Headword location(s)
blur (n.)
blot, stain, blemish Headword location(s)
blur (v.) Old form(s): blur'd
blot, stain, defame Headword location(s)
blurt (v.)
mouthe in contempt, scoff, mock Headword location(s)
blurt at (v.)
treat with contempt, scorn, look down on Headword location(s)
blushing (adj.)
modest, self-effacing, unassuming Headword location(s)
blushing (adj.)
glowing, rosy-coloured, lustrous Headword location(s)
bluster (n.)
storm, tempest, rough blast Headword location(s)
blusterer (n.)
braggart, boaster, swaggerer Headword location(s)
blustering (adj.) Old form(s): blustring
turbulent, buffeted, tempestuous Headword location(s)
blusterous (adj.)
blustery, rough, stormy Headword location(s)
board (n.) Old form(s): Boord
table, mealtimes Headword location(s)
board (n.) Old form(s): boord
table Headword location(s)
board (v.) Old form(s): boord, boorded
accost, address, approach, tackle Headword location(s)
board (v.) Old form(s): boord
[nautical] get on board Headword location(s)
boast off (v.) Old form(s): of
boast about, extol, sing praises of Headword location(s)
bob (n.)
jest, jibe, taunt Headword location(s)
bob (v.)
knock, bump, bang Headword location(s)
bob (v.) Old form(s): bob'd
swindle, cheat, get by deception Headword location(s)
bob (v.) Old form(s): bobb'd
punch, strike, buffet Headword location(s)
bobtail (adj.) Old form(s): Bobtaile
with a docked tail Headword location(s)
bode (v.) Old form(s): boade , boaded , boades , boads
forebode, portend, predict, augur Headword location(s)
bode (v.) Old form(s): boaded
promise, predict, forecast Headword location(s)
bodement (n.) Old form(s): boadments
omen, portent, augury Headword location(s)
bodge (v.)
give way, retreat see also budge (v.) 2 Headword location(s)
boding (adj.) Old form(s): boading
ominous, full of foreboding Headword location(s)
bodkin (n.)
dagger [or other pointed weapon] see also Weapons Headword location(s)
bodkin (n.)
hair-pin, pin-shaped ornament Headword location(s)
bodkin (n.)
small sharply pointed implement for piercing Headword location(s)
bodkin (n.)
dear body see also Swearing Headword location(s)
body (n.)
anyone, anybody, one Headword location(s)
body (n.)
group, ensemble, company Headword location(s)
body (n.)
main part, chief element Headword location(s)
body (n.) Old form(s): bodie
corporate body, collective mass [of people] Headword location(s)
body (n.) Old form(s): bodie
person, individual Headword location(s)
body (n.)
length and breadth, extent Headword location(s)
body forth (v.)
make available to the mind, give mental shape to Headword location(s)
body o' me
my body, my life see also Swearing Headword location(s)
bodykins (int.)
[God's] dear body see also Swearing Headword location(s)
boggle (v.)
start with fright, shy away, become alarmed Headword location(s)
boggler (n.) Old form(s): boggeler
waverer, vacillator, mind-changer Headword location(s)
Boheme (n.)
[pron: 'bohheem] alternative name for Bohemia see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
Boheme (n.)
[pron: 'bohheem] alternative name for Bohemia see also Bohemia 1 Headword location(s)
Bohemia (n.)
historic province of W Czech Republic see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
Bohemian-Tartar (n.)
barbarian, savage beast Headword location(s)
boiled (adj.) Old form(s): boyl'd
receiving a sweating treatment [for venereal disease] Headword location(s)
boiled-brain (n.) Old form(s): boylde-braines
hothead, maniac, headstrong fellow Headword location(s)
boisterous (adj.) Old form(s): boystrous , boyst'rous
tumultuous, violent, tempestuous Headword location(s)
boisterous (adj.) Old form(s): boistrous , boysterous , boystrous , boyst'rous
violent, fierce, savage Headword location(s)
boisterous (adj.) Old form(s): boysterous
irritable, painful, irritating Headword location(s)
boisterous (adj.) Old form(s): boysterous
painful, hurtful, rough on the feelings Headword location(s)
boisterous (adv.) Old form(s): boistrous
violently, fiercely, forcefully Headword location(s)
boisterously (adv.) Old form(s): boysterously
forcefully, violently, roughly Headword location(s)
bold (adj.)
ready, unafraid, prepared Headword location(s)
bold (adj.) Old form(s): bold'st
shameless, immodest, outspoken, coarse Headword location(s)
bold (adj.)
over-confident, presumptuous, audacious, impudent Headword location(s)
bold (adj.)
confident, certain, sure Headword location(s)
bold (v.)
make bold, hearten, encourage Headword location(s)
bold, be / make
presume, venture, take the liberty Headword location(s)
bolden (v.) Old form(s): boldned
embolden, make bold, encourage Headword location(s)
boldened (adj.) Old form(s): bolden'd
emboldened, made brave Headword location(s)
boldness (n.) Old form(s): boldnes
confidence, assurance, certainty Headword location(s)
bolin (n.)
[nautical] bow-line, rope for steadying a sail Headword location(s)
bollen (adj.) Old form(s): boln
swollen, puffed out, inflamed Headword location(s)
bolster (v.) Old form(s): boulster
lie on the same bolster, share a pillow Headword location(s)
bolt (n.)
[short and thick, crossbow] arrow see also shaft (n.) Headword location(s)
bolt (n.) Old form(s): Boult
thunderbolt Headword location(s)
bolt (n.)
fetter, shackle, iron fastening Headword location(s)
bolt (v.)
sift, separate out Headword location(s)
bolted (adj.) Old form(s): boulted
refined, carefully sifted, polished Headword location(s)
bolter (n.) Old form(s): Boulters
sifting-cloth, sieve, strainer Headword location(s)
bolting (n.)
[of flour] sifting Headword location(s)
bolting-hutch (n.) Old form(s): Boulting-Hutch
sifting-bin [used in filtering flour from bran] Headword location(s)
bombard, bumbard (n.)
large leather wine jug Headword location(s)
bombast, bumbast (adj.)
bombastic, padded-out, waffly Headword location(s)
bombast, bumbast (n.)
wool padding, stuffing; also: high-flown language, empty words Headword location(s)
bon jour (French adj. + n.)
good day Headword location(s)
bona-roba (n.)
high-class prostitute, good quality bit of stuff see also Italian and Spanish Headword location(s)
bond (n.)
shackle, chain, fetter Headword location(s)
bond (n.)
duty, commitment, obligation Headword location(s)
bond (n.)
tie, binding, obligation Headword location(s)
bond (n.) Old form(s): Bondes
deed, contract, pledge Headword location(s)
bond (n.)
[physical] tie, restraint, constraint Headword location(s)
bondage (n.)
condition of being bound, constraint, oppression Headword location(s)
bondage (n.)
binding power, obligatory force Headword location(s)
bondage (n.)
binding up, tying up, wrapping up Headword location(s)
bondmaid (n.) Old form(s): bondmaide
slave girl Headword location(s)
bondman (n.) Old form(s): Bond-man , bond-mans , Bond-men
bondsman, serf, slave Headword location(s)
bondslave (n.) Old form(s): bondslaue, Bond-slaues
slave, bondsman, person in a condition of servitude Headword location(s)
bone (n.)
[weaving] bobbin made of bone Headword location(s)
bone (n.)
(plural) pieces of bone [used as a musical instrument] Headword location(s)
bone (n.)
(plural) man, person Headword location(s)
bone (n.)
body, physique, bodily frame Headword location(s)
bone-ache (n.), Neapolitan bone-ache Old form(s): bone-ach
[pain in the bones from Naples] syphilis, venereal disease Headword location(s)
bonnet (n.) Old form(s): Bonet
hat, cap see also Clothing Headword location(s)
bonnet (v.)
take off the hat, remove the bonnet [in respect or flattery] Headword location(s)
bonny (adj.) Old form(s): bonnie
strong, stalwart, strapping Headword location(s)
bonny (adj.) Old form(s): bonnie , bony
fine, beautiful, splendid Headword location(s)
book (n.) Old form(s): Bookes
writing tablet Headword location(s)
book (n.) Old form(s): booke
Bible, prayer-book Headword location(s)
book (n.) Old form(s): Booke
deed, charter, set of indentures see also drawn (v.) Headword location(s)
book (n.) Old form(s): Booke
book-learning, scholarship, erudition Headword location(s)
book (n.) Old form(s): bookes
(plural) good books, favour, regard Headword location(s)
book (n.)
writing, written composition Headword location(s)
book (v.) Old form(s): booke
record, list, register Headword location(s)
book, by the
expertly, as if following a manual Headword location(s)
book, without Old form(s): booke
off by heart, by rote see also con (v.) 1 Headword location(s)
bookish (adj.)
of mere book-learning, obtained only from books, scholarly Headword location(s)
book-man (n.) Old form(s): bookemen
scholar, student Headword location(s)
book-mate (n.) Old form(s): Booke-mates
fellow-student, scholarly associate Headword location(s)
book-oath (n.)
oath made on a Bible or prayer-book see also book (n.) 3 Headword location(s)
boon (n.) Old form(s): boone
petition, entreaty, request Headword location(s)
boor (n.) Old form(s): Boores
peasant, rustic Headword location(s)
boorish (n.)
coarse vernacular, uncultured speech Headword location(s)
boot (n.) Old form(s): boote
good, advantage, profit Headword location(s)
boot (n.) Old form(s): boote , Bootes
booty, plunder, spoils Headword location(s)
boot (n.) Old form(s): boote
alternative, choice, better way Headword location(s)
boot (n.) Old form(s): boote
additional element, something added to the bargain Headword location(s)
boot (n.) Old form(s): Boote
riding-boot Headword location(s)
boot (v.) Old form(s): bootes
help, serve, benefit, be useful [to] Headword location(s)
boot (v.)
benefit, increase, compensate Headword location(s)
boot (v.)
put on one's boots Headword location(s)
boot, to Old form(s): boote, too boote
in addition, as well see also Swearing Headword location(s)
boot-hose (n.)
over-stocking covering the whole of the lower leg see also hose (n.) Headword location(s)
bootless (adj.) Old form(s): booteles , bootelesse , bootles , bootlesse
useless, worthless, fruitless, unavailing Headword location(s)
bootless (adv.) Old form(s): Bootlesse
fruitlessly, uselessly, unsuccessfully, in vain Headword location(s)
boots, give someone the
make fun of someone, make a fool of someone Headword location(s)
bo-peep (n.) Old form(s): bo-peepe
peep-bo, peek-a-boo [a game played with babies] Headword location(s)
border (v.)
keep within bounds, contain, confine Headword location(s)
bordering (adj.)
on the border Headword location(s)
bore (n.)
calibre, size [of a gun] Headword location(s)
bore (n.) Old form(s): boare
bore-hole, auger hole Headword location(s)
bore (n.)
cavity, aperture, hole Headword location(s)
bore (v.)
fool, trick, cheat Headword location(s)
Boreas (n.)
[pron: 'borias] Greek god of the north wind see also Gods and goddesses Headword location(s)
boresprit (n.) Old form(s): Bore-spritt
bowsprit; boom extending from the bow to which the lower edge of the front sail is fastened see also Ships Headword location(s)
borne (adj.)
behaved, conducted, mannered Headword location(s)
borrow (n.)
borrowing, loan, allowance Headword location(s)
borrowed (adj.)
assumed, pretended, feigned Headword location(s)
bosky (adj.) Old form(s): boskie
bushy, full of thickets Headword location(s)
bosom (adj.) Old form(s): Bosome
intimate, confidential, close Headword location(s)
bosom (n.) Old form(s): bosome
stomach, gut; or: being, person Headword location(s)
bosom (n.) Old form(s): Bosome
warm-heartedness, tender affection Headword location(s)
bosom (n.) Old form(s): bosome , bosomes
inward thoughts, personal counsel Headword location(s)
bosom (n.) Old form(s): bosome
wish, desire Headword location(s)
bosom (n.) Old form(s): bosome, bosomes
heart, inner person Headword location(s)
bosom (n.) Old form(s): bosome , bosomes
surface Headword location(s)
bosom (n.) Old form(s): bosome
depths Headword location(s)
bosom (n.) Old form(s): bosome
pocket on the front of a woman's dress Headword location(s)
bosom up (v.) Old form(s): Bosome vp
take to heart, keep in mind Headword location(s)
bosom, in one's Old form(s): bosome
privately, intimately Headword location(s)
bosom, of one's Old form(s): bosome
in one's confidence, entrusted with one's secrets Headword location(s)
bosomed (adj.)
intimate, close Headword location(s)
bossed (adj.) Old form(s): bost
ornamented, studded Headword location(s)
botch (n.)
flaw, blemish, clumsy result Headword location(s)
botch (n.) Old form(s): batch
tumour, boil, ulcer Headword location(s)
botch (v.) Old form(s): botcht
clumsily patch together, fumble with Headword location(s)
botch up (v.) Old form(s): botch'd vp
clumsily contrive, make a mess of Headword location(s)
botcher (n.)
mender of old clothes, tailor who does repairs, patcher-up Headword location(s)
botchy (adj.)
enveloped in sores [botches], tumour-covered Headword location(s)
both (adv.)
the following set [of nouns - not restricted to two] Headword location(s)
both-sides (adj.)
two-faced, double-dealing, hypocritical Headword location(s)
bots (n.) Old form(s): Bottes
stomach worm affecting horses see also Swearing Headword location(s)
bottle (n.)
bundle, truss [of hay] Headword location(s)
bottle (n.)
wicker basket Headword location(s)
bottle-ale (adj.)
dissolute, degenerate, low Headword location(s)
bottled (adj.) Old form(s): Bottel'd
bottle-shaped, hunched, swollen Headword location(s)
bottom (n.) Old form(s): bottome , Bottomes
[nautical: keel, hull] ship, vessel Headword location(s)
bottom (n.) Old form(s): bottome
depths see also sound (v.) 2 Headword location(s)
bottom (n.) Old form(s): bottome
bobbin, ball Headword location(s)
bottom (n.) Old form(s): Bottome
valley, hollow, dell Headword location(s)
bottom (n.) Old form(s): bottome
essence, gist, main point Headword location(s)
bottom (n.) Old form(s): Bottome
total extent, basis, foundation Headword location(s)
bottom (n.) Old form(s): bottome
lowest point, nadir Headword location(s)
bottom (v.) Old form(s): bottome
reach a lower level than, probe more deeply than Headword location(s)
bottom (v.) Old form(s): bottome
[of wool] wind into a ball; focus, concentrate Headword location(s)
bottomless (adj.) Old form(s): bottomelesse
inexhaustible, unfathomable, infinite Headword location(s)
boughs (n.) Old form(s): bowes
leaves, foliage Headword location(s)
bought and sold
past form of 'buy and sell' see also buy and sell Headword location(s)
bounce (n.)
explosion, detonation, gun-shot see also Sounds Headword location(s)
bounce (v.) Old form(s): bounst
move with a sudden bound Headword location(s)
bouncing (adj.)
beefy, hefty, strapping Headword location(s)
bound (adj.)
obliged, indebted, under an obligation Headword location(s)
bound (adj.)
obliged, required, forced Headword location(s)
bound (adj.)
ready, prepared Headword location(s)
bound (adj.)
indentured, contracted Headword location(s)
bound (n.)
(plural) extent, land, area [within boundaries] Headword location(s)
bound (n.) Old form(s): bownd
limit, boundary, confine, barrier Headword location(s)
bound (n.)
territory, region, domain Headword location(s)
bound (v.)
determine, mark out, define Headword location(s)
bound (v.)
limit, confine, submit Headword location(s)
bound (v.)
bounce, rebound Headword location(s)
bound (v.)
contain, enclose, confine Headword location(s)
bounded (adj.)
confined, enclosed, operating within limits Headword location(s)
bounden (adj.)
indebted, obliged, grateful Headword location(s)
bounding (adj.) Old form(s): bouding
limiting, containing, confining Headword location(s)
bounteous (adj.)
open-hearted, full of warm feeling Headword location(s)
bounteously (adv.)
very well, liberally, generously Headword location(s)
bounty (n.) Old form(s): Bountie, Bounties
great generosity, gracious liberality, munificence Headword location(s)
bounty (n.)
special gift, present Headword location(s)
bounty (n.) Old form(s): Bounties
act of kindness, good turn Headword location(s)
bourn (n.) Old form(s): borne , bourne
frontier, destination, boundary Headword location(s)
bourn (n.) Old form(s): Borne
limit of property, land boundary Headword location(s)
bout (n.) Old form(s): bowt , bowts
fight, round, contest Headword location(s)
bout (n.)
round, turn of the floor, division of a dance Headword location(s)
bow (n.)
yoke Headword location(s)
bow (n.) Old form(s): bowes
bowman, archer Headword location(s)
bow (v.)
retreat, yield, turn away Headword location(s)
bow (v.) Old form(s): bow'd
make to bend, cause to bend Headword location(s)
bow hand (n.)
hand which holds a bow Headword location(s)
bow-back (n.) Old form(s): bow-backe
arched back Headword location(s)
bowed (adj.) Old form(s): bow'd
bent, crooked Headword location(s)
bowels (n.) Old form(s): bowells
depths, core, interior Headword location(s)
bowels (n.)
children, offspring Headword location(s)
bowels (n.)
feelings, sensitivity, heart Headword location(s)
bower (n.)
arbour, leafy glade; or: lady's chamber, boudoir Headword location(s)
bower (v.)
enclose, fence in Headword location(s)
bowget (n.)
tool-bag, pouch see also budget (n.) Headword location(s)
bowling, bowline (n.)
[nautical] rope which keeps the edge of a sail steady see also Ships Headword location(s)
box-tree Old form(s): box tree
type of ornamental thick shrub Headword location(s)
boy (n.)
servant, slave, menial Headword location(s)
boy (n.)
fellow, rogue, wretch see also Address forms Headword location(s)
boy (n.) Old form(s): Boyes
child Headword location(s)
boy (v.)
represent by a boy, reduce to a boy-actor level [boys played the female parts in Shakespeare's time] Headword location(s)
boy-queller (n.)
child killer see also queller (n.) Headword location(s)
brabble (n.)
brawl, noisy quarrel, fracas Headword location(s)
brabble (n.) Old form(s): prabbles, prables
quibbling, nit-picking, noisy disputing see also Welsh Headword location(s)
brabbler (n.) Old form(s): brabler
braggart, brawler, quarreller Headword location(s)
brace (n.)
cord, strap, thong Headword location(s)
brace (n.)
group of two, couple, pair see also Numbers Headword location(s)
brace (n.)
state of readiness, defence, preparation Headword location(s)
brace (n.) Old form(s): brayse
armoured covering for the arms; or: coat of armour see also Body-armour Headword location(s)
braced (adj.) Old form(s): brac'd
with tightened skin, stretched Headword location(s)
bracelet (n.)
manacle, fetter, handcuff Headword location(s)
brach (n.) Old form(s): Brache
hound [which hunts by scent], bitch Headword location(s)
brag (n.) Old form(s): bragges
boast, bragging claim Headword location(s)
brag (v.)
talk with pride [about], sound off [about] Headword location(s)
braggardism, braggartism (n.) Old form(s): Bragadisme
bragging, boasting Headword location(s)
bragged (adj.) Old form(s): bragg'd
bragging, boastful, vaunting Headword location(s)
bragging (adj.)
threatening, menacing, challenging Headword location(s)
bragless (adj.) Old form(s): braglesse
without vain boast, without gloating Headword location(s)
braid (adj.) Old form(s): braide
[unclear meaning] twisted, deceitful Headword location(s)
braid (v.) Old form(s): brayde
upbraid, reproach, disparage Headword location(s)
braided (adj.)
plaited, woven, divided into locks Headword location(s)
brain (n.) Old form(s): braines
(plural) witticisms, clever remarks Headword location(s)
brain (v.) Old form(s): braine
understand, comprehend, grasp Headword location(s)
brain (v.) Old form(s): brain'd
murder, dash the brains out of Headword location(s)
brained (adj.) Old form(s): brain'd
furnished with a brain, addle-brained Headword location(s)
Brainford (n.)
Brentford, not far from Kew Gardens, London see also Britain [outside London] Headword location(s)
brainish (adj.)
deluded, distracted, deranged Headword location(s)
brainsick, brain-sick (adj.) Old form(s): braine-sicke
foolish, addle-headed Headword location(s)
brainsick, brain-sick (adj.) Old form(s): brainesicke
mad, foolish, frantic Headword location(s)
brain-sickly (adv.) Old form(s): braine-sickly
foolishly, in such an addle-headed way Headword location(s)
brake (n.) Old form(s): Beake
bush, thicket Headword location(s)
brake (n.)
entanglement, snare, restriction Headword location(s)
bran (n.)
husk, inedible part of grain Headword location(s)
branch (n.)
division, section, part [of an argument] Headword location(s)
branched Old form(s): branch'd
embroidered, brocaded Headword location(s)
branchless (adj.) Old form(s): branchlesse
maimed, disfigured, cut down Headword location(s)
brand (n.)
mark of infamy, stigma, disgrace Headword location(s)
brand (n.)
ornamental flaming torch [associated with Cupid] Headword location(s)
brand (v.)
mark indelibly, make conspicuous Headword location(s)
brandish (v.)
make shine, cause to flash Headword location(s)
brass (n.) Old form(s): brasse
brazenness, effrontery, impudence Headword location(s)
brass, braze (v.) Old form(s): braz'd
harden (like brass) Headword location(s)
brassy (adj.) Old form(s): brassie
hard as brass, unfeeling, impenetrable Headword location(s)
brat (n.)
child [not always with contemptuous connotation] Headword location(s)
brave (adj.) Old form(s): braue , brauer
fine, excellent, splendid, impressive see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
brave (adj.) Old form(s): braue
defiant, insolent, impudent Headword location(s)
brave (adj.) Old form(s): braue , brauer
audacious, daring, bold Headword location(s)
brave (adj.) Old form(s): braue , braue , Brauer , brauest
noble, worthy, excellent Headword location(s)
brave (n.) Old form(s): braue, braues
boast, bravado, blustering threat Headword location(s)
brave (v.) Old form(s): brau'd , Braue , braued, braues , Brauing
challenge, defy, confront, provoke Headword location(s)
brave (v.) Old form(s): brau'd
make splendid, adorn, brighten up Headword location(s)
brave (v.) Old form(s): braue , brauing
swagger, act boastfully, show off Headword location(s)
bravely (adv.) Old form(s): brauely
showily, with great display, with a fine flourish Headword location(s)
bravely (adv.) Old form(s): brauely
splendidly, worthily, excellently Headword location(s)
bravely (adv.) Old form(s): braue, brauely
in fine clothes, splendidly dressed Headword location(s)
bravery (n.) Old form(s): brauery
display, manifestation, extravagance Headword location(s)
bravery (n.) Old form(s): brauerie , brau'ry
finery, fine clothes, rich dress Headword location(s)
bravery (n.) Old form(s): brauery , brau'ry
splendour, fine display, ostentation Headword location(s)
bravery (n.) Old form(s): brauery
defiant character, threatening appearance Headword location(s)
bravery (n.)
bravado, show of daring, swaggering display Headword location(s)
braving (adj.) Old form(s): brauing
defiant, daring, boasting Headword location(s)
brawl (n.) Old form(s): brauling
type of French dance Headword location(s)
brawl (v.) Old form(s): braul, braules , brawle
quarrel, squabble, contend Headword location(s)
brawl (v.)
[of streams] run noisily Headword location(s)
brawl down (v.) Old form(s): braul'd downe
destroy with uproar, force down with clamour Headword location(s)
brawling (adj.)
clamorous, noisy, tumultuous Headword location(s)
brawn (n.) Old form(s): Brawne
muscular arm, sturdy limb Headword location(s)
brawn (n.) Old form(s): brawnes
muscle, fleshy part of the body Headword location(s)
brawn (n.) Old form(s): Brawne
fattened boar, stuffed pig [ready for eating] Headword location(s)
brawn-buttock (n.) Old form(s): brawn buttocke
fleshy buttock, well-rounded bottom Headword location(s)
braze (v.)
harden (like brass) see also brass (v.) Headword location(s)
brazen (adj.) Old form(s): brasen , Brazon
made of brass, very strong, powerful Headword location(s)
brazen (adj.)
everlasting, imperishable, impenetrable Headword location(s)
brazen-faced (adj.) Old form(s): brazen-fac'd
shameless, unblushing, unabashed Headword location(s)
brazier (n.) Old form(s): Brasier
brass-worker Headword location(s)
breach (n.)
disregarding, breaking see also before-breach (n.) Headword location(s)
breach (n.)
outbreak, uprising, insurrection Headword location(s)
breach (n.)
surf, breaking waves Headword location(s)
breach (n.)
tear, gap, hole Headword location(s)
bread (n.)
sacramental wafer eaten during a religious service see also Swearing Headword location(s)
bread-chipper (n.) Old form(s): Bread-chopper
menial who cuts away the crust of a loaf Headword location(s)
break (on, upon) (v.) Old form(s): Breakes
[of jokes] crack, make Headword location(s)
break (v.) Old form(s): Breake
reveal, disclose, impart Headword location(s)
break (v.) Old form(s): breake
crack, split, beat Headword location(s)
break (v.) Old form(s): breakes
wane, fall away, fail Headword location(s)
break (v.) Old form(s): breake
burst, rupture Headword location(s)
break (v.) Old form(s): breake
burst open, break through Headword location(s)
break (v.) Old form(s): breake
break one's promise, not keep one's word Headword location(s)
break (v.) Old form(s): breake
graze, bruise, cut open Headword location(s)
break (v.) Old form(s): breake
wear out, exhaust Headword location(s)
break (v.) Old form(s): breake
speak, exchange Headword location(s)
break (v.) Old form(s): breake
wring, twist, squeeze Headword location(s)
break (v.) Old form(s): breake
interrupt, break in on, cut in on Headword location(s)
break (v.) Old form(s): breake
escape, break free, get away Headword location(s)
break (v.) Old form(s): breake
broach a matter, speak Headword location(s)
break (v.)
disband, disperse, demobilize Headword location(s)
break (v.)
train, discipline, mould Headword location(s)
break (v.) Old form(s): breake
fail to keep, default on Headword location(s)
break (v.) Old form(s): breake , breakes
go bankrupt, become insolvent Headword location(s)
break (v.) Old form(s): breake
open, begin, get on with Headword location(s)
break in (v.)
burst in, enter abruptly see also Stage directions Headword location(s)
break off (v.) Old form(s): breake , breake off
stop talking, finish a discussion Headword location(s)
break off (v.) Old form(s): breake
bring to an end, relieve Headword location(s)
break out (v.) Old form(s): breake
rush out, come out Headword location(s)
break up (v.) Old form(s): Breake
burst open, break through Headword location(s)
break up (v.) Old form(s): Breake vp
break, open [a seal] Headword location(s)
break up (v.) Old form(s): breake vp
break out of, rise up from Headword location(s)
break up (v.) Old form(s): Breake vp
cut up, carve Headword location(s)
breaking (n.)
bankruptcy, insolvency Headword location(s)
break-neck (n.) Old form(s): breake-neck
total ruin, destruction, disaster Headword location(s)
break-promise (n.) Old form(s): breake-promise
promise-breaker Headword location(s)
break-vow (n.) Old form(s): breake-vow
breaker of promises Headword location(s)
breast (n.) Old form(s): Brest
heart Headword location(s)
breast (n.)
singing voice, pair of lungs Headword location(s)
breath (n.)
utterance, speech, voice Headword location(s)
breath (n.)
vigour, spirit, energy Headword location(s)
breath (n.)
easy breathing, power to breathe Headword location(s)
breath (n.)
voice, song, sound Headword location(s)
breath (n.)
breathing-space, respite Headword location(s)
breath (n.)
life, spirit, living and breathing existence Headword location(s)
breath (n.)
suggestion, persuasion, judgement Headword location(s)
breath (n.)
breather, exercising, breath of fresh air Headword location(s)
breathe (v.) Old form(s): breath
allow to breathe, rest Headword location(s)
breathe (v.) Old form(s): breath , breath'd
speak, utter, talk Headword location(s)
breathe (v.) Old form(s): breath , breathd
catch breath, pause, rest Headword location(s)
breathe (v.) Old form(s): breath
exercise, exhaust, tire out Headword location(s)
breathe out (v.)
speak, utter Headword location(s)
breathed (adj.) Old form(s): breath'd
strong-winded, well-exercised see also well-breathed (adj.) Headword location(s)
breathed (adv.) Old form(s): breath'd
exercised, extended, exerted Headword location(s)
breather (n.)
living being, creature Headword location(s)
breather (n.)
speaker, utterer Headword location(s)
breathing (adj.)
verbal, word-of-mouth Headword location(s)
breathing (adj.)
exercise Headword location(s)
breathing (adj.)
living, active, lively Headword location(s)
breathing (n.)
words, utterance, expression Headword location(s)
breathing (n.)
blowing, exhalation, blast Headword location(s)
breathing (n.)
delay, interval, pause Headword location(s)
breathing (n.)
exercise, exertion, active employment Headword location(s)
breathing while (n.)
breathing-space, short space of time Headword location(s)
breathless (adj.) Old form(s): breathlesse
lifeless, dead Headword location(s)
breech (n.)
[in expressions] see also blow wind in the breech Headword location(s)
breech (n.)
buttocks, behind Headword location(s)
breech (n.)
breeches, trousers [representing the authority of the husband] Headword location(s)
breech (v.) Old form(s): preeches
flog, whip on the behind see also Welsh Headword location(s)
breech (v.) Old form(s): breech'd
cover [as if with breeches] Headword location(s)
breeching (adj.)
subject to be flogged; novice, beginner Headword location(s)
breed (n.) Old form(s): breede
sort, kind, type Headword location(s)
breed (n.)
lineage, inheritance, stock Headword location(s)
breed (n.)
children, offspring Headword location(s)
breed (v.), past form bred
increase, grow, multiply Headword location(s)
breed (v.), past form bred Old form(s): Breedes
raise, bring up, support Headword location(s)
breed (v.), past form bred
cherish, nurture, bring into existence Headword location(s)
breed (v.), past form bred
develop, go on, happen Headword location(s)
breed out (v.)
exhaust through breeding, become degenerate Headword location(s)
breed-bate (n.) Old form(s): breede-bate
trouble-maker, one who makes mischief see also bate-breeding (adj.) Headword location(s)
breeder (n.)
father, source, originator, author Headword location(s)
breeder (n.)
child-bearer, female Headword location(s)
breeding (n.)
raising, upbringing Headword location(s)
breeding (n.)
education, proper training Headword location(s)
breeding (n.)
ancestry, parentage, noble lineage Headword location(s)
breese, breeze (n.) Old form(s): Brieze
gadfly Headword location(s)
breff (adj.)
Scottish pronunciation of 'brief' see also Scottish Headword location(s)
Bretagne (n.)
Brittany, NW France see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
brew (v.)
dilute, water down Headword location(s)
brewage (n.)
[drink] brew, concoction, mixture Headword location(s)
brewed (adj.) Old form(s): brew'd
matured, made up, ready to appear Headword location(s)
brew-house (n.)
outhouse used for brewing liquor Headword location(s)
briar (n.) Old form(s): briers
thorn, prickly branch Headword location(s)
Briareus (n.)
[bri'arius] son of Uranus and Gaea; legendary monster with 100 arms and 50 heads who fought and defeated the Titans for Zeus see also Classical mythology Headword location(s)
bribed (adj.) Old form(s): brib'd
stolen, thieved, poached Headword location(s)
briber (n.)
price paid, incentive, inducement Headword location(s)
bridal (n.) Old form(s): Bridall
wedding, marriage Headword location(s)
bride (n.)
bridegroom, spouse Headword location(s)
bride (v.)
marry, wed Headword location(s)
bride (v.)
play the bride Headword location(s)
bride-habited (adj.) Old form(s): bride habited
dressed as a bride Headword location(s)
bridehouse (n.)
house where a wedding is held Headword location(s)
Bridge, the
London Bridge, over the River Thames see also London Headword location(s)
bridle (v.)
curb, restrain, keep control of Headword location(s)
brief (adj.) Old form(s): breefe, breefest , briefe
quick, speedy, swift, expeditious Headword location(s)
brief (adj.) Old form(s): briefe
[unclear meaning] rife, widespread; pressing, urgent Headword location(s)
brief (adv.) Old form(s): briefe
hurriedly, rapidly, in a rush Headword location(s)
brief (adv.) Old form(s): briefe
in short, briefly, in sum Headword location(s)
brief (n.) Old form(s): breefe
epitome, embodiment Headword location(s)
brief (n.)
letter, dispatch, message Headword location(s)
brief (n.) Old form(s): breefe, priefe
summary, short account Headword location(s)
brief (n.) Old form(s): briefe
summary; contract Headword location(s)
brief and the long / tedious, the Old form(s): breefe , breff
the long and the short Headword location(s)
brief, in Old form(s): briefe
quickly, speedily, expeditiously Headword location(s)
briefly (adv.) Old form(s): briefely
a little while ago, a short time past Headword location(s)
briefly (adv.) Old form(s): briefely
quickly, soon, in a moment Headword location(s)
briefness (n.) Old form(s): briefenes , Briefenesse
speedy action, promptness Headword location(s)
brim (n.)
edge, border, margin Headword location(s)
brimmed (adj.) Old form(s): Brymd
filled to the brim, brimful Headword location(s)
brinded (adj.)
streaked, striped, tabby Headword location(s)
brine (n.) Old form(s): bine
salt water [i.e. tears] Headword location(s)
brine (n.) Old form(s): bryne
sea water, sea Headword location(s)
brine-pit (n.)
salt-pit Headword location(s)
bring (v.)
lead, go, conduct [someone] Headword location(s)
bring (v.)
persuade, induce, cause Headword location(s)
bring (v.) Old form(s): broght
train, bring up, rear Headword location(s)
bring (v.)
accompany, conduct, escort Headword location(s)
bring (v.)
inform, report, tell Headword location(s)
bring (v.)
derive, receive, acquire Headword location(s)
bring (v.)
bring forth, give birth to Headword location(s)
bring about (v.)
complete, bring the end to [a period of time] Headword location(s)
bring away (v.)
fetch, bring along Headword location(s)
bring down (v.) Old form(s): downe
reduce, lower Headword location(s)
bring forth (v.)
express, utter, voice Headword location(s)
bring forth (v.)
put on display, set up in public Headword location(s)
bring in (v.)
tavern call for food and drink Headword location(s)
bring in (v.)
reinstate, appoint to a position Headword location(s)
bring off (v.)
rescue, save, deliver Headword location(s)
bring out (v.)
deprive, divest, dispossess Headword location(s)
bring out (v.)
bring on to the stage see also Stage directions Headword location(s)
bring up (v.) Old form(s): vp
raise, breed, rear Headword location(s)
bringing up (n.) Old form(s): vp
upbringing, breeding Headword location(s)
bringing-forth (n.) Old form(s): bringings forth
achievement, accomplishment, public deed Headword location(s)
brinish (adj.) Old form(s): brynish
salt, bitter Headword location(s)
brisk (adv.) Old form(s): briske
sprucely, smartly, finely dressed Headword location(s)
brisky (adj.)
brisk, lively, sprightly Headword location(s)
Bristow, Bristol (n.)
city-port in SW England, close to the mouth of the R Severn see also Britain [outside London] Headword location(s)
Britain (adj.) Old form(s): Britaine , Brittaine
living in Brittany, from Brittany Headword location(s)
Britain (n.) Old form(s): Britaines, Brittaines
[pron: 'briten] Breton, person from Brittany Headword location(s)
Britaine (n.)
[pron: 'briten] Brittany, NW France Headword location(s)
Britany (n.)
early form of the name Britain see also Britain [outside London] Headword location(s)
British (adj.)
Breton, from Brittany, NW France see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
Brittaine, Britaine, Brittayne (n.)
Brittany, NW France see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
broach (v.) Old form(s): broach'd
draw out, set flowing, cause to spurt out [by piercing] Headword location(s)
broach (v.) Old form(s): broachd , broacht
pierce, impale, spit Headword location(s)
broach (v.) Old form(s): broach'd
start, bring out, open up Headword location(s)
broach (v.) Old form(s): broach'd
raise, introduce into conversation Headword location(s)
broached (adj.)
newly begun, freshly started Headword location(s)
broad (adj.)
unrestrained, free, boisterous Headword location(s)
broad (adj.)
widespread, far-reaching, widely diffused Headword location(s)
broad (adj.)
plain, candid, frank Headword location(s)
broad (adj.)
high and mighty, arrogant Headword location(s)
broad (adj.)
plain, evident, obvious Headword location(s)
broad (adv.)
completely, fully Headword location(s)
broad (adv.)
plainly, candidly, freely Headword location(s)
broad-fronted (adj.) Old form(s): Broad-fronted
with a broad forehead or face Headword location(s)
brock (n.) Old form(s): brocke
badger [contemptuous]; stinker, dirty rat Headword location(s)
brogue (n.)
poor person's roughly made shoe Headword location(s)
broil (n.) Old form(s): broile, Broiles, broyle, Broyles
turmoil, confused fighting, battle Headword location(s)
broil (n.) Old form(s): broiles, broyle, broyles
quarrel, row, disturbance Headword location(s)
broil (v.)
subject to great heat; also: be engaged in a struggle Headword location(s)
broil (v.) Old form(s): broyles
bask, glow, warm [from] Headword location(s)
broke (v.)
bargain, negotiate, trade Headword location(s)
broken (adj.)
disjointed, fragmentary, disconnected Headword location(s)
broken (adj.)
fragmentary, left-over Headword location(s)
broken (adj.)
fallen out, with the relationship in pieces Headword location(s)
broken (adj.)
broken in [as a horse]; or: in pieces [as of teeth] Headword location(s)
broken (adj.)
arranged for different groups of instruments Headword location(s)
broken (adj.)
interrupted, disturbed, disrupted Headword location(s)
broken (adj.)
bankrupt, ruined, insolvent Headword location(s)
broker, broker-between (n.) Old form(s): Broakers, brokers betweene
go-between, intermediary, agent Headword location(s)
broker-lackey (n.) Old form(s): broker, lackie
abject go-between, pander [sic] Headword location(s)
broking (adj.) Old form(s): broaking
acting as a broker, bargain-dealing Headword location(s)
brooch (n.)
jewel, ornament Headword location(s)
brooch (v.) Old form(s): brooch'd
adorn, beautify, display as an ornament Headword location(s)
brood (n.)
children, offspring Headword location(s)
brood, on
brooding, moping Headword location(s)
brooded (adj.)
[unclear meaning] full of brooding Headword location(s)
brook (v.) Old form(s): brook'd , brooke , brookes
endure, tolerate, put up with Headword location(s)
brook (v.)
enjoy, find, feel about Headword location(s)
brook (v.) Old form(s): brook'd, brooke , Brookes
allow, permit, bear Headword location(s)
broom-grove (n.) Old form(s): broome-groues
grove of broom [a yellow-flowered shrub] Headword location(s)
broomstaff (n.) Old form(s): broome staffe
broomstick Headword location(s)
brother (n.)
relative, relation, kinsman see also Family Headword location(s)
brother (n.)
equal, fellow, peer Headword location(s)
brother (n.)
fellow-councillor, close adviser Headword location(s)
brother, second
younger son Headword location(s)
brother, sworn Old form(s): sworne, sworne Brother
companion-in-arms, devoted friend Headword location(s)
brotherhood (n.) Old form(s): Brother-hoods
guild, fraternity, society Headword location(s)
brought abed / to bed
delivered of a child see also abed / to bed, brought Headword location(s)
brow (n.) Old form(s): Browes
appearance, aspect, countenance see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
brow (n.) Old form(s): browes
eyebrow Headword location(s)
brow (n.)
overlooking shore, high-lying coast Headword location(s)
brow (n.) Old form(s): browes
height, peak, pinnacle Headword location(s)
brow (n.) Old form(s): Browes
forehead [often plural, referring to the two prominences of the forehead] Headword location(s)
brow (n.)
bold front, confidence, effrontery Headword location(s)
brow-bind (v.)
wreathe around the brow Headword location(s)
brown (adj.) Old form(s): broune
brunette, brown-haired Headword location(s)
brown (adj.)
bronze-coloured, burnished Headword location(s)
brown (adj.) Old form(s): browne
of dark complexion, sunburnt, burnished Headword location(s)
Brownist (n.)
follower of Robert Browne, founder of a 16th-c religious sect advocating a new form of church government see also Contemporary figures, factual and fictitious Headword location(s)
browny (adj.)
brownish Headword location(s)
browse (v.) Old form(s): brouz , brows'd
feed upon, nibble at, eat [as animals] Headword location(s)
bruise (v.)
squeeze, crush, put pressure on Headword location(s)
bruise (v.)
crush, smash, destroy Headword location(s)
bruising (adj.)
crushing, damaging, crippling Headword location(s)
bruit (n.) Old form(s): bruite
news, rumour, tidings Headword location(s)
bruit (v.) Old form(s): bruite , bruted
report, announce, proclaim Headword location(s)
brunt (n.)
shock, violence, ferocity Headword location(s)
brush (n.)
hostile meeting, collision, forceful encounter Headword location(s)
Brutus, Lucius
Lucius Junius Brutus, founder of the Roman republic in 509 BC see also Historical figures Headword location(s)
Brutus, Marcus
Marcus Junius Brutus; 1st-c BC Roman politician, involved in the assassination of Julius Caesar see also Historical figures Headword location(s)
Brutus, Marcus
Marcus Junius Brutus; 1st-c BC Roman politician, involved in the assassination of Julius Caesar see also Julius Caesar 1 Headword location(s)
bubble (n.)
empty thing, pretty sham, deceptive show Headword location(s)
bubukle, bubuncle (n.)
[malapropism for ‘bubo’ and ‘carbunkle’] inflamed swelling Headword location(s)
buck (n.) Old form(s): buckes
laundry, quantity of soiled clothes Headword location(s)
buck-basket (n.) Old form(s): bucke-basket
basket for dirty laundry Headword location(s)
bucket (n.)
beam, yoke [for hoisting or carrying] Headword location(s)
bucking (n.)
washing, laundry Headword location(s)
buckle (v.)
grapple, engage, fight at close quarters Headword location(s)
buckle (v.)
hold together, fasten [as with a buckle] Headword location(s)
buckle (v.)
prepare for battle, engage in warfare Headword location(s)
buckle in (v.)
enclose, limit, circumscribe Headword location(s)
buckler (n.)
small round shield see also Weapons Headword location(s)
buckler (v.)
shield, protect, defend Headword location(s)
buckler (v.)
exchange, grapple, couple; catch or ward off [blows] Headword location(s)
Bucklersbury (n.)
East End street with aromatic herb shops, near Mansion House, London see also London Headword location(s)
buckram, buckrom (n./adj.) Old form(s): Buckrom
rough cloth, coarse linen Headword location(s)
buckram, buckrom (n./adj.)
stiff, starched, stuck-up Headword location(s)
buck-washing (n.)
process of washing very dirty clothing in an alkaline mix [buck] Headword location(s)
bud out (v.)
develop, spring forth, turn out Headword location(s)
budge, bodge (v.)
flinch, shrink, move away Headword location(s)
budge, bodge (v.) Old form(s): bodg'd , bouge
give way, retreat Headword location(s)
budger (n.)
flincher, shrinker, mover away Headword location(s)
budget (n.) Old form(s): Bowget
tool-bag, pouch Headword location(s)
buff (n.) Old form(s): buffe
[of a uniform] stout ox-hide leather Headword location(s)
buff jerkin Old form(s): Buffe Ierkin, Buffe- Ierkin
close-fitting jacket made of buff worn by constables and soldiers see also jerkin (n.) Headword location(s)
buffet (n.)
blow, stroke, knock Headword location(s)
buffet (v.)
beat, strike, cuff Headword location(s)
buffet (v.)
beat back, contend with Headword location(s)
buffet (v.)
fight, struggle, deal blows Headword location(s)
bug (n.) Old form(s): Bugge , Bugges
bogey, bugbear, imaginary terror Headword location(s)
bug (n.)
object of terror, terrifying force Headword location(s)
bugbear (n.) Old form(s): bug-beare
hobgoblin, bogeyman Headword location(s)
bugle (adj.)
bead-like, beady, glittering Headword location(s)
bugle-bracelet (n.)
bracelet adorned with ornamental tube-shaped glass beads Headword location(s)
building (n.) Old form(s): buylding
position, fixed place, location Headword location(s)
building (n.)
build, construction Headword location(s)
building (n.) Old form(s): Buildings
edifice, construction Headword location(s)
bulk (n.) Old form(s): bulke
body, trunk, frame Headword location(s)
bulk (n.) Old form(s): Bulkes
projecting part of a building, structure for displaying goods at the front of a shop Headword location(s)
bulk (n.) Old form(s): bulke
weight, magnitude, capacity Headword location(s)
Bull (n.)
Taurus, the second sign of the zodiac, associated with cuckoldry, and also the neck and throat see also Cosmos Headword location(s)
bull-beef (n.) Old form(s): Bul Beeues
joint of beef [reputed to give strength] Headword location(s)
bullet (n.) Old form(s): bulletts
cannon-ball Headword location(s)
bull's-pizzle (n.)
bull's penis see also pizzle (n.) Headword location(s)
bully (n./adj.)
[especially as a warm form of address] fine fellow, good friend see also Address forms Headword location(s)
bully rook (n.) Old form(s): Bully-Rooke, Rooke
merry comrade, good mate, old rogue Headword location(s)
bulwark (n.) Old form(s): Bulwarke , bulwarkes
rampart, fortification Headword location(s)
bulwark (n.) Old form(s): Bulwarke
shelter, safeguard, means of escape Headword location(s)
bum-baily, bum-bailiff (n.) Old form(s): bum-Baylie
bailiff, sheriff's officer [who catches people by sneaking up behind them] Headword location(s)
bumbard (n.)
large leather wine-jug see also bombard (n.) Headword location(s)
bumbast (n.)
wool padding; also: high-flown language see also bombast, bumbast (n.) Headword location(s)
bumbast (n.)
wool padding; also: high-flown language see also bombast, bumbast (adj.) Headword location(s)
bunch-backed (adj.) Old form(s): bunch-back'd , Bunch-backt
hunchbacked Headword location(s)
bung (n.)
pickpocket; also: hole-stopper [penis] Headword location(s)
buoy up (v.) Old form(s): buoy'd vp
surge, swell, rise up Headword location(s)
bur, burr (n.) Old form(s): Burres
prickly, clinging seedpod see also Plants Headword location(s)
bur, burr (n.)
[prickly, clinging seedpod] thing difficult to shake off Headword location(s)
bur, burr (n.) Old form(s): Burres
clinger, person difficult to shake off Headword location(s)
burbolt (n.)
short blunt-headed arrow for shooting birds see also bird-bolt (n.) Headword location(s)
burden, burthen (n.)
refrain, chorus Headword location(s)
burden, burthen (n.) Old form(s): burthen
birth, state of pregnancy Headword location(s)
burden, burthen (n.)
bass accompaniment [in a song] Headword location(s)
burden, burthen (n.)
capacity, load, weight Headword location(s)
burden, burthen (n.)
load, pile [here: of hair] Headword location(s)
burden, burthen (v.)
charge, accuse, lay on Headword location(s)
burden, burthen (v.) Old form(s): burthend , burthens
load down, weigh down Headword location(s)
burdened, burthened (adj.) Old form(s): burthen'd
burdensome, heavy, oppressive Headword location(s)
burdenous (adj.) Old form(s): burthenous
burdensome, onerous, oppressive Headword location(s)
burden-wise (adv.) Old form(s): burthen-wise
in the manner of a musical accompaniment Headword location(s)
burgher (n.) Old form(s): Burgers
citizen, inhabitant, denizen Headword location(s)
burgomaster (n.) Old form(s): Bourgomasters
borough-master, town official Headword location(s)
burgonet (n.) Old form(s): Burganet
[type of] small light helmet see also Body-armour Headword location(s)
burial (n.) Old form(s): Buriall
burial service, funeral solemnities Headword location(s)
burial (n.) Old form(s): buriall
grave, tomb, burial chamber Headword location(s)
burly-boned (adj.) Old form(s): burly bon'd
hulking, big-bodied Headword location(s)
burn (v.) Old form(s): burnes
infect [with venereal disease] Headword location(s)
burn (v.) Old form(s): burne
suffer from venereal disease Headword location(s)
burn (v.) Old form(s): burne
waste, fritter away Headword location(s)
burn (v.) Old form(s): burne
warm up, spice up Headword location(s)
burnet (n.)
type of meadow flower see also Plants Headword location(s)
burning zone
inter-tropical domain encircling the earth see also Cosmos Headword location(s)
burning zone
inter-tropical domain encircling the earth see also zone, burning Headword location(s)
burnt (adj.) Old form(s): burn'd
mulled, heated Headword location(s)
burr (n.)
prickly, clinging seedpod see also bur (n.) Headword location(s)
burst (adj.)
broken, shattered, rent in two Headword location(s)
burst (n.)
bursting out, violent outbreak Headword location(s)
burst (v.)
crack, split open Headword location(s)
burst (v.)
break, smash Headword location(s)
burthen (n.)
earlier spelling of ‘burden’ see also burden, burthen (n.) Headword location(s)
burthen (n.)
earlier spelling of ‘burden’ see also burden, burthen (v.) Headword location(s)
Burton (n.)
town in the English Midlands, on the River Trent Headword location(s)
bury (v.) Old form(s): burie , buryed
abandon forever, consign to oblivion, eliminate Headword location(s)
bury (v.)
conceal, hide, make inaccessible Headword location(s)
bush (n.)
tavern sign-board, advertisement Headword location(s)
business (n.) Old form(s): busines , Businesse
deed, action, affair, task Headword location(s)
business (n.) Old form(s): businesse
concern, uneasiness, distress Headword location(s)
business (n.) Old form(s): busines
event, happening, occurrence Headword location(s)
business (n.) Old form(s): businesse
important matter, serious concern Headword location(s)
business (n.) Old form(s): businesse
mission, errand, purpose Headword location(s)
buskined (adj.) Old form(s): buskin'd
wearing high hunting boots [buskins] Headword location(s)
busky (adj.)
bosky, bushy, shrub-covered Headword location(s)
buss (n.)
kiss Headword location(s)
buss (v.) Old form(s): busse
kiss wantonly, smack against Headword location(s)
bustling (adj.) Old form(s): bussling
confused, agitated, excited Headword location(s)
busy (adj.) Old form(s): busie
interfering, meddlesome, busy-bodying Headword location(s)
busy (adj.) Old form(s): busie
always engaged, active, constantly occupied Headword location(s)
but (adv.)
merely, only Headword location(s)
but (adv.)
just Headword location(s)
but (conj.)
except, otherwise than Headword location(s)
but (conj.)
except that, only with the result that Headword location(s)
but (conj.)
unless, if ... not Headword location(s)
but (conj.)
without Headword location(s)
but (conj.)
that Headword location(s)
butcherly (adv.)
brutally, cruelly, savagely Headword location(s)
butchery (n.) Old form(s): butcherie
slaughter-house Headword location(s)
butler (n.)
servant in charge of the wine cellar Headword location(s)
butt (n.) Old form(s): But
buttock, bottom Headword location(s)
butt (n.)
ramshackle boat, tub, hulk Headword location(s)
butt (n.) Old form(s): But
large cask, barrel Headword location(s)
butt (n.)
goal, aim, target [as in archery] Headword location(s)
butt-end (n.)
fag-end, final part, remaining piece Headword location(s)
butter (v.)
spread butter on Headword location(s)
butter-woman (n.)
[woman who deals in butter, dairy-maid] chatterer, gabbler Headword location(s)
buttery (n.) Old form(s): Butterie
store-room [for provisions], liquor-store Headword location(s)
buttery bar Old form(s): Buttry barre
ledge by the hatch of a buttery [liquor store] Headword location(s)
button (n.)
bud Headword location(s)
button (n.)
knob at the top of a cap or hat see also Clothing Headword location(s)
buttoned (adj.)
fitted out with buttons, studded, bossed Headword location(s)
buttons, in one's
[unclear meaning] very plain, easy to see Headword location(s)
butt-shaft (n.) Old form(s): Butshaft , but-shaft
blunt-headed arrow Headword location(s)
buxom (adj.) Old form(s): bucksome, buxome
lively, cheerful, bright Headword location(s)
buy (v.)
pay for, suffer the consequences of Headword location(s)
buy and sell, past form bought and sold Old form(s): solde
betray, exploit, treat treacherously Headword location(s)
buy out (v.)
redeem, pay ransom to / for Headword location(s)
buy out (v.) Old form(s): buyes
make up for, cancel out Headword location(s)
buy out (v.) Old form(s): Buyes
get rid of, cancel by making a payment Headword location(s)
buzz (int.)
impatient request for silence (usually because news is already known) see also Attention signals Headword location(s)
buzz (int.)
impatient request for silence (usually because news is already known) see also Exclamations Headword location(s)
buzz (int.)
impatient request for silence (usually because news is already known) see also Responses Headword location(s)
buzz (n.) Old form(s): buz, buzze
rumour, whisper, report Headword location(s)
buzz (v.) Old form(s): buzd , buzze
spread, move about, send Headword location(s)
buzz (v.) Old form(s): Buz
spread false rumours Headword location(s)
buzzard (n.)
ignoramus, stupid person; also: inferior kind of hawk Headword location(s)
buzzard (n.) Old form(s): buzard
[unclear meaning] night-flying insect; cockchafer Headword location(s)
buzzer (n.)
rumour-monger, gossiper Headword location(s)
buzzing (n.)
rumour, busy murmuring Headword location(s)
by (adv.)
near by, close at hand Headword location(s)
by (adv.)
aside, out of the way Headword location(s)
by (prep.)
according to Headword location(s)
by (prep.)
concerning, about Headword location(s)
by (prep.)
compared with Headword location(s)
by (prep.)
with regard to Headword location(s)
by (prep.)
on Headword location(s)
by (prep.)
at the house of Headword location(s)
by (prep.)
as a result of, because of Headword location(s)
by (prep.)
see also Swearing Headword location(s)
by and by (adv.)
immediately, straightaway, directly Headword location(s)
by and by (adv.)
shortly, soon, before long Headword location(s)
by any means Old form(s): meanes
certainly, indeed Headword location(s)
by that (conj.)
by the fact that Headword location(s)
by-dependance (n.)
side-issue, incidental point Headword location(s)
by-drinking (n.)
drinking between meals Headword location(s)
by-fold (adj.)
twofold, double see also bifold (adj.) Headword location(s)
bygone (adj.)
that has just gone by, yesterday Headword location(s)
byle, bile (n.)
older forms of ‘boil’ Headword location(s)
by-past (adj.)
former, elapsed, previous Headword location(s)
by-peep (v.) Old form(s): by peeping
peep sideways, look aside Headword location(s)
by-room (n.) Old form(s): by-roome
side-room, private room Headword location(s)
by-word (n.)
object of scorn, model of cowardice Headword location(s)
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