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
ha (int.)
see also Exclamations Headword location(s)
ha' (v.)
contracted form of ‘have’ Headword location(s)
haberdasher (n.) Old form(s): Habberdashers
dealer in small articles relating to clothing Headword location(s)
haberdepois (n.)
weight, state of heaviness see also avoirdupois (n.) Headword location(s)
habiliment, abiliment (n.) Old form(s): Habilliament
(usually plural) clothes, dress, attire, outfit Headword location(s)
habit (n.) Old form(s): habite , habites
dress, clothing, costume see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
habit (n.) Old form(s): habite
behaviour, bearing, demeanour Headword location(s)
habit (n.)
covering, guise, adorning Headword location(s)
habit (n.) Old form(s): habite
routine, settled practice, regular behaviour Headword location(s)
habit (v.)
dress, clothe, costume Headword location(s)
habited (adj.)
clothed, dressed, clad Headword location(s)
habitude (n.)
character, disposition, temperament Headword location(s)
hack (v.) Old form(s): hac, hacke
[unclear meaning] be promiscuous, go whoring Headword location(s)
hackney (n.) Old form(s): Hacknie
prostitute, harlot, whore Headword location(s)
hackneyed (adj.)
[in compounds] see also common-hackneyed (adj.) Headword location(s)
hade land (n.) Old form(s): head-land
strip of land left unploughed in a field Headword location(s)
hadst (v.)
2nd person singular, past tense of 'have' see also Verb forms Headword location(s)
hag (n.)
witch, sorceress Headword location(s)
hag (n.)
malicious sprite, wicked fairy Headword location(s)
Hagar (n.)
[pron: 'haygahr] in the Bible, bondwoman to Sarah, whose child was Ishmael, a 'wild-ass of a man' see also Religious personalities and beings Headword location(s)
hag-born (adj.) Old form(s): hag-borne
born of a witch Headword location(s)
haggard (adj.)
wild, unmanageable, untrainable Headword location(s)
haggard (n.) Old form(s): Haggerds
[falconry] wild hawk Headword location(s)
haggard-like (adj.) Old form(s): huggard like
wild, unmanageable, untrainable Headword location(s)
haggish (adj.)
like a hag, ugly, repulsive Headword location(s)
haggle (v.) Old form(s): hagled
mangle, hack, lacerate Headword location(s)
hag-seed (n.)
witch-child Headword location(s)
hail (int.)
greeting to monarchs see also Greetings Headword location(s)
hair (n.) Old form(s): haire , Heire
character, nature, kind Headword location(s)
hair (n.) Old form(s): hayres
[product stuffed with hair] tennis-ball Headword location(s)
hair (n.) Old form(s): haire
jot, iota, trace Headword location(s)
hair / hair's breadth, to a Old form(s): haires bredth, hayre
in every little detail, in full, exactly Headword location(s)
hair, against the Old form(s): haire
against the grain, contrary to inclination Headword location(s)
hair-worth (n.) Old form(s): hayre worth
hair's worth Headword location(s)
halberd (n.) Old form(s): Halbert
long-handled weapon ending in a combination of axe-blade and spearhead see also Weapons Headword location(s)
halberd (n.)
person armed with a halberd Headword location(s)
halcyon (n.) Old form(s): Halcion
kingfisher Headword location(s)
hale (v.) Old form(s): Hal'd , Hall'd
drag, pull, haul Headword location(s)
hale (v.) Old form(s): haild
molest, drag about, push around Headword location(s)
half (n.) Old form(s): halfe
other half, wife Headword location(s)
half, be one's Old form(s): halfe
go half-shares with one, share the stake with one Headword location(s)
half-blooded (adj.)
of only one noble parent; bastard Headword location(s)
half-blown (adj.) Old form(s): halfe-blowne
half-blossomed see also blown (adj.) 1 Headword location(s)
half-cap (n.) Old form(s): halfe-caps
half removal of the cap by way of negligent courtesy Headword location(s)
half-cheek (n.) Old form(s): halfe cheeke
profile, side-view Headword location(s)
half-cheeked (adj.) Old form(s): halfe-chekt
[horse-riding] with broken side-rings [cheeks]; or: halfway up the cheeks Headword location(s)
half-face (n.)
profile, side-view Headword location(s)
half-faced (adj.) Old form(s): halfe-fac'd
imperfect, incomplete, defective Headword location(s)
half-faced (adj.) Old form(s): halfe-fac'd
thin-faced, with a pinched look Headword location(s)
half-faced (adj.) Old form(s): halfe-fac'd
[of a coin] showing a monarch's profile; also: clipped, imperfect Headword location(s)
half-faced (adj.) Old form(s): halfe-fac'd
with only half the face visible Headword location(s)
half-kirtle Old form(s): halfe Kirtles
skirt [lower part of a kirtle] see also Clothing Headword location(s)
half-kirtle Old form(s): halfe Kirtles
skirt [lower part of a kirtle] see also kirtle (n.) Headword location(s)
half-malcontent (adj.)
somewhat discontented, disaffected, dissatisfied see also malcontent (adj.) Headword location(s)
half-part (n.) Old form(s): halfe part
half each, fair shares Headword location(s)
halfpence (n.) Old form(s): halfpence
fragment, tiny piece, bit Headword location(s)
halfpence (n.)
silver coin worth half of one penny see also Money Headword location(s)
half-sight (n.) Old form(s): Halfe sights
someone half-blind Headword location(s)
half-supped (adj.) Old form(s): halfe supt
with supper interrupted, half-satisfied Headword location(s)
half-sword, at Old form(s): halfe Sword
at the length of a small-sized sword, at close quarters see also Weapons Headword location(s)
half-worker (n.) Old form(s): halfe-workers
co-worker, cooperator, collaborator Headword location(s)
half-world (n.) Old form(s): halfe World
hemisphere, half of the globe Headword location(s)
halidom, by my
what I hold holy; or: Our Lady see also Swearing Headword location(s)
hall (n.)
guild, company, profession Headword location(s)
halloing (n.)
shouting, hallooing, crying out see also hallowing (n.) Headword location(s)
halloo (v.)
shout, yell, cry out see also hallow (v.) Headword location(s)
hallow (v.)
bless, glorify, honour as holy Headword location(s)
hallow, holloa, hollow (v.) Old form(s): halloa, hallow'd , holloa'd
shout, yell, cry out Headword location(s)
hallow, holloa, hollow (v.)
follow with shouts, call after Headword location(s)
hallowed (adj.)
blessed, consecrated see also well-hallowed (adj.) Headword location(s)
hallowed verge Old form(s): hallow'd
magic circle, charmed ring Headword location(s)
hallowing, hallooing, halloing, holloing (n.) Old form(s): hallowing, hollowing
shouting, hallooing, crying out Headword location(s)
Hallowmas (n.)
in Christian tradition, All Saints' Day, 1 November see also Days and dates Headword location(s)
halt (v.)
limp, proceed lamely Headword location(s)
halter (n.)
rope with a noose [for hanging] Headword location(s)
halter (n.)
rope, noose [for leading a beast] Headword location(s)
haltered (adj.) Old form(s): halter'd
with a noose around it Headword location(s)
halting (adj.)
hesitating, limping, faltering Headword location(s)
halting (adj.)
wavering, dilatory, shifting Headword location(s)
halting (n.)
hesitation, wavering, faltering Headword location(s)
hammer (v.) Old form(s): hamering
think hard, deliberate, ponder Headword location(s)
hammer of (v.)
think hard about, ponder on Headword location(s)
hammer out (v.)
puzzle out, work hard at, work out Headword location(s)
hamper (v.)
impede, obstruct, fetter Headword location(s)
Hampton (n.)
Southampton; port city in Hampshire see also Britain [outside London] Headword location(s)
hams (n.) Old form(s): Hammes
thighs, legs Headword location(s)
hand (n.)
agency, means, aid Headword location(s)
hand (n.)
ability, skill [with the hand] Headword location(s)
hand (n.)
handwriting see also court-hand (n.) Headword location(s)
hand (n.)
care, escort, keeping Headword location(s)
hand (n.)
handiwork, job, work Headword location(s)
hand (n.)
signature, written authorization Headword location(s)
hand (v.)
lay hands on, handle, have to do with Headword location(s)
hand, at
at the start of a race Headword location(s)
hand, at / in any
in any case, at any rate Headword location(s)
hand, in
to deal with, here present Headword location(s)
hand, out of
at once, immediately, straight away Headword location(s)
hand, out of
finished with, off one's hands Headword location(s)
handfast, hand-fast (n.)
marriage contract, betrothal see also fast (adj.) 3 Headword location(s)
handfast, in Old form(s): hand-fast
held fast, in custody, under arrest Headword location(s)
hand-in-hand (adj.) Old form(s): hand in hand
claiming equality, equally balanced Headword location(s)
handkercher (n.) Old form(s): hand-kercher , Hand-kerchers
handkerchief Headword location(s)
hands, of all
on every side Headword location(s)
handsaw (n.)
heron [probably a variant of ‘heronshaw’, i.e. a young heron] Headword location(s)
handsome (adj.)
naturally graceful, artlessly elegant Headword location(s)
handsome (adj.) Old form(s): hansom
proper, fitting, appropriate Headword location(s)
handsomely (adv.)
beautifully, elegantly, attractively Headword location(s)
handsomely (adv.) Old form(s): hansomely
conveniently, opportunely, readily to hand Headword location(s)
handsomeness (n.) Old form(s): handsomnesse
graciousness, courtesy, decent behaviour Headword location(s)
handy-dandy
choose, make your choice [from the children's game: choosing which hand holds an object] Headword location(s)
hang (v.)
suspend, hold off, put off Headword location(s)
hang off (v.)
leave hold, stop clinging Headword location(s)
hang the lip
look vexed, pout, sulk see also lip, hang the Headword location(s)
hang together (v.)
keep in one piece, carry on existing Headword location(s)
hanged (adj.) Old form(s): hangde
decorated with hangings, furnished with tapestries Headword location(s)
hanged, be
exclamation of impatience, irritation see also Exclamations Headword location(s)
hanger (n.)
loop or strap attached to a sword belt, from which a sword may be hung see also Weapons Headword location(s)
hanging (adj.)
gloomy, morose, melancholy Headword location(s)
hanging (n.)
wall-covering, tapestry, curtain Headword location(s)
hangman (adj.)
fit for the hangman, infernal, diabolical Headword location(s)
hangman (n.) Old form(s): hang-man
rascal, rogue, reprobate Headword location(s)
Hannibal (n.) Old form(s): Hanniball
malapropism for ‘cannibal’ Headword location(s)
Hannibal (n.)
Carthaginian general, 3rd-c BC see also Historical figures Headword location(s)
hap (n.) Old form(s): happe, happes
fortune, lot, fate Headword location(s)
hap (n.)
luck, chance, accident Headword location(s)
hap (n.)
happening, event, occurrence Headword location(s)
hap (v.) Old form(s): happ'd
happen, take place, come to pass Headword location(s)
hapless (adj.) Old form(s): haples , haplesse
luckless, unfortunate, unlucky Headword location(s)
haply (adv.) Old form(s): haplie , Hap'ly, Haplye , happely , Happlie
perhaps, maybe, by chance, with luck see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
haply (adv.) Old form(s): haplie , Hap'ly, Haplye , happely , Happlie
perhaps, maybe, by chance, with luck see also happily (adv.) 1 Headword location(s)
happen (v.)
happen to, befall Headword location(s)
happily (adv.) Old form(s): happely, happilie
perhaps, by chance, maybe see also haply (adv.) Headword location(s)
happily (adv.)
fittingly, appropriately, aptly Headword location(s)
happily (adv.) Old form(s): happilie
opportunely, propitiously, with good fortune Headword location(s)
happiness (n.) Old form(s): happinesse
felicity, aptness, appropriateness [of expression] Headword location(s)
happiness (n.) Old form(s): happines , happinesse
good luck, success, good fortune Headword location(s)
happiness (n.) Old form(s): happines
pleasing demeanour, felicitous manner Headword location(s)
happy (adj.) Old form(s): happie
opportune, appropriate, propitious, favourable Headword location(s)
happy (adj.) Old form(s): happie
fortunate, lucky, favoured Headword location(s)
happy (adj.)
accomplished, favoured, proficient Headword location(s)
happy (adj.)
well-chosen, felicitous, fitting Headword location(s)
happy (v.) Old form(s): happies
make happy, delight, content Headword location(s)
happy time, in Old form(s): happie
well met Headword location(s)
happy time, in
coming just at the right time see also time, in good 2 Headword location(s)
harbinger (n.) Old form(s): harbenger, Herbenger, Herbinger
forerunner, herald, precursor Headword location(s)
harbour (n.) Old form(s): harber
shelter, refuge, safe lodging Headword location(s)
harbour (v.) Old form(s): harbor
lodge, stay, shelter Headword location(s)
harbourage (n.) Old form(s): harborage
shelter, refuge, haven Headword location(s)
hard (adj.)
difficult, not easy [to obtain] Headword location(s)
hard (adj.)
painful, harrowing, tough Headword location(s)
hard (adj.)
unpleasant, harsh, cruel Headword location(s)
hard (adj.)
strong, tough, powerful Headword location(s)
hard (adj.)
tough, unfeeling, unsentimental Headword location(s)
hard (adj.)
hardened, toughened Headword location(s)
hard (adj.)
bad, poor, inadequate Headword location(s)
hard (adj.)
pressing, persistent, unremitting Headword location(s)
hard (adv.)
earnestly, vigorously, energetically Headword location(s)
hard (adv.)
close, near Headword location(s)
hard (adv.)
badly, poorly, ill Headword location(s)
hard (adv.)
with difficulty, not easily Headword location(s)
hard-a-keeping (adj.)
too hard to keep Headword location(s)
hard-favoured (adj.) Old form(s): Hard fauor'd , Hard fauourd , hard fauour'd, hard fauoured , hard-fauourd, hard-fauour'd
ugly, unattractive, unsightly, hideous see also well-favoured (adj.) Headword location(s)
hardiment (n.)
display of valour, daring deed Headword location(s)
hardiness (n.) Old form(s): Hardinesse
boldness, daring, audacity, courage Headword location(s)
hardly (adv.) Old form(s): hardely
with great difficulty, only with difficulty Headword location(s)
hardly (adv.)
severely, harshly, badly Headword location(s)
hardness (n.) Old form(s): Hardnesse
hardship, adversity, harsh situation Headword location(s)
hardness (n.) Old form(s): hardnesse
difficulty of understanding Headword location(s)
hardoke (n.)
variety of weedy plant, possibly burdock see also Plants Headword location(s)
hard-ruled (adj.) Old form(s): hard rul'd
difficult to manage, obstreperous Headword location(s)
hardy (adj.) Old form(s): hardie
bold, daring, forward Headword location(s)
hare-heart (n.)
heart as timid as a hare Headword location(s)
Harfleur (n.)
[pron: 'ahrfler] town in Normandy, N France; besieged by Henry V in 1415 see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
Ha'rfordwest (n.)
Haverfordwest; town in Pembrokeshire, SW Wales see also Britain [outside London] Headword location(s)
hark (v.)
listen see also Attention signals Headword location(s)
harlot (adj.)
lewd, lascivious, licentious Headword location(s)
harlot (n.)
prostitute, whore Headword location(s)
harlotry (adj.)
trashy, tawdry, third-rate Headword location(s)
harlotry (n.)
[affectionate] little wretch, baggage Headword location(s)
harlotry (n.)
harlot, whore Headword location(s)
harm (n.) Old form(s): harme, harmes
misfortune, affliction, trouble Headword location(s)
harm (n.) Old form(s): harme , harmes
injury, hurt, pain Headword location(s)
harmful (adj.) Old form(s): harmefull
perilous, dangerous, full of harm Headword location(s)
harmless (adj.) Old form(s): harmelesse , harmlesse
innocent, causing no harm Headword location(s)
harness (n.) Old form(s): Harneis
armed men, men-at-arms, armament Headword location(s)
harness (n.) Old form(s): harnesse
armour Headword location(s)
harness (v.) Old form(s): harnest
dress in armour, arm, equip Headword location(s)
harnessed (adj.) Old form(s): harness'd
armoured, armed Headword location(s)
harp (v.) Old form(s): harp'd
guess, express in words, give voice to Headword location(s)
harper (n.)
harpist, minstrel Headword location(s)
harpy (n.) Old form(s): Harpie
mythical rapacious bird, half woman, half vulture [symbolizing divine retribution] Headword location(s)
harrow (v.) Old form(s): harrowes
disturb, distress, vex Headword location(s)
harrow up (v.) Old form(s): vp
disturb, distress, vex Headword location(s)
harry (v.)
mistreat, harass, ill-use Headword location(s)
Harry ten shillings
coin (from the reign of Henry VII) valued at five shillings see also Money Headword location(s)
hart (n.)
male deer Headword location(s)
harvest-home (n.) Old form(s): Haruest home
close of the harvesting season Headword location(s)
harvest-home (n.) Old form(s): haruest-home
gathering-in, moment of success Headword location(s)
hast (v.)
2nd person singular, present tense of 'have' see also Verb forms Headword location(s)
haste (v.) Old form(s): hasts
hurry, speed up, accelerate Headword location(s)
haste-post-haste (adj.)
with all possible speed, very prompt, most expeditious see also post-haste (adj.) Headword location(s)
hasty (adj.) Old form(s): hastie
rash, impetuous, impulsive Headword location(s)
hasty-witted (adj.) Old form(s): hastie witted
quick-witted, quick-thinking Headword location(s)
hatch (n.)
hatching [as from an egg] Headword location(s)
hatch (n.)
lower part of a door, half-door, gate Headword location(s)
hatch (n.)
(plural) movable deck planks Headword location(s)
hatched (adj.) Old form(s): hatch't
with the upper half closed Headword location(s)
hatched (adj.) Old form(s): hatch'd
inlaid, streaked, ornamented Headword location(s)
hatchet (n.)
executioner's axe Headword location(s)
hatchment (n.)
[heraldry] tablet displaying a person's coat-of-arms Headword location(s)
hateful (adj.) Old form(s): hatefull
full of hate Headword location(s)
hateful (adj.) Old form(s): hatefull
repulsive, obnoxious, incompatible [with] Headword location(s)
hath (v.)
3rd person singular, present tense of 'have' see also Verb forms Headword location(s)
haud...
I don't believe it see also Latin Headword location(s)
haught (adj.)
haughty, arrogant, high and mighty Headword location(s)
haughty (adj.) Old form(s): haughtie
high-minded, aspiring, lofty Headword location(s)
haunch (n.)
latter end, hind part Headword location(s)
haunt (n.)
public places, society, company Headword location(s)
haunt (n.)
frequent resort, regular visit Headword location(s)
haunt (v.) Old form(s): hanted
frequent, visit habitually Headword location(s)
haunt (v.) Old form(s): hant
pursue, afflict, beset Headword location(s)
hautboy (n.) Old form(s): Hoboyes , Hoeboy
type of musical instrument; oboe see also Stage directions Headword location(s)
have (v.) Old form(s): haue
understand, grasp, comprehend Headword location(s)
have (v.)
[in expressions] see also lief, had as Headword location(s)
have (v.) Old form(s): haue
take, convey; or: have to do [with] Headword location(s)
have (v.) Old form(s): haue
be given Headword location(s)
have (v.) Old form(s): haue
[said at the start of a confrontation or attack; more usually: have at] I come Headword location(s)
have after (v.) Old form(s): Haue
let's follow Headword location(s)
have at (v.) Old form(s): haue
[said at the start of a fencing attack or other confrontation] I come at, let me at [a person] see also have-at-him (n.) Headword location(s)
have at (v.)
let's face, let's see Headword location(s)
have at (v.)
[to someone] expression initiating a mock-hostile exchange see also Discourse markers Headword location(s)
have at it Old form(s): Haue
let's try it, let's have a go at it Headword location(s)
have done Old form(s): haue
put an end to, stop Headword location(s)
have to Old form(s): Haue
I'll move forward to, I'll go onwards to Headword location(s)
have to't Old form(s): haue too
let's go at it, let's renew the fight Headword location(s)
have with you Old form(s): Haue
I'll join you, I'll be with you see also Discourse markers Headword location(s)
have-at-him (n.)
thrust see also have at you Headword location(s)
haven (n.) Old form(s): Hauen
harbour, port Headword location(s)
haver (n.) Old form(s): hauer
possessor, holder, displayer Headword location(s)
having (n.) Old form(s): hauing
fortune, estate, means Headword location(s)
having (n.) Old form(s): hauings
accomplishment, quality, gift Headword location(s)
haviour (n.) Old form(s): hauior , hauiour
behaviour, manner, demeanour Headword location(s)
havoc (n.) Old form(s): hauocke
[in fighting and hunting: calling for] total slaughter, general devastation Headword location(s)
hawk (v.) Old form(s): hauking
clear the throat noisily Headword location(s)
hawk (v.) Old form(s): Hawke
hunt with hawks Headword location(s)
hawk at (v.) Old form(s): hawke, hawkt
pursue, attack, chase Headword location(s)
hawking (adj.)
hawk-like, sharp, alert Headword location(s)
hawthorn-bud (n.) Old form(s): hauthorne buds
young dandy, budding courtier Headword location(s)
hay (n.)
hay-making, harvest Headword location(s)
hay (n.)
[fencing] home thrust, thrust through Headword location(s)
hay (n.) Old form(s): hey
type of winding country dance Headword location(s)
hazard (n.)
[gambling] chance, fortune; throw [of dice] Headword location(s)
hazard (n.) Old form(s): hazzard
risk, peril, danger Headword location(s)
hazard (n.)
[royal tennis] opening in a court where a ball is unplayable [and thus a winning point is scored] Headword location(s)
hazard (v.)
expose to danger, put at risk Headword location(s)
hazard (v.)
put into the hands of, make dependent on Headword location(s)
hazard (v.)
expose to risk, take one's chance [of] Headword location(s)
hazard, come / go to Old form(s): goe
play dice, gamble Headword location(s)
hazard, in
in peril, at risk Headword location(s)
hazards, upon all
against any odds Headword location(s)
he (n.) Old form(s): hee
man, person Headword location(s)
head (n.)
arrow-head Headword location(s)
head (n.)
advancing crowd of insurgents, uprising Headword location(s)
head (n.)
headway, progress, advance Headword location(s)
head (n.)
fighting force, army, body of troops Headword location(s)
head (n.)
surface, surge, swell Headword location(s)
head (n.)
leader, chief, director Headword location(s)
head (n.)
headland, cape, promontory Headword location(s)
head (n.)
commander, officer, captain Headword location(s)
head (n.)
power, strength, scope Headword location(s)
head (n.)
source, origin, fountainhead Headword location(s)
head (n.)
category, topic, heading Headword location(s)
head (n.)
[in expressions] see also turn head Headword location(s)
head (n.)
[in expressions] see also take head from Headword location(s)
head and front
height and breadth, greatest extent Headword location(s)
head, at
head on [with an enemy] Headword location(s)
head, of the first
[of deer] with antlers first developed Headword location(s)
head, take the
act without restraint, make a rush forward Headword location(s)
head, to one's
to one's face, frankly, openly Headword location(s)
headborough (n.)
parish officer, town constable see also thirdborough (n.) Headword location(s)
headed (adj.)
having come to a head, full-grown, matured Headword location(s)
heading (n.)
beheading Headword location(s)
headlong (adv.)
head downwards, without ceremony Headword location(s)
head-lugged (adj.)
pulled along by the ears; or: baited, tormented see also lugged (adj.) Headword location(s)
headly (adj.)
violent, weighty, raging see also heady (adj.) 1 Headword location(s)
headpiece (n.) Old form(s): Head-peece
head-covering Headword location(s)
headpiece (n.) Old form(s): Head-peece
brain, intellect Headword location(s)
headstall (n.)
part of a horse's bridle that goes over the head Headword location(s)
heady (adj.) Old form(s): headdy , headly
violent, weighty, raging Headword location(s)
heady (adj.)
reckless, headstrong, impulsive Headword location(s)
heady-rash (adj.) Old form(s): headie-rash
hasty-headed, full of reckless thoughts see also rash (adj.) 3 Headword location(s)
health (n.)
well-being, benevolence Headword location(s)
health (n.)
well-being, prosperity Headword location(s)
health (n.)
well-being, deliverance Headword location(s)
health (n.)
toast, salutation in drink Headword location(s)
health (n.)
well-being, safety Headword location(s)
healthful (adj.) Old form(s): healthfull
healthy, wholesome, fit [in health] Headword location(s)
heap (n.) Old form(s): heape
company, host, multitude Headword location(s)
heap, on a Old form(s): heape
in ruins Headword location(s)
heaps, on Old form(s): heapes
in a mass, all together Headword location(s)
hear on (v.)
listen further to Headword location(s)
hearer (n.)
playgoer, audience Headword location(s)
hearing (n.)
news, report, spectacle Headword location(s)
hearken (v.) Old form(s): harkens
listen [to], pay attention [to] Headword location(s)
hearken (v.) Old form(s): harkning
be on the lookout, await an opportunity Headword location(s)
hearken after (v.) Old form(s): Harken
inquire into, find out about Headword location(s)
hearken after (v.) Old form(s): harken
hanker for, be attracted to Headword location(s)
hearken for (v.) Old form(s): hearkned
look forward to, lie in wait for Headword location(s)
hearken for (v.)
desire, be attracted to Headword location(s)
hearsed (adj.) Old form(s): hearst , hersed
coffined, placed in a hearse Headword location(s)
heart (n.)
utmost, maximum Headword location(s)
heart (n.)
spirit, soul, essence see also Discourse markers Headword location(s)
heart (n.)
courage, spirit, valour Headword location(s)
heart (n.)
(plural) grand-hearted lads, fine companions Headword location(s)
heart (n.)
[term of endearment] sweetheart, beloved, love see also Address forms Headword location(s)
heart (n.)
[term of endearment] dear friend Headword location(s)
heart, for my
for my life Headword location(s)
heart, in
[in making a toast] in good spirits, in a spirit of fellowship Headword location(s)
heart, out of
in poor condition, lacking in strength; also: lacking inclination Headword location(s)
hearted (adj.)
heartfelt, spirited, full of vigour Headword location(s)
hearted (adj.)
seated in the heart, heart-centred Headword location(s)
hearten up (v.) Old form(s): heartens vp
encourage, cheer up, animate Headword location(s)
heartless (adj.) Old form(s): hartlesse , heartlesse
cowardly, gutless, spiritless Headword location(s)
heartlings (n.)
dear heart see also Swearing Headword location(s)
heart-offending (adj.)
heart-damaging Headword location(s)
heart-whole (adj.) Old form(s): heart hole
with affections uncommitted, with the heart uninvolved Headword location(s)
hearty (adj.)
loving, devoted, sincere Headword location(s)
heat (n.) Old form(s): heate
anger, rage, passion Headword location(s)
heat (n.) Old form(s): heate
urgency, intensity, force Headword location(s)
heat (n.) Old form(s): heate
desire, passion, libido Headword location(s)
heat (n.) Old form(s): heate
normal body temperature Headword location(s)
heat (v.)
race over, speed across Headword location(s)
heat, in the Old form(s): heate
while feeling heated, while worked up Headword location(s)
heated (adj.)
angry, inflamed, enraged, aroused Headword location(s)
heath (n.)
heather Headword location(s)
heave (n.) Old form(s): heaues
deep sigh, heaving [of the chest] Headword location(s)
heave (v.) Old form(s): heau'd , heaue, heaued , heaues
raise, lift up Headword location(s)
heave (v.) Old form(s): heaue
throw, toss, cast Headword location(s)
heave up (v.) Old form(s): heau'd vp, heaueth vp
raise, lift up Headword location(s)
heaved-up (adj.) Old form(s): heau'd vp , heaued-vp
raised, lifted up see also up-heave (v.) Headword location(s)
heavenly (adj.)
beautiful, delightful, sublime Headword location(s)
heavenly (adj.)
divine, celestial Headword location(s)
heavens (n.) Old form(s): heauens
[covering over the rear of a stage] sky Headword location(s)
heavens (n.) Old form(s): Heauens
powers above, will of heaven Headword location(s)
heavily (adv.) Old form(s): heauily
sorrowfully, sadly, gloomily Headword location(s)
heaviness (n.) Old form(s): heauines, heauinesse
sadness, grief, sorrow Headword location(s)
heaviness (n.) Old form(s): Heauinesse
sleepiness, drowsiness Headword location(s)
heaving (adj.) Old form(s): heauing
swelling, aroused, agitated Headword location(s)
heaving (n.) Old form(s): heauings
groan, deep sigh Headword location(s)
heavy (adj.) Old form(s): heauie , heauier , heauiest , heauy
grave, serious, weighty Headword location(s)
heavy (adj.) Old form(s): heauie , heauier , heauiest , heauy
sorrowful, sad, gloomy see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
heavy (adj.) Old form(s): heauie, heauier, heauy
weary, exhausted, worn out Headword location(s)
heavy (adj.) Old form(s): heauy
slow-moving, sluggish, laggard Headword location(s)
heavy (adj.) Old form(s): heauie , heauier , heauy
pressing, weighty, overpowering Headword location(s)
heavy (adj.) Old form(s): heauie , Heauy
gloomy, dark, overcast Headword location(s)
heavy (adj.) Old form(s): heauie
troublesome, iniquitous, heinous Headword location(s)
heavy (adj.) Old form(s): heauie , heauy
brutal, oppressive, wicked Headword location(s)
heavy (adj.) Old form(s): heauier
weighed down, burdened, laden Headword location(s)
heavy (adj.) Old form(s): heauie , heauy
tedious, tiresome, uninteresting Headword location(s)
heavy (adj.) Old form(s): heauy
difficult, hard, laborious Headword location(s)
heavy-gaited (adj.) Old form(s): heauie-gated
ponderously walking, clumsy-moving Headword location(s)
hebona (n.) Old form(s): Hebenon
poisonous plant [identity not known, perhaps henbane] see also Plants Headword location(s)
Hecat, Hecate (n.)
[pron: 'hekat, 'hekatee] Greek goddess of the underworld; associated with magic, ghosts, witchcraft see also Gods and goddesses Headword location(s)
hectic (n.) Old form(s): Hecticke
wasting fever, persistent fever Headword location(s)
Hector (n.)
son of Priam, married to Andromache; the bravest Trojan, who led out their army to battle see also Classical mythology Headword location(s)
Hector (n.)
son of Priam, married to Andromache; the bravest Trojan, who led out their army to battle see also Priam (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
Hecuba (n.)
wife of Priam, King of Troy, and mother of 18 children; after the Greeks took Troy, she saw her sons and her husband killed, and was sent into slavery. see also Classical mythology Headword location(s)
Hecuba (n.)
wife of Priam, King of Troy, and mother of 18 children; after the Greeks took Troy, she saw her sons and her husband killed, and was sent into slavery. see also Priam (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
hedge (v.)
protect, surround Headword location(s)
hedge (v.)
evade, be devious, prevaricate Headword location(s)
hedge (v.)
deviate from a straight path, shift direction Headword location(s)
hedge in (v.)
restrict, confine, limit Headword location(s)
hedge out (v.)
exclude, keep out, shut out Headword location(s)
hedge-pig (n.) Old form(s): Hedge-Pigge
hedgehog Headword location(s)
hedge-priest (n.)
[contemptuous] roadside cleric, uneducated priest Headword location(s)
heed (n.) Old form(s): heede
consideration, care, attention Headword location(s)
heed (n.)
that which one heeds; or: guardian Headword location(s)
heedful (adj.) Old form(s): heedfull
attentive, receptive, alert Headword location(s)
heedful (adj.) Old form(s): heedefull'st , heedfull
careful, mindful, watchful Headword location(s)
heedfully (adv.)
attentively, carefully, conscientiously Headword location(s)
heedfully (adv.) Old form(s): heedfullie
with anxious attention, apprehensively Headword location(s)
heedless (adj.) Old form(s): heedlesse
careless, slack, inattentive Headword location(s)
heel (n.) Old form(s): heele
end, completion, termination Headword location(s)
heels, at Old form(s): heeles
close behind, in close pursuit Headword location(s)
heels, by the Old form(s): heeles
in the stocks, in irons Headword location(s)
heels, out at Old form(s): heeles
penniless, destitute, in desperate straights Headword location(s)
heels, take my Old form(s): heeles
take to my heels, run away Headword location(s)
heft (n.)
heaving, retching Headword location(s)
heigh (int.)
exclamation of encouragement see also Exclamations Headword location(s)
heigh, hey (int.)
nonsense word used in song, expressing joy, delight see also Singing Headword location(s)
heigh-ho, hey-ho (int.)
exclamatory sigh expressing weariness, disappointment see also Exclamations Headword location(s)
height (n.) Old form(s): hight
rank, high birth, high degree Headword location(s)
height (n.) Old form(s): hight
maximum, highest amount, utmost degree Headword location(s)
height (n.) Old form(s): higth
[navigation] altitude, elevation Headword location(s)
heightened (adj.) Old form(s): heighten'd
exalted, elevated, raised up Headword location(s)
heighth (n.)
variant spelling of ‘height’ Headword location(s)
heinous (adj.) Old form(s): heynous
calamitous, terrible, severe Headword location(s)
heinously (adv.) Old form(s): heynously
atrociously, shockingly, dreadfully Headword location(s)
heir (n.) Old form(s): Heires , heyre
offspring, progeny, fruit Headword location(s)
heir general (n.) Old form(s): Heire Generall
heir from either male or female lines Headword location(s)
Helen (n.)
woman renowned for her beauty, whose abduction from the Greeks by Paris of Troy caused the Trojan War see also Classical mythology Headword location(s)
Helen (n.)
mother of Constantine the Great, 3rd-c; St Helena see also Historical figures Headword location(s)
Helicons (n.)
nine Muses from the slopes of Mt Helicon, daughters of Zeus and Mnemosyne, who give artistic inspiration see also Classical mythology Headword location(s)
Helicons (n.)
nine Muses from the slopes of Mt Helicon, daughters of Zeus and Mnemosyne, who give artistic inspiration see also Muse (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
Hellespont (n.)
['helespont] Dardanelles; narrow strait in NW Turkey, connecting the Aegean Sea and the Sea of Marmara see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
Hellespont (n.)
['helespont] Dardanelles; narrow strait in NW Turkey, connecting the Aegean Sea and the Sea of Marmara see also Leander (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
Hellespont (n.)
['helespont] Dardanelles; narrow strait in NW Turkey, connecting the Aegean Sea and the Sea of Marmara see also Hero (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
hell-hated (adj.)
hated as hell is hated Headword location(s)
hell-kite (n.)
kite from hell, hellish savage see also kite (n.) Headword location(s)
helm (n.) Old form(s): Helme, Helmes
helmet see also Body-armour Headword location(s)
helm (n.) Old form(s): Helmes
helmsman, guide, pilot Headword location(s)
helm (n.)
covering of hair Headword location(s)
helm (v.)
guide, steer, direct Headword location(s)
help (n.) Old form(s): helpe
treatment, cure, relief Headword location(s)
help (v.) Old form(s): helpes
restore, succour, cure Headword location(s)
help, at Old form(s): helpe
in our favour, ready to help Headword location(s)
helpless (adj.) Old form(s): helpelesse , helplesse
unavailing, useless, unprofitable Headword location(s)
hem (int.)
[drinking call] make a noise like ‘ahem’; clear the throat Headword location(s)
hem (int.)
make a noise like ‘hmm’ Headword location(s)
hem (n.) Old form(s): hemme
edge, margin, shore Headword location(s)
hem (v.) Old form(s): hemd , hem'd
enclose, surround, confine Headword location(s)
hem (v.)
make a noise like ‘hmm’ or ‘ahem’ see also Sounds Headword location(s)
hem away (v.)
remove, clear away [with a cough or ‘hem’] Headword location(s)
hemlock (n.) Old form(s): Hemlocke
variety of poisonous plant see also Plants Headword location(s)
hempen (adj.)
in clothing made of hemp, rustically attired Headword location(s)
hempen (adj.)
made of hemp Headword location(s)
hempseed (n.)
malapropism for ‘homicide’ Headword location(s)
hence (adv.)
away from here, from this place see also hence, thence, and whence Headword location(s)
hence (adv.)
in the next world Headword location(s)
henceforth (adv.)
from now on, from this time forth see also hence, thence, and whence Headword location(s)
henceforth, from
from now on, from this time forth Headword location(s)
henceforward (adv.)
from now on see also Hence, thence, and whence Headword location(s)
hence-going (n.)
departure, leaving Headword location(s)
henchman (n.)
squire, page of honour Headword location(s)
hent (n.)
clutch, grasp Headword location(s)
hent (v.)
grasp, take hold of Headword location(s)
hent (v.)
reach, arrive at, occupy Headword location(s)
herald (adj.)
message-bearing, acting as a herald Headword location(s)
herald (n.)
messenger, carrier, emissary Headword location(s)
heraldry (n.)
heraldic devices, armorial bearings Headword location(s)
herb (n.) Old form(s): Herbes
plant see also Plants Headword location(s)
herb of grace, herb-grace (n.)
aromatic shrub, associated with repentance see also Plants Headword location(s)
herb of grace, herb-grace (n.)
aromatic shrub, associated with repentance see also rue (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
herblet (n.) Old form(s): Herbelets
little herb Headword location(s)
herb-woman (n.) Old form(s): hearbe-woman
woman who sells herbs Headword location(s)
Hercules (n.)
[Roman form of Heracles] proverbial for his mythical physical strength and miraculous achievements see also Classical mythology Headword location(s)
Hercules (n.)
[Roman form of Heracles] proverbial for his mythical physical strength and miraculous achievements see also Swearing Headword location(s)
Hercules (n.)
[Roman form of Heracles] proverbial for his mythical physical strength and miraculous achievements see also Ercles (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
herdman (n.) Old form(s): heardmen
herdsman Headword location(s)
here (adv.)
[in compounds] see also here, there, and where Headword location(s)
hereabout
around here see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
hereafter (adj.) Old form(s): Heereafter
future, forthcoming, later Headword location(s)
hereafter (adv.) Old form(s): heereafter
after this, in time to come Headword location(s)
hereafter (adv.) Old form(s): heereafter
at some time in the future see also here, there, and where Headword location(s)
here-approach (n.) Old form(s): heere approach
arrival here Headword location(s)
hereby (adv.)
nearby; by this see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
herein (adv.) Old form(s): heerein
in here, in this [matter, situation, etc] see also here, there, and where Headword location(s)
hereof (adv.)
of this, concerning this see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
here-remain (n.) Old form(s): heere remaine
stay, visit, sojourn Headword location(s)
hereto (adv.)
hitherto, up to this time Headword location(s)
heretofore (adv.)
before now, formerly see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
hereupon (adv.)
upon this point, in relation to this matter see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
herewithal (adv.)
along with this, besides this see also Withal and withal Headword location(s)
Herford (n.)
title of the lord of Hereford; city in Herefordshire see also Britain [outside London] Headword location(s)
heritage (n.)
inheritance, legacy Headword location(s)
Hermes (n.)
[pron: 'hermeez] messenger of the Greek gods, often shown wearing winged shoes; inventor of lyre and flute see also Gods and goddesses Headword location(s)
hermit (n.) Old form(s): Ermites
one who prays for another, beadsman Headword location(s)
Hero (n.)
priestess of Aphrodite, in love with Leander see also Classical mythology Headword location(s)
Hero (n.)
priestess of Aphrodite, in love with Leander see also Leander (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
Herod (n.)
in the Bible, a Judean king, portrayed in medieval mystery plays as a wild and angry figure see also Religious personalities and beings Headword location(s)
Herod of Jewry Old form(s): Iurie
out-and-out villain see also Herod (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
heroical (adj.) Old form(s): Heroicall
heroic Headword location(s)
heroical (adj.) Old form(s): heroicall , heroycall
appropriate to the character of a hero Headword location(s)
Hesperides (n.)
[pron: hes'perideez] daughters of the evening star (Hesper), who guard the garden of the gods where the golden apples grow see also Classical mythology Headword location(s)
Hesperus (n.)
the evening star see also Cosmos Headword location(s)
hest (n.)
command, behest, order Headword location(s)
hewgh (int.)
sound made by an arrow through the air see also Sounds Headword location(s)
hey, hey-ho (int.)
nonsense word used in song, expressing joy, delight see also Singing Headword location(s)
hey, hey-ho (int.)
nonsense word used in song, expressing joy, delight see also heigh (int.) Headword location(s)
heyday (n.) Old form(s): hey-day
excited state, youthful wildness Headword location(s)
hey-ho (int.)
exclamatory sigh see also Exclamations Headword location(s)
hey-ho (int.)
exclamatory sigh see also heigh-ho, hey-ho (int.) Headword location(s)
Hibocrates (n.)
Welsh pronunciation of 'Hippocrates', 4th-c BC Greek physician see also Welsh Headword location(s)
hic et...
here and everywhere see also Latin Headword location(s)
hic ibat...
Here ran the SImois; here is the Sigeian land; here stood the lofty palace of old Priam see also select topics / theme Headword location(s)
hic ibat...
Here ran the SImois; here is the Sigeian land; here stood the lofty palace of old Priam see also Latin Headword location(s)
hic jacet
here lies [on a tombstone] Headword location(s)
hick (v.) Old form(s): hic
hiccup [from drinking] Headword location(s)
hide (v.)
disregard, overlook, put out of sight Headword location(s)
hideous (adj.) Old form(s): hidious
terrifying, frightful, horrifying Headword location(s)
hie (v.) Old form(s): high , highes, Hye, hyes
hasten, hurry, speed see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
Hiems (n.) Old form(s): Hyems
[pron: 'hiyemz] winter [personified] Headword location(s)
hig, hag, hog
Welsh pronunciation of Latin 'hic, haec, hoc' see also Welsh Headword location(s)
high (adj.)
lofty, elevated, grand Headword location(s)
high (adj.)
important, major, special Headword location(s)
high (adj.)
proud, haughty, grand Headword location(s)
high (adj.)
sophisticated, elevated, superior Headword location(s)
high (adj.)
noble, dignified, aristocratic Headword location(s)
high (adj.)
very great, extreme Headword location(s)
high (adj.)
built-up, raised Headword location(s)
high (adv.)
fully, altogether Headword location(s)
high-battled (adj.) Old form(s): hye battel'd
in charge of great armies Headword location(s)
high-born (adj.) Old form(s): high-borne
noble, lofty, grand Headword location(s)
high-coloured (adj.) Old form(s): high Conlord
flushed, red-faced Headword location(s)
high-cross (n.) Old form(s): hie crosse
cross in a town centre Headword location(s)
high-day (adj.)
befitting a holiday Headword location(s)
high-day (n.)
day of celebration, festival day, holiday Headword location(s)
high-engendered (adj.) Old form(s): high-engender'd
coming from the heavens, brought into being from above Headword location(s)
higher (adj.)
[unclear meaning] upper, northern Headword location(s)
higher (adv.)
further, longer Headword location(s)
higher (adv.)
[unclear meaning] further afield Headword location(s)
high-judging (adj.) Old form(s): high-iudging
judging from on high Headword location(s)
high-lone (adv.)
upright by oneself, without support Headword location(s)
highly (adv.)
in high style, in an elevated manner Headword location(s)
highly (adv.)
ambitiously, to be in a high position Headword location(s)
highly (adv.)
greatly, crucially, in an important way Headword location(s)
high-minded (adj.)
arrogant, haughty, imperious Headword location(s)
highmost, high-most (adj.)
highest, topmost Headword location(s)
high-pitched (adj.) Old form(s): high picht
high-aspiring Headword location(s)
high-proof (adj.) Old form(s): high proofe
tested to the highest level, of proven strength Headword location(s)
high-repented (adj.) Old form(s): high repented
bitterly repented Headword location(s)
high-resolved (adj.) Old form(s): high resolued
highly determined Headword location(s)
high-sighted (adj.)
high-flying, soaring beyond view Headword location(s)
high-stomached (adj.) Old form(s): High stomackd
proud, haughty, stubborn Headword location(s)
hight (v.)
[archaism] is called see also Archaisms Headword location(s)
high-vaunting (adj.) Old form(s): high vanting
boastful, bragging, loud-mouthed Headword location(s)
high-viced (adj.) Old form(s): high-Vic'd
full of great wickedness Headword location(s)
high-witted (adj.) Old form(s): High witted
quick-witted Headword location(s)
high-wrought (adj.) Old form(s): high wrought
extremely rough, highly turbulent Headword location(s)
hild (v.)
[archaism] held see also Archaisms Headword location(s)
hilding (adj.) Old form(s): hielding
good-for-nothing, worthless Headword location(s)
hilding (n.)
good-for-nothing, worthless individual Headword location(s)
hillo, illo (int.)
falconer's cry to bring a hawk down see also Sounds Headword location(s)
Hinckley, Hunkley (n.)
town NE of Stratford-upon-Avon; location of a large fair see also Britain [outside London] Headword location(s)
hind (n.) Old form(s): Hindes
servant, domestic, worker Headword location(s)
hind (n.) Old form(s): Hinde, Hindes
boor, fellow, rustic, peasant Headword location(s)
hind (n.) Old form(s): Hinde, Hindes
female deer Headword location(s)
hinder legs (n.) Old form(s): hinder-legs
hind legs Headword location(s)
hindmost (adj.)
last to arrive, last in order Headword location(s)
hinge (v.) Old form(s): hindge
bend, make flexible Headword location(s)
hint (n.)
occasion, circumstance, experience Headword location(s)
hint (n.)
opportunity, moment, chance Headword location(s)
hip, of the
with the hips, using his hip Headword location(s)
hip, on / upon the Old form(s): vpon
[wrestling] at a disadvantage, in an unfavourable position Headword location(s)
hipped (adj.) Old form(s): hip'd
with an injured hip, lame Headword location(s)
Hippocrates (n.)
[pron: hi'pokrateez] Greek physician, 4th-c BC see also Historical figures Headword location(s)
Hippolyta (n.)
[pron: hi'polita] queen of the Amazons Headword location(s)
hire (n.) Old form(s): hyre
wages, payment, earnings Headword location(s)
Hiren (n.)
[pron: 'hiyren] character (thought to be of a seductress) in a lost play by George Peele see also Contemporary figures, factual and fictitious Headword location(s)
history (n.) Old form(s): Historie
history play, chronicle, stage drama Headword location(s)
history (n.)
story, tale, narrative Headword location(s)
history (v.) Old form(s): Historie
recount, narrate, relate Headword location(s)
histy (adj.)
frothy, superficial, trivial see also yeasty (adj.) Headword location(s)
hit (n.)
shot, stroke Headword location(s)
hit (v.)
agree, be in accord; or: strive, aim Headword location(s)
hit (v.)
match, fall in [with], coincide [with] Headword location(s)
hit (v.)
hit the mark with, get at, reach Headword location(s)
hit it
words of a song refrain [used in LL IV.i.126] Headword location(s)
hither (adv.)
here, to this place / time / end see also hither, thither, and whither Headword location(s)
hitherto (adv.)
to this extent Headword location(s)
hitherto (adv.)
up to now Headword location(s)
hitherto (adv.)
to this point, up to here see also hither, thither, and whither Headword location(s)
hitherward(s) (adv.)
in this direction, towards this place see also Hither, thither, and whither Headword location(s)
hive (n.) Old form(s): hiue
beehive-shaped head-covering Headword location(s)
hoar (adj.) Old form(s): hoare , hore
grey-white, hoary Headword location(s)
hoar (adj.) Old form(s): hoare
mouldy, musty, rotten Headword location(s)
hoar (v.) Old form(s): Hoare
make white with disease Headword location(s)
Hob and Dick Old form(s): Dicke
every Tom, Dick, and Harry Headword location(s)
hob, nob
give or take, come what may Headword location(s)
Hobbididence (n.)
[pron: hobi'didens] in Christian tradition, the name of a devil see also Religious personalities and beings Headword location(s)
hobby-horse (n.) Old form(s): Hobbey-horse, Hobbie-horse , Holy-Horse
harlot, whore, prostitute Headword location(s)
hobby-horse (n.)
buffoon, clown, joker Headword location(s)
hodge-pudding (n.)
stuffing made of many ingredients Headword location(s)
hogshead (n.) Old form(s): Hogs-head
large cask, barrel [of wine] Headword location(s)
hoise (v.) Old form(s): hoyse
heave up, remove by force Headword location(s)
hoise (v.) Old form(s): Hoys'd
hoist Headword location(s)
hoist (v.) Old form(s): hoyst
launch; or: make go aloft Headword location(s)
hold (n.)
guard, custody, confinement Headword location(s)
hold (n.)
shelter, refuge, sanctuary Headword location(s)
hold (n.)
cell Headword location(s)
hold (n.)
stronghold, castle, fortress Headword location(s)
hold (v.)
stop, cease, hold on Headword location(s)
hold (v.)
survive, last out [until] Headword location(s)
hold (v.)
stand firm, continue, carry on Headword location(s)
hold (v.)
stay unbroken, hold out [in a fight] Headword location(s)
hold (v.)
consider, regard, esteem, value [as] Headword location(s)
hold (v.) Old form(s): holde
bear, tolerate, endure Headword location(s)
hold (v.)
apply, be apt, remain valid Headword location(s)
hold (v.)
hold property, own land Headword location(s)
hold (v.) Old form(s): holdes
keep, preserve, conserve Headword location(s)
hold (v.) Old form(s): holdes
keep, maintain, observe Headword location(s)
hold (v.)
wager, offer as a bet Headword location(s)
hold (v.)
avail, profit, benefit Headword location(s)
hold (v.)
withhold, hold back Headword location(s)
hold hands with Old form(s): Holdes
be equal to, be comparable to Headword location(s)
hold in (v.) Old form(s): holde
keep silence, keep one's mouth shut Headword location(s)
hold it out
keep it up Headword location(s)
hold off (v.)
be reticent, keep distance Headword location(s)
hold on (v.)
carry on, go on with Headword location(s)
hold out (v.)
sustain, maintain, keep up Headword location(s)
hold up (v.) Old form(s): vp
continue, keep going, carry on Headword location(s)
hold up (v.) Old form(s): hold-vp, vp
support, uphold, sustain Headword location(s)
hold-door (adj.) Old form(s): hold-dore
brothel door-keeping Headword location(s)
hold-fast (adj.)
firmly grasping Headword location(s)
holding (n.)
refrain, chorus Headword location(s)
holding (n.)
logic, maintaining, consistency Headword location(s)
holding (n.)
leasehold, tenure, grant of occupation Headword location(s)
holding up (n.) Old form(s): vp
ability to maintain, power of sustaining Headword location(s)
holding-anchor (n.)
[nautical] largest anchor; most stabilizing factor Headword location(s)
hole (n.)
large pit in the ground Headword location(s)
holidam / holidame, by my
what I hold holy; or: Our Lady see also Swearing Headword location(s)
holiday (adj.)
refined, select, genteel see also speak holiday Headword location(s)
holiday time (n.) Old form(s): holly-day-time
best time, prime Headword location(s)
holla (int.)
whoa, stop [to a horse] Headword location(s)
holla, holloa (v.) Old form(s): hallow
halloo, shout, call out [to] Headword location(s)
holland (n.)
fine linen fabric Headword location(s)
hollow (adj.)
empty, false, insincere Headword location(s)
hollow (adj.)
empty, wanting, insubstantial Headword location(s)
hollow (v.)
bless, glorify, honour as holy see also hallow (v.) Headword location(s)
hollowly (adv.)
insincerely, hypocritically, deceitfully Headword location(s)
hollowness (n.) Old form(s): hollownesse
insincerity, hypocrisy, lip-service Headword location(s)
Holmedon (n.)
Humbleton, village in Northumberland see also Britain [outside London] Headword location(s)
holp (v.)
past form of 'help' see also Past tenses Headword location(s)
holy (adj.)
of holiness; also: full of holes Headword location(s)
holy (adj.)
virtuous, upright, of great excellence Headword location(s)
holy tie Old form(s): Tye
marriage Headword location(s)
holy-cruel (adj.) Old form(s): holy cruell
cruel by being holy Headword location(s)
holy-horse (n.)
F alternative to 'hobby-horse' see also hobby-horse (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
Holy-rood day
in Christian tradition, Holy Cross day, 14 September see also Days and dates Headword location(s)
homage (n.)
submission, servility, respectful acknowledgement Headword location(s)
homage (n.)
act of homage, acknowledgement of allegiance Headword location(s)
homager (n.)
one who owes homage, vassal Headword location(s)
home (adv.)
[in expressions] see also lay home Headword location(s)
home (adv.)
fully, thoroughly, unsparingly Headword location(s)
home (adv.)
into the heart of the enemy, to the target Headword location(s)
home (adv.)
directly, forthwith, right away Headword location(s)
home (adv.)
[nautical] back into the ship, away from its hold Headword location(s)
home (adv.)
to the end, to the finish Headword location(s)
home (adv.)
bluntly, to the point, forthrightly Headword location(s)
homely (adj.) Old form(s): homelie
plain-looking, unattractive, ugly Headword location(s)
homely (adj.)
plain, simple, ordinary Headword location(s)
homely (adj.)
fating my humble parentage Headword location(s)
homespun (n.)
wearer of home-made clothing, rustic, yokel Headword location(s)
homicide (n.)
killer of men, murderer, slayer Headword location(s)
honest (adj.)
chaste, pure, virtuous Headword location(s)
honest (adj.)
honourable, respectable, upright Headword location(s)
honest (adj.)
genuine, real, true Headword location(s)
honest (adj.)
innocent, well-intentioned, innocuous Headword location(s)
honestly (adv.)
honourably, commendably, worthily Headword location(s)
honesty (n.) Old form(s): honestie
decency, decorum, good manners Headword location(s)
honesty (n.) Old form(s): Honestie
virtue, chastity Headword location(s)
honesty (n.) Old form(s): honestie
honour, integrity, uprightness Headword location(s)
honesty (n.)
generosity, liberality, hospitality Headword location(s)
honeyseed (n.) Old form(s): hony-seed
malapropism for ‘homicide’ Headword location(s)
honey-stalk Old form(s): honystalke
clover flower [harmful to sheep when eaten too much] Headword location(s)
honeysuckle (adj.) Old form(s): Hony-suckle
malapropism for ‘homicidal’ Headword location(s)
honour (n.) Old form(s): honor, Honors
credit, good name, reputation Headword location(s)
honour (n.) Old form(s): Honor
fame, renown, glory Headword location(s)
honour (n.) Old form(s): Honors
noble rank, position of dignity, title of renown Headword location(s)
honour (n.)
object of honour, source of distinction Headword location(s)
honourable (adj.) Old form(s): honorable
honest, upright, dignified Headword location(s)
honourable (adj.)
noble, distinguished, illustrious Headword location(s)
honoured (adj.) Old form(s): honor'd , honour'd
honourable, dignified, virtuous Headword location(s)
honour-owing (adj.)
honour-owning, honourable Headword location(s)
hood (n.)
[unclear meaning] head-covering, bonnet, mask see also Swearing Headword location(s)
hood (n.)
[unclear meaning] head-covering, bonnet, mask see also jealous-hood (n.) Headword location(s)
hooded (adj.)
[falconry] concealed, masked Headword location(s)
hoodman (n.)
blind man [a call in Blind Man's Buff] Headword location(s)
hoodman-blind (n.) Old form(s): hoodman-blinde
blind-man's buff Headword location(s)
hoodwink (v.) Old form(s): hoodwinke
deceive, delude Headword location(s)
hoodwink (v.) Old form(s): hudwinke
cover up, hide from sight Headword location(s)
hoodwink (v.) Old form(s): hood winkt , hoodwinke
blindfold, cover one's eyes Headword location(s)
hoodwinked (adj.) Old form(s): hood-wink'd, hoodwinkt
blindfolded, made unable to see Headword location(s)
hook (n.) Old form(s): hooke
pike, bill-hook Headword location(s)
hook (n.) Old form(s): hooke
bait, lure, temptation Headword location(s)
hook (v.) Old form(s): hooke
attach, secure, make fast [as with a hook] Headword location(s)
hook on (v.) Old form(s): hooke-on
stay close behind Headword location(s)
hoop (n.) Old form(s): hoope
circular shape, bent posture Headword location(s)
hoop (v.)
shout with astonishment, make an outcry see also whoop (v.) Headword location(s)
hoop (v.) Old form(s): hope
encircle, enclose, enfold Headword location(s)
hope (n.)
prospect, expectation Headword location(s)
hope (n.)
likelihood, possibility Headword location(s)
hope (v.)
expect, anticipate, envisage Headword location(s)
hopeful (adj.) Old form(s): hopefull
hoped-for, anticipated Headword location(s)
hopeful (adj.) Old form(s): hopefull
promising, giving hope of success Headword location(s)
hopeless (adj.) Old form(s): hopelesse
beyond hope, impossible to hope for Headword location(s)
hopeless (adj.) Old form(s): hopelesse
despairing, without hope Headword location(s)
Hoppedance (n.)
[pron: 'hopidans] in Christian tradition, the name of a devil see also Religious personalities and beings Headword location(s)
Horace (n.)
Latin poet, 1st-c BC see also Historical figures Headword location(s)
hor-dock (n.)
Q alternative to 'burdock' see also burdock (n.) Headword location(s)
horn (n.) Old form(s): Hornes
(plural) outgrowths imagined to be on the head of a cuckold see also cuckold (n.) Headword location(s)
horn (n.) Old form(s): horne
type of wind instrument Headword location(s)
horn (n.) Old form(s): horne
drinking-horn Headword location(s)
horn (n.) Old form(s): hornes
horned animal Headword location(s)
horn-beast (n.) Old form(s): horne-beasts
horned animal Headword location(s)
hornbook, horn-book (n.) Old form(s): hornebooke , Horne-booke
[teaching device] leaf of paper, protected by a piece of thin horn, showing the letters of the alphabet and other information Headword location(s)
horning (n.)
giving horns, making a cuckold Headword location(s)
horn-mad (adj.) Old form(s): horne mad, horne-mad
[as of horned beasts] furious, enraged, raving mad Headword location(s)
horn-maker (n.) Old form(s): horne-maker
maker of cuckolds see also cuckold (n.) Headword location(s)
horologe (n.)
clock, dial, timepiece Headword location(s)
horrible (adv.)
extremely, exceedingly, terribly Headword location(s)
horrid (adj.) Old form(s): horride
horrifying, frightful, terrifying Headword location(s)
horridly (adv.)
dreadfully, frightfully, terrifyingly Headword location(s)
horse (n.)
cavalry, horse soldiers Headword location(s)
horse (v.) Old form(s): hors'd
sit astride [as on a horse], straddle Headword location(s)
horse (v.)
mount, put on top of Headword location(s)
horse-drench (n.)
dose of horse medicine Headword location(s)
horse-hairs (n.) Old form(s): Horse-haires
bow-strings Headword location(s)
hose (n.)
[pair of] breeches see also Clothing Headword location(s)
hose (n.)
[pair of] breeches see also boot-hose (n.) Headword location(s)
hose (n.)
[pair of] breeches see also round hose 1 Headword location(s)
hospitable (adj.)
offering hospitality, affording welcome Headword location(s)
host (n.) Old form(s): hoast
army, armed multitude Headword location(s)
host (n.) Old form(s): hoast
inn, lodging, place of shelter Headword location(s)
host (v.)
lodge, stay, put up Headword location(s)
Hostilius (n.)
[pron: hos'tilius] Tullus Hostilius, third king of Rome, 7th-c BC see also Historical figures Headword location(s)
hostler (n.)
ostler, stableman, groom Headword location(s)
hot (adj.)
hot-tempered, angry, passionate Headword location(s)
hot (adj.)
active, vigorous Headword location(s)
hot (adj.)
feverish, heated, burning Headword location(s)
hot (adj.)
enthusiastic, ardent, eager, keen Headword location(s)
hot (adj.)
lecherous, lustful, hot-blooded Headword location(s)
hot (adj.)
fast, hasty Headword location(s)
hot-blooded (adj.) Old form(s): hot-bloodied
lecherous, passionate, lustful Headword location(s)
hot-house (n.)
brothel; bath-house Headword location(s)
hotly (adv.)
angrily, passionately, fiercely Headword location(s)
hotly (adv.)
ardently, desperately, avidly Headword location(s)
hotly (adv.)
urgently, eagerly, fervently Headword location(s)
hour (n.)
[in phrases] see also fair hour Headword location(s)
hour (n.) Old form(s): houres, howres
(plural) fixed time, timetable Headword location(s)
hour (n.) Old form(s): houre
[time of] appointment, engagement, meeting Headword location(s)
hour (n.) Old form(s): howre
time, moment Headword location(s)
hour, in an Old form(s): houre
at the same time Headword location(s)
hourly (adj.) Old form(s): hourely
continual, constant, regular Headword location(s)
hourly (adj.) Old form(s): hourely
constantly, hour by hour Headword location(s)
house (n.)
ancestry, lineage, family Headword location(s)
house (n.) Old form(s): howses
inn, tavern Headword location(s)
house (n.)
household, family Headword location(s)
house (n.)
school of instruction, training school Headword location(s)
house (n.)
housing, sheath, place of rest Headword location(s)
house (n.)
[astrology] heavenly domain [one of twelve divisions of the zodiac] see also Cosmos Headword location(s)
house (v.) Old form(s): hous'd
pursue into a house, drive into a house Headword location(s)
house of profession
brothel, whorehouse Headword location(s)
house-clog (n.) Old form(s): house clogges
prison-restraint, shackle, fetter Headword location(s)
household (adj.) Old form(s): Houshold
throughout the house Headword location(s)
household (adj.) Old form(s): houshold
domesticated, house-trained Headword location(s)
household (n.)
family, house, dynasty Headword location(s)
housekeeper, house-keeper (n.) Old form(s): house-keepers
stay-at-home Headword location(s)
housekeeper, house-keeper (n.) Old form(s): House-keeper
domestic watchdog, housedog Headword location(s)
housekeeper, house-keeper (n.) Old form(s): houskeeper
householder, hospitable person Headword location(s)
housekeeping (n.) Old form(s): Houseekeeping
hospitality, maintaining a welcoming household Headword location(s)
housewife, huswife (n.) Old form(s): huswife , Huswiues
[pron: 'huzif] hussy, wanton, minx Headword location(s)
housewifery (n.) Old form(s): Huswiferie
housekeeping, household management Headword location(s)
hovel (v.) Old form(s): houell
find poor shelter [as in a hovel] Headword location(s)
hovel-post (n.) Old form(s): houell-post
door-post of a hovel see also post (n.) Headword location(s)
hovering (adj.) Old form(s): houering
wavering, hesitating, uncertain Headword location(s)
how (adv.)
how much?, at what rate? Headword location(s)
how (int.)
[used in various discourse functions] see also Exclamations Headword location(s)
how (int.)
[used in various discourse functions] see also Greetings Headword location(s)
how now
exclamation of surprise or reproach see also Exclamations Headword location(s)
howbeit (adv.)
nevertheless, however see also how and how Headword location(s)
howbeit (conj.)
although, though see also How and how Headword location(s)
howbeit that (conj.) Old form(s): how beit
although Headword location(s)
however, howe'er (adv.) Old form(s): How ere
whatever; although, however much see also how and how Headword location(s)
howlet (n.)
young owl, owl see also owlet (n.) Headword location(s)
howsoever, howsoe'er (adv.)
in any case; to whatever extent see also How and how Headword location(s)
howsoever, howsoe'er (adv.)
to whatever extent, in whatever degree see also How and how Headword location(s)
howsomever, howsome'er, how ... some'er (adv.) Old form(s): how someuer , howsoeuer
however, howsoever, in whatever way [+ subordinate clause] see also how and how Headword location(s)
hox (v.)
hamstring, disable, cripple Headword location(s)
hoy (n.)
small coastal ship Headword location(s)
hoyday (int.)
exclamation of contemptuous surprise, impatience see also Exclamations Headword location(s)
hue (n.) Old form(s): hew
appearance, complexion Headword location(s)
hue and cry (n.) Old form(s): huy, and cry
general pursuit [of a felon] Headword location(s)
hug (v.)
bed down, curl up, lie close Headword location(s)
huge (adj.)
great, important, of high rank Headword location(s)
hugger-mugger, in Old form(s): hugger mugger
secretly, stealthily, furtively Headword location(s)
hugy (adj.) Old form(s): hugie
huge, immense, enormous Headword location(s)
hulk (adj.) Old form(s): Hulke
hugely ungraceful, clumsily large Headword location(s)
hulk (n.) Old form(s): Hulke
ship, vessel Headword location(s)
hull (v.)
lie, float, drift [with sails furled] Headword location(s)
hum (v.)
murmur approval, make encouraging noises Headword location(s)
hum (v.) Old form(s): humme
say ‘hum’ [as a sign of displeasure, dissatisfaction, impatience, etc] see also Exclamations Headword location(s)
human (adj.) Old form(s): humane
tender, delicate, gentle Headword location(s)
human (adj.)
worldly, secular, mundane Headword location(s)
humane (adj.)
civil, benevolent Headword location(s)
humane (adj.) Old form(s): Humaine
polite, courteous, refined Headword location(s)
humanely (adv.)
out of fellow feeling, as fellow human beings Headword location(s)
humanity (n.) Old form(s): Humanitie
human potential, manhood Headword location(s)
human-kindness (n.) Old form(s): humane kindnesse
natural feelings, human qualities Headword location(s)
humble (adj.)
low-lying Headword location(s)
humble (adj.)
lowly, ignoble, low Headword location(s)
humble (adj.)
polite, well-mannered, civil Headword location(s)
humble-bee (n.) Old form(s): humble Bee
bumble-bee Headword location(s)
humble-visaged (adj.) Old form(s): humble visag'd
with humble faces Headword location(s)
humidity (n.)
bundle of fluids Headword location(s)
humidity (n.)
moisture, dampness, vapours Headword location(s)
humming (adj.)
murmuring Headword location(s)
humorous (adj.) Old form(s): humerous , humourous
capricious, moody, temperamental Headword location(s)
humorous (adj.) Old form(s): Humerous
humid, damp, moist Headword location(s)
humour (n.) Old form(s): humor , humors
fancy, whim, inclination, caprice Headword location(s)
humour (n.) Old form(s): humor, humors
mood, disposition, frame of mind, temperament [as determined by bodily fluids] see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
humour (n.) Old form(s): Humors
secretion, fluid, juice Headword location(s)
humour (n.) Old form(s): humor , humors
style, method, way, fashion Headword location(s)
humour (n.) Old form(s): humor
sentiment, turn of phrase, manner of expression Headword location(s)
humour (n.)
dampness, vapour, moisture Headword location(s)
humour (v.) Old form(s): humor , humors
like the mood of, find enjoyable, indulge Headword location(s)
humoured (adj.) Old form(s): humour'd
expressing a particular disposition; lying, treacherous Headword location(s)
humour-letter (n.) Old form(s): humor-Letter
letter displaying a particular sentiment Headword location(s)
Hungarian (adj.)
[pun on ‘hungry’] beggarly, thievish Headword location(s)
hungerly (adj.)
sparse, meagre Headword location(s)
hungerly (adv.)
hungrily, greedily, avidly Headword location(s)
hungry (adj.)
barren, sterile, unfertile Headword location(s)
hungry-starved (adj.) Old form(s): hungry-starued
dying with hunger, famished Headword location(s)
Hunkley, Hinckley (n.)
town NE of Stratford-upon-Avon; site of a large fair see also Britain [outside London] Headword location(s)
hunt (n.)
game, quarry that has been killed Headword location(s)
hunt's-up (n.) Old form(s): Hunts-vp
daybreak song to wake huntsmen [or a newly married wife] Headword location(s)
hurdle (n.)
cart, frame [as used for dragging traitors to execution] Headword location(s)
hurly (n.) Old form(s): hurley, hurlie
commotion, uproar, turmoil Headword location(s)
hurly-burly (adj.) Old form(s): hurly burly
hectic, turbulent, stormy Headword location(s)
hurly-burly (n.) Old form(s): Hurley-burley
commotion, uproar, turmoil Headword location(s)
hurricano (n.) Old form(s): Hyrricano's
water-spout Headword location(s)
hurry (n.)
commotion, excitement, activity Headword location(s)
hurt (adj.)
wounded, injured Headword location(s)
hurt (n.)
attack, offence, [causing] damage Headword location(s)
hurt (n.)
wound, injury, scar Headword location(s)
hurtle (v.)
sound violently, resound harshly Headword location(s)
hurtless (adv.) Old form(s): hurtlesse
without hurting, harmlessly Headword location(s)
hurtling (n.)
tumult, violent conflict Headword location(s)
husband (n.)
housekeeper, steward, domestic manager Headword location(s)
husband (v.)
make the most of, thrive well with Headword location(s)
husband (v.)
tend, improve, cultivate Headword location(s)
husband (v.)
manage, handle, look after Headword location(s)
husband-friend (n.)
husband as well as lover Headword location(s)
husbandry (n.)
thrift, good economy, careful management Headword location(s)
husbandry (n.)
industriousness, diligence, eagerness to work Headword location(s)
husbandry (n.)
household work, chores Headword location(s)
husbandry (n.)
farming, land management Headword location(s)
hush (adj.)
hushed, silent, quiet Headword location(s)
husht (int.)
be quiet see also Attention signals Headword location(s)
huswife (n.)
[pron: 'husif] hussy, wanton, minx see also housewife (n.) Headword location(s)
Hybla (n.)
[pron: 'hiybla] town in Sicily, famed for the honey from its nearby hills see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
Hydra (n.)
[pron: 'hiydra] many-headed monster, the child of Typhon and Echnida; as each head was cut off, it grew again see also Classical mythology Headword location(s)
Hydra (n.)
[pron: 'hiydra] many-headed monster, the child of Typhon and Echnida; as each head was cut off, it grew again see also Typhon (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
Hydra-headed (adj.) Old form(s): Hidra-headed
many-headed, multifarious, manifold Headword location(s)
hyen (n.)
hyena Headword location(s)
Hymen (n.)
[pron: 'hiymen] Greek god who led a wedding procession; associated with a torch, crown of flowers, and flute see also Gods and goddesses Headword location(s)
Hymenaeus (n.)
[pron: hiymen'eeus] alternative name for Hymen see also Gods and goddesses Headword location(s)
Hymenaeus (n.)
[pron: hiymen'eeus] alternative name for Hymen see also Hymen (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
hyperbolical (adj.) Old form(s): hyperbolicall
outrageous, immoderate, intemperate Headword location(s)
Hyperion (n.)
[pron: hiy'peerion] Greek god, son of Uranus and Gaia, who fathered the Sun, Moon, and Dawn; often, the Sun itself, with a horse-drawn chariot see also Gods and goddesses Headword location(s)
Hyrcan tiger
[pron: 'herkan] tiger of Hyrcania, proverbial for its ferocity see also Classical mythology Headword location(s)
Hyrcan tiger
[pron: 'herkan] tiger of Hyrcania, proverbial for its ferocity see also Hyrcan, Hyrcania (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
Hyrcan, Hyrcania (n.)
[pron: 'herkan, her'kaynia] ancient region of Asia Minor, in modern Iran see also World [outside Britain], places and peoples Headword location(s)
hysterica passio Old form(s): Historica
[Latin: hysterical passion] hysteria Headword location(s)
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