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
wad (v.)
Scottish pronunciation of 'would' see also Scottish Headword location(s)
wafer-cake (n.)
type of thin, lightweight cake Headword location(s)
waft (v.)
beckon, wave [at], signal Headword location(s)
waft (v.)
turn derisively, direct scornfully Headword location(s)
waft (v.)
carry, convey, transport [over the sea] Headword location(s)
waft over (v.) Old form(s): o're
carry across, transport Headword location(s)
waftage (n.)
passage, conveyance by water Headword location(s)
wafture (n.) Old form(s): wafter
waving, gesture, flourish Headword location(s)
wag (n.) Old form(s): Wagge, wagges
fellow, lad, mischievous boy Headword location(s)
wag (v.) Old form(s): wagge , wagges
move, stir, rouse Headword location(s)
wag (v.)
go off, depart, go on one's way Headword location(s)
wag (v.) Old form(s): wagge
talk foolishly, utter silly remarks Headword location(s)
wage (v.) Old form(s): wadg'd
pay, recompense, reward Headword location(s)
wage (v.)
stake, hazard Headword location(s)
wage (v.) Old form(s): wag'd
struggle, do battle, vie Headword location(s)
wage (v.)
risk, venture upon, engage in Headword location(s)
wage (v.)
compete, be a rival to, measure up to Headword location(s)
waggish (adj.)
playful, mischievous, impish Headword location(s)
waggon, wagon (n.)
carriage, coach Headword location(s)
waggoner, wagoner (n.)
driver, charioteer Headword location(s)
wagtail (n.) Old form(s): wagtaile
[contemptuous form of address] tail-wagger, bower and scraper Headword location(s)
wail (v.) Old form(s): waile , wailes , wayle , Wayling
bewail, lament, grieve [for] Headword location(s)
wailful (adj.) Old form(s): walefull
plaintive, disconsolate, wistful Headword location(s)
wain-rope (n.) Old form(s): waine-ropes
waggon-rope Headword location(s)
wainscot (n.)
wooden panelling Headword location(s)
waist (n.) Old form(s): Waste
middle [of the upper deck], centre see also Ships Headword location(s)
waist (n.) Old form(s): wast, waste
belt, girdle Headword location(s)
wait (v.) Old form(s): waite, wayted
be in attendance, do service Headword location(s)
wait on / upon (v.) Old form(s): waites vpon
follow, obey, pay attention to Headword location(s)
wait on / upon (v.) Old form(s): wayt
go on before, proceed ahead of Headword location(s)
wait on / upon (v.)
depend on, be subject to Headword location(s)
wait on / upon (v.) Old form(s): vpon , waite , waites , waites vpon , waytes vpon
accompany, attend Headword location(s)
wait on / upon (v.)
attend to, pay attention to, not ignore Headword location(s)
wait on / upon (v.) Old form(s): waite vpon
follow in escort, attend Headword location(s)
waiting-gentlewoman (n.)
lady-in-waiting Headword location(s)
wake (n.)
state of wakefulness Headword location(s)
wake (n.)
festival, revel, fete Headword location(s)
wake (v.)
remain awake, stay up Headword location(s)
wake (v.)
urge, arouse; or: trouble, disturb Headword location(s)
wake out (v.)
cause to come out through staying awake Headword location(s)
waked (adj.) Old form(s): wak'd
awakened, aroused, roused Headword location(s)
waking (adj.)
awake, wakeful Headword location(s)
walk (n.) Old form(s): walke
area of a forest under the supervision of a forester Headword location(s)
walk (n.) Old form(s): Walke, walkes
garden path, walkway Headword location(s)
walk (v.)
walk aside, withdraw to duel Headword location(s)
walk (v.) Old form(s): walke
exercise, take out walking Headword location(s)
walk in (v.) Old form(s): walke
come in, enter Headword location(s)
wall (v.)
shut off, block, impede Headword location(s)
wall, take the
take the inside position, keep to the cleaner side of a path Headword location(s)
wallet (n.)
protruding lump, bulging growth Headword location(s)
wallet (n.)
bag, knapsack Headword location(s)
wall-eyed Old form(s): wall-ey'd
with glaring eyes Headword location(s)
wall-newt (n.) Old form(s): wall-Neut
lizard on the wall Headword location(s)
wan (v.)
grow pale, turn pale Headword location(s)
wand (n.)
rod, staff Headword location(s)
wandering (adj.)
straying, erring, disloyal Headword location(s)
wandering (adj.) Old form(s): wandring
[astrology] having its own motion see also Cosmos Headword location(s)
wandering (adj.) Old form(s): wandring
lost, straying from the correct path Headword location(s)
waned (adj.) Old form(s): wained , wand
faded, diminished [in beauty] Headword location(s)
wanion, with a
with a vengeance, with a plague Headword location(s)
wanny (adj.)
wan, pallid, pale Headword location(s)
want (n.)
lack, shortage, dearth Headword location(s)
want (n.)
absence, non-appearance, non-attendance Headword location(s)
want (n.)
need, requirement, necessity Headword location(s)
want (v.) Old form(s): want'st
lack, need, be without see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
want (v.)
miss, feel the loss of Headword location(s)
want (v.) Old form(s): want'st
require, demand, need Headword location(s)
want (v.)
fall short [of], be deficient [in] Headword location(s)
wanting (n.)
needs, wants Headword location(s)
wanton (adj.)
unrestrained, undisciplined, boisterous, uncontrolled Headword location(s)
wanton (adj.)
carefree, light-hearted, frolicsome, playful Headword location(s)
wanton (adj.)
[jocularly] naughty, wicked, mischievous Headword location(s)
wanton (adj.)
feminine; or: child-like Headword location(s)
wanton (adj.) Old form(s): wonton
lascivious, lewd, obscene Headword location(s)
wanton (adj.)
luxuriant, flourishing, lush, profuse in growth Headword location(s)
wanton (adj.)
cruelly irresponsible, badly behaved Headword location(s)
wanton (adj.)
sexually hot, passionate, sportive Headword location(s)
wanton (adj.)
equivocal, ambiguous, uncontrollable Headword location(s)
wanton (adj.)
gay, lively, cheerful Headword location(s)
wanton (adj.)
merciless, cruel, pitiless Headword location(s)
wanton (adj.)
casual, gentle Headword location(s)
wanton (adv.)
lasciviously, lewdly Headword location(s)
wanton (n.)
spoilt child, pampered baby, weakling Headword location(s)
wanton (n.)
libertine, seducer Headword location(s)
wanton (n.)
young rogue, scamp, rascal Headword location(s)
wanton (n.)
wilful creature, obstinate individual Headword location(s)
wanton (n.)
mistress, paramour, lover Headword location(s)
wanton (n.)
harlot, whore Headword location(s)
wanton (v.)
play, sport, frolic Headword location(s)
wantonly (adv.)
playfully, frolicsomely, unrestrainedly Headword location(s)
wantonness (n.) Old form(s): Wantonnesse
foolish behaviour, caprice, whims Headword location(s)
wantonness (n.) Old form(s): wantonesse, wantonnes
libertine, seducer, womanizer Headword location(s)
wantonness (n.) Old form(s): wantonesse, wantonnes, wantonnesse
lust, lasciviousness, promiscuity Headword location(s)
wantons, play the
dally, trifle, sport Headword location(s)
want-wit (adj.)
senseless, stupid, ridiculous Headword location(s)
wappened (adj.) Old form(s): wappen'd
[unclear meaning] worn-out, weary, exhausted [perhaps sexually] Headword location(s)
war (v.) Old form(s): Warre
make war, fight, do battle Headword location(s)
war, town of (n.) Old form(s): Towne, warre
garrison town, fortified town Headword location(s)
ward (n.) Old form(s): warde
cell [in a prison] Headword location(s)
ward (n.) Old form(s): Wardes, word
[fencing] defensive posture, parrying movement Headword location(s)
ward (n.)
person under someone's protection, minor see also ward, in Headword location(s)
ward (n.)
type of political administrative district Headword location(s)
ward (n.)
custody, imprisonment Headword location(s)
ward (n.)
catch inside a lock; lock Headword location(s)
ward (n.)
guard, protection, defence Headword location(s)
ward (v.)
protect, defend, guard Headword location(s)
ward, in
as a ward, under guardianship see also ward (n.) 5 Headword location(s)
warden (adj.)
made from a variety of baking pear Headword location(s)
warder (n.)
guard, sentry, watchman Headword location(s)
warder (n.)
staff, truncheon, baton Headword location(s)
ware (adj.)
aware, conscious, sensible Headword location(s)
ware (adj.)
wary, cautious, guarded Headword location(s)
Ware (n.)
[pron: wair] town in Hertfordshire see also Britain [outside London] Headword location(s)
warm (adj.) Old form(s): warme
well-to-do, affluent, comfortably off Headword location(s)
warm (adj.) Old form(s): warme
warmed, well-aired Headword location(s)
warn (v.) Old form(s): warn'd , warne
summon, send for, officially call Headword location(s)
warn (v.) Old form(s): warne
challenge, confront, defy Headword location(s)
warn (v.)
[unclear meaing] warrant, protect, preserve see also Swearing Headword location(s)
warp (v.) Old form(s): warpe
turn, twist, change Headword location(s)
warp (v.) Old form(s): warpe
go wrong, go astray Headword location(s)
warp (v.) Old form(s): warpe
reduce, shrink, lessen Headword location(s)
warp (v.) Old form(s): warpe
deviate, turn away, diverge Headword location(s)
warp (v.) Old form(s): warpt
distort, pervert, deform Headword location(s)
warped (adj.)
twisted, distorted Headword location(s)
war-proof (n.) Old form(s): Warre-proofe
valour tested in war Headword location(s)
warrant (n.)
assurance, pledge, guarantee Headword location(s)
warrant (n.)
licence, sanction, authorization Headword location(s)
warrant (n.)
token, sign, evidence, proof Headword location(s)
warrant (v.)
assure, promise, guarantee, confirm see also Discourse markers Headword location(s)
warrant (v.)
assure, promise, guarantee, confirm see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
warrant (v.)
protect, preserve, keep safe see also Swearing Headword location(s)
warrant (v.)
authorize, sanction, license Headword location(s)
warrant (v.)
tell, assure, give good grounds to Headword location(s)
warrant (v.)
act as a pledge for, give an assurance about Headword location(s)
warrant (v.)
justify, defend, stand up for Headword location(s)
warrant, of
allowed, warranted, justifiable Headword location(s)
warrant, out of
illegal, unlawful, banned Headword location(s)
warranted (adj.)
justified, legitimate, rightful see also well-warranted (adj.) Headword location(s)
warrantise, warrantize (n.)
authorization, surety, guarantee Headword location(s)
warranty (n.) Old form(s): warrantie , warrantis
authorization, permission, sanction Headword location(s)
warren (n.)
hunting park, land used for breeding game Headword location(s)
warrener (n.)
keeper of a rabbit warren Headword location(s)
wash (n.)
kitchen swill, hogwash Headword location(s)
wash (v.)
make damp, moisten, wet Headword location(s)
wash a tile Old form(s): washd
labour in vain, work to no purpose Headword location(s)
Washes (n.)
the Wash; shallow inlet of the North Sea on E coast of England see also Britain [outside London] Headword location(s)
Washford (n.)
Wexford, city in Leinster, SE Ireland see also Britain [outside London] Headword location(s)
washing (adj.)
swashing, slashing Headword location(s)
waspish-headed (adj.) Old form(s): waspish headed
peevish, irascible, spiteful Headword location(s)
wassail (n.) Old form(s): Vassailes, Wassell, Wassels
drinking-party, carousal, revels Headword location(s)
waste (n.) Old form(s): wast
desolate time or place Headword location(s)
waste (n.)
wasting, devastation, ravages Headword location(s)
waste (n.)
[legal] damage to property by a tenant Headword location(s)
waste (n.)
lavish spending, extra expenditure Headword location(s)
waste (n.)
wasteland, wild domain Headword location(s)
waste (v.) Old form(s): wast
pass, spend, while away Headword location(s)
waste (v.)
consume, use up Headword location(s)
waste (v.)
lay waste, ravage, devastate Headword location(s)
waste (v.)
squander, wear away, lay waste to Headword location(s)
waste (v.) Old form(s): wast
efface, wipe out, destroy Headword location(s)
wasted (adj.)
spent, consumed, burnt-out Headword location(s)
wasted (adj.)
laid waste, ravaged, ruined Headword location(s)
wasteful (adj.)
causing the body to waste away, wasting Headword location(s)
wasteful (adj.) Old form(s): wastefull , wastfull
destructive, devastating, ruinous Headword location(s)
wasting (adj.)
destructive, devastating, ravaging Headword location(s)
watch (n.)
sleepless state, wakefulness Headword location(s)
watch (n.)
watchmen, officers, street patrol Headword location(s)
watch (n.)
time interval, period of time Headword location(s)
watch (n.)
dial, clock face Headword location(s)
watch (n.)
signal, watchword, call Headword location(s)
watch (n.)
watcher, watchman, observer Headword location(s)
watch (v.)
be on the watch for, look out for Headword location(s)
watch (v.) Old form(s): Watcht
keep the watch, keep guard, be on the lookout Headword location(s)
watch (v.) Old form(s): watch'd, watcht
stay awake, keep vigil Headword location(s)
watch (v.)
keep watch on, look out over Headword location(s)
watch (v.) Old form(s): watcht
keep in view, catch in the act Headword location(s)
watch (v.)
[falconry, in taming a hawk] prevent from sleeping, keep awake Headword location(s)
watch-case (n.)
[unclear meaning] receptacle containing a watch; place for keeping watch Headword location(s)
watcher (n.)
one who stays wide-awake Headword location(s)
watchful (adj.) Old form(s): watchfull
wakeful, unsleeping, vigilant Headword location(s)
watching (n.)
wakefulness, sleeplessness, vigilance Headword location(s)
water (n.)
water-newt Headword location(s)
water (n.)
tears Headword location(s)
water (n.)
lustre, sheen, quality Headword location(s)
water (n.)
urine Headword location(s)
water (n.)
[in expressions] see also cast the water Headword location(s)
water-gall (n.) Old form(s): watergalls
rainbow-like halo Headword location(s)
waterish (adj.) Old form(s): watrish
abounding in water; also: wishy-washy, watered down Headword location(s)
water-rug (n.)
rough-haired water-dog Headword location(s)
water-standing (adj.)
flooded with tears Headword location(s)
waterwork (n.) Old form(s): Waterworke
watercolour, distemper [imitating tapestry] Headword location(s)
watery (adj.) Old form(s): watry
made of water-drops, aqueous Headword location(s)
watery (adj.) Old form(s): watry
moist, clammy, salivating Headword location(s)
wave (v.) Old form(s): waued
waver, vacillate, alternate Headword location(s)
wave (v.) Old form(s): wauing
move up and down, incline Headword location(s)
wavering (adj.) Old form(s): wauering
inconstant, fickle, capricious Headword location(s)
wawl (v.) Old form(s): wawle
yell, howl, bawl Headword location(s)
wax (n.)
[in expressions] see also man of wax Headword location(s)
wax (v.)
grow, increase, enlarge Headword location(s)
wax (v.) Old form(s): waxe , waxt
grow, become, turn Headword location(s)
waxen (adj.)
written on wax, perishable, quickly worn away Headword location(s)
waxen (v.)
increase, grow Headword location(s)
waxing (adj.)
incoming, growing, increasing Headword location(s)
way (n.) Old form(s): waies
best path, course of action Headword location(s)
way (n.)
entrance, access, path Headword location(s)
way (n.)
journey, expedition, outing Headword location(s)
way (n.)
course, passage Headword location(s)
way (n.) Old form(s): waies
path, track, trail Headword location(s)
way (n.) Old form(s): wayes
direction, route, path Headword location(s)
way (n.)
opportunity, scope Headword location(s)
way (n.)
calling, vocation, profession Headword location(s)
way (n.)
[in expressions] see also give way Headword location(s)
way (n.)
[in expressions] see also great way Headword location(s)
way (n.)
[in expressions] see also keep your way Headword location(s)
way of, in (prep.)
of the nature of, as a point of Headword location(s)
way, by the
on the way, on the journey Headword location(s)
way, on one's
pregnant, with child Headword location(s)
ways, come thy / your Old form(s): waies, wayes
come along see also Discourse markers Headword location(s)
ways, come thy / your Old form(s): waies, wayes
come along see also Farewells Headword location(s)
ways, go thy / your Old form(s): goe, wayes, waies
get along, be off see also Discourse markers Headword location(s)
ways, go thy / your Old form(s): goe, wayes, waies
get along, be off see also Farewells Headword location(s)
ways, go thy / your Old form(s): goe, waies, Goe, wayes
carry on, go ahead Headword location(s)
ways, go thy / your Old form(s): goe, wayes , waies
well done Headword location(s)
wayward (adj.) Old form(s): way-ward
perverse, unreasonable, awkward Headword location(s)
wayward (adj.)
hostile, contrary, antagonistic Headword location(s)
wayward (adj.)
changeable, capricious, erratic Headword location(s)
waywarder (n.)
obstinate, wilful, self-willed [person] Headword location(s)
waywardness (n.) Old form(s): way-wardnesse
perversity, wrong-headedness, capriciousness Headword location(s)
weak (adj.) Old form(s): weake
contemptible, despicable, dishonourable Headword location(s)
weak (adj.) Old form(s): weake
weakening, debilitating, enfeebling Headword location(s)
weak (adj.) Old form(s): weake
of little worth, wanting, deficient Headword location(s)
weak-built (adj.) Old form(s): weake-built
on poor foundation, ungrounded Headword location(s)
weaken (v.)
lower, reduce, lessen Headword location(s)
weal (n.) Old form(s): weale
welfare, well-being, prosperity Headword location(s)
weal (n.) Old form(s): weale
state, community, commonwealth Headword location(s)
wealsman (n.) Old form(s): Weales men
public servant, one devoted to the well-being of the state Headword location(s)
wealth (n.)
welfare, well-being, prosperity Headword location(s)
wean (v.) Old form(s): weane
bring up, train Headword location(s)
wean (v.) Old form(s): weane
separate, detach, alienate Headword location(s)
wear (n.) Old form(s): weare
fashion, vogue, trend Headword location(s)
wear (v.) Old form(s): weare
wear out, weary, tire Headword location(s)
wear (v.) Old form(s): weares
pass, waste, run out Headword location(s)
wear (v.) Old form(s): weare
possess, enjoy, have Headword location(s)
wear (v.) Old form(s): weare, weares
fashion, adapt, conform Headword location(s)
wear (v.)
be the fashion, be trendy Headword location(s)
wear (v.) Old form(s): weare
have, experience Headword location(s)
wear out (v.) Old form(s): weare
outlive, survive, outlast Headword location(s)
wear out (v.)
pass, spend Headword location(s)
wearing (n.)
clothing, dress, garments Headword location(s)
wearing (n.)
possession, having, enjoyment Headword location(s)
wearing, worst
most unfashionable, least stylish Headword location(s)
weary (adj.)
wearisome, tedious, long-drawn-out Headword location(s)
weasand, wezand (n.)
throat, windpipe, gullet Headword location(s)
weather (n.)
tempest, storm Headword location(s)
weather, in the
in an exposed situation, open to the elements Headword location(s)
weather, keep the Old form(s): keepes
keep to the windward side Headword location(s)
weather, make fair Old form(s): faire wether
appear friendly, be conciliatory Headword location(s)
weather-fend (v.)
defend from the weather, shelter Headword location(s)
weaved-up (adj.) Old form(s): weau'd-vp
woven together, intertwined Headword location(s)
web and the pin, pin and web
disease of the eye, cataract Headword location(s)
wedding-dower (n.)
dowry, property or wealth given with a wife see also dower (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
wedge (n.)
ingot Headword location(s)
wedge (v.)
cleave, split [as with a wedge] Headword location(s)
wee away (v.)
F spelling of 'oui' see also oui away (v.) Headword location(s)
weed (n.) Old form(s): Weedes
(plural) garments, dress, clothes Headword location(s)
weed (n.) Old form(s): weede
garment, piece of clothing Headword location(s)
weed (v.) Old form(s): weede
[debated usage] weed out, root out Headword location(s)
weedy (adj.)
made of weeds Headword location(s)
week, in by the Old form(s): weeke
hopelessly caught, trapped Headword location(s)
ween (v.) Old form(s): Weene
think, intend, expect, be minded Headword location(s)
weepingly (adv.) Old form(s): wepingly
tearfully, with many tears Headword location(s)
weeping-ripe (adj.) Old form(s): weeping ripe
ready to weep, on the point of tears Headword location(s)
weet (v.) Old form(s): weete
know Headword location(s)
weigh (v.) Old form(s): waigh , Waighes , weigh'd
consider, take into account Headword location(s)
weigh (v.) Old form(s): waygh
weigh anchor, heave up the anchor Headword location(s)
weigh (v.) Old form(s): waigh , weigh'd
balance [as in scales], poise, match Headword location(s)
weigh (v.) Old form(s): waigh
judge, rate, assess the value of Headword location(s)
weigh out (v.)
make amends for, compensate for Headword location(s)
weighing (adj.)
[in compounds] see also well-weighing (adj.) Headword location(s)
weight (n.) Old form(s): waight
burden of sorrow, sadness, affliction Headword location(s)
weighty (adj.) Old form(s): waightier
rigorous, severe, harsh Headword location(s)
weird (adj.) Old form(s): weyard, weyward
controlling human fate or destiny, a weird sister was one of the Fates; only with reference to the witches in Macbeth Headword location(s)
welfare (n.) Old form(s): wel-fare
being well, remaining healthy Headword location(s)
welked (adj.) Old form(s): wealk'd
twisted, ridged, convoluted Headword location(s)
welkin (adj.)
heavenly blue Headword location(s)
welkin (n.) Old form(s): welken
sky, firmament, heavens Headword location(s)
welkin, out of one's
out of one's element, none of one's business Headword location(s)
well (adj.)
fine, all right, satisfactory Headword location(s)
well (adv.)
in a state of happiness, in bliss Headword location(s)
well (adv.)
easily, clearly, readily Headword location(s)
well (adv.)
clearly, plainly, frankly Headword location(s)
well advised, well-advised (adv.)
in one's right mind, sane, rational Headword location(s)
well met
expression pf pleasure at meeting see also Greetings Headword location(s)
well said
well done see also Exclamations Headword location(s)
well said
well done see also said, well Headword location(s)
well to live (adj.) Old form(s): liue
well-to-do, well-off, prosperous Headword location(s)
well-a-day (int.)
exclamation of grief, sorrow, upset, etc see also Regrets Headword location(s)
well-a-day (n.) Old form(s): welladay
lamentation, grief, sorrowing see also Regrets Headword location(s)
well-advised (adj.) Old form(s): well aduis'd, well-aduised
prudent, sensible, thoughtful see also advised (adj.) 3 Headword location(s)
well-a-near (int.) Old form(s): wel-a-neare
alas, alack see also Regrets Headword location(s)
well-apparelled (adj.) Old form(s): well apparrel'd
well-dressed, nicely adorned see also apparel (n.) Headword location(s)
well-appointed (adj.) Old form(s): well appointed
well-equipped, properly fitted out see also appoint (v.) 1 Headword location(s)
well-beseeming (adj.) Old form(s): well beseeming
fine-looking, well-ordered see also ill-beseeming (adj.) Headword location(s)
well-breathed (adj.) Old form(s): wel breathd
strong in wind, well-exercised see also breathed (adj.) Headword location(s)
well-compact (adj.) Old form(s): well compact
well-formed, nicely put together see also compact (adj.) 2 Headword location(s)
well-dealing (adj.)
fair-dealing, conducting business well Headword location(s)
well-disposed (adj.)
see also disposed (adj.) 1, 2 Headword location(s)
well-divided (adj.) Old form(s): well diuided
well-balanced, evenly shared Headword location(s)
well-entered (adj.) Old form(s): well entred
well-trained, duly initiated Headword location(s)
well-favoured (adj.) Old form(s): wel fauor'd, wel-fauoured , well fauour'd., well fauoured, well-fauourd, well-fauour'd
good-looking, attractive in appearance see also hard-favoured (adj.) Headword location(s)
well-forwarning (adj.) Old form(s): well fore-warning
giving an accurate early warning, truth-predicting Headword location(s)
well-found (adj.)
commendable, meritorious, laudable Headword location(s)
well-found (adj.) Old form(s): well found
of proven merit, of established reputation, commendable Headword location(s)
well-graced (adj.) Old form(s): well grac'd
full of pleasing qualities, well-favoured see also graced (adj.) 1 Headword location(s)
well-hallowed (adj.) Old form(s): wel-hallow'd
well-blessed, well-consecrated Headword location(s)
well-knit (adj.)
strongly built, well-constructed Headword location(s)
well-known (adj.) Old form(s): well knowne
certain, clear, apparent Headword location(s)
well-liking (adj.) Old form(s): Wel-liking
thriving, healthy, in good condition see also liking (n.) 3 Headword location(s)
well-lost (adj.) Old form(s): well lost
lost in a good cause Headword location(s)
well-minded (adj.)
right-minded, well-disposed, loyal Headword location(s)
well-respected (adj.)
well-considered, duly regarded see also respect (v.) 1 Headword location(s)
well-seeming (adj.) Old form(s): welseeing
attractively looking, presenting a plausible appearance see also seeming (adj.) Headword location(s)
well-sinewed (adj.) Old form(s): well sinew'd
well-strengthened, strongly prepared Headword location(s)
well-spoken (adj.) Old form(s): well spoken
refined, courteous, eloquent Headword location(s)
well-warranted (adj.)
highly approved, most justified see also warranted (adj.) Headword location(s)
well-weighing (adj.) Old form(s): well-waighing
heavy, weighty, significant Headword location(s)
well-willer (n.) Old form(s): well willer
well-wisher, one who offers good will Headword location(s)
well-wished (adj.) Old form(s): wel-wisht
accompanied by good wishes, much loved Headword location(s)
wen (n.)
swelling, tumour, lump Headword location(s)
wench (n.)
girl, lass see also Address forms Headword location(s)
wenching (adj.)
someone who hangs around with women Headword location(s)
wenchless (adj.) Old form(s): wenchlesse
lacking in women Headword location(s)
wench-like (adj.)
girlish, womanish, effeminate Headword location(s)
wend (v.)
direct, betake [oneself] Headword location(s)
weraday (int.) Old form(s): weladay
well-a-day, alas see also Regrets Headword location(s)
wert (v.)
2nd person singular, past tense of 'be' see also Verb forms Headword location(s)
westward (adv.)
over in the west, in the west country Headword location(s)
wet (v.)
weep for, lament with tears Headword location(s)
wet (v.)
[unclear meaning] bequeath, bestow; suffuse, steep Headword location(s)
wether (n.) Old form(s): weather , weathers
sheep, ram Headword location(s)
wharf (n.) Old form(s): Wharfe, Wharfes
river bank Headword location(s)
what (pron.)
[in expressions] see also what and what Headword location(s)
what (pron.)
[in expressions] see also look what Headword location(s)
what though Old form(s): tho
what of it, never mind see also Discourse markers Headword location(s)
what though Old form(s): tho
what of it, never mind see also What and what Headword location(s)
whatsoe'er, whatsoever (adj./conj.)
whatever, whoever see also What and what Headword location(s)
whatsomever, whatsome'er (adj./conj.)
whatever, whoever see also What and what Headword location(s)
wheak (int.)
sound of a pig being killed see also Sounds Headword location(s)
wheel (n.) Old form(s): wheele
[unclear meaning] song refrain; or: spinning-wheel Headword location(s)
wheel (v.) Old form(s): wheele
turn to face in a new direction, circle round Headword location(s)
wheeling (adj.)
roving, wandering, drifting Headword location(s)
wheels, on Old form(s): wheeles
running smoothly, providing an easy life Headword location(s)
whe'er (conj.) Old form(s): where
[whether] if Headword location(s)
Wheeson (adj.) Old form(s): Whitson
Whitsun Headword location(s)
Wheesun (n.)
dialect form of Whitsun see also Days and dates Headword location(s)
Wheesun (n.)
dialect form of Whitsun see also Whitsun (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
whelk (n.) Old form(s): whelkes
pimple, pustule Headword location(s)
whelm (v.) Old form(s): whelme
overwhelm, drown, sink Headword location(s)
whelp (n.)
cub, young Headword location(s)
whelp (n.) Old form(s): whelpe
[term of abuse] pup, son of a bitch Headword location(s)
when (conj.)
at the time when see also whenas (conj.) Headword location(s)
when (int.)
exclamation of impatience or derision see also Exclamations Headword location(s)
when that (conj.)
for the time when Headword location(s)
whenas, when as (conj.)
whereas Headword location(s)
whenas, when as (conj.)
when, at the time when Headword location(s)
whence (adv.)
from which / what place, from where see also hence, thence, and whence Headword location(s)
whencesoever (adv.) Old form(s): Whence soeuer
from somewhere or other, from whatever place see also Hence, thence, and whence Headword location(s)
whensoever (adv.)
whenever Headword location(s)
where- (adv.)
[in compounds] see also here, there, and where Headword location(s)
where (conj.)
whereas Headword location(s)
where (conj.)
whether Headword location(s)
whereabout (adv.)
whereabouts; on what business Headword location(s)
whereagainst (adv.)
against which place see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
whereat (adv.)
at which see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
whereby (adv.)
by which see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
wherefore (adv.)
why see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
wherein (adv.)
in which; in what situation see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
whereinto (adv.)
in which see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
whereof (adv.)
of which; through whicb see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
whereon (adv.)
on what; on which; whereupon see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
whereout (adv.)
out of which, from which see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
wheresoever
wherever see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
wheresomever (adv.)
wherever see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
where-through (adv.)
through which Headword location(s)
wherethrough, where-through (adv.)
through which see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
whereto (adv.)
to which; formerly; in which direction see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
wheretofore (adv.)
while until now see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
whereuntil (adv.)
to which, to what see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
whereunto (adv.)
to which see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
whereupon (adv.)
for which reason; why; upon which see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
wherewith (adv.)
with which, with what see also Here, there, and where Headword location(s)
wherewithal (adv.)
whereby, with which see also Withal and withal Headword location(s)
whet on (v.)
encourage, incite, egg on Headword location(s)
whether (pron.)
which of the two Headword location(s)
whetstone (n.)
shaped stone used for sharpening [whetting] tools Headword location(s)
whey-face (n.) Old form(s): Whay-face
milk-face, pasty-face Headword location(s)
whiffler (n.)
armed processional attendant Headword location(s)
while (n.)
space of time, interval Headword location(s)
while (n.)
times, age Headword location(s)
while, the
meanwhile, in the meantime Headword location(s)
while-ere (adv.) Old form(s): whileare
a while before, a short time ago Headword location(s)
whiles (conj.)
while Headword location(s)
whiles (n.)
meantime, meanwhile Headword location(s)
whilst, the Old form(s): whil'st
in the meantime, meanwhile Headword location(s)
whinyard (n.)
short sword see also Weapons Headword location(s)
whip (v.) Old form(s): whipt
dash, hurry, hasten Headword location(s)
whip me
[exclamation] treat me as a criminal see also Swearing Headword location(s)
whip the gosling
confound the little goose see also Swearing Headword location(s)
whipping-cheer (n.) Old form(s): Whipping cheere
whipping fare, good flogging Headword location(s)
whipster (n.)
wretch, degenerate, good-for-nothing Headword location(s)
whipstock (n.) Old form(s): whipstocke , Whip-stocke
whip-handle Headword location(s)
whir (v.)
whirl, rush along, carry Headword location(s)
whirligig (n.) Old form(s): whirlegigge
spinning-top, roundabout Headword location(s)
whisper (v.)
speak secretly with, talk confidentially to Headword location(s)
whist (adj.)
silent, quiet, still Headword location(s)
whistle (v.)
whisper, speak in private Headword location(s)
whistle, go Old form(s): goe
carry on to no purpose, waste [one's] time Headword location(s)
whistling (n.)
calling, watching out for Headword location(s)
whit, no
not at all, not in the least Headword location(s)
white (adj.)
ready for harvesting, ripening Headword location(s)
white (adj.)
fresh, unsmoked Headword location(s)
white (adv.)
[unclear meaning] clearly, lacking colour Headword location(s)
white (n.)
[archery] white ring at the centre of a target Headword location(s)
white and black, under
in black-and-white, written down Headword location(s)
whitebeard (n.)
old man, patriarch, old-timer Headword location(s)
white-haired (adj.) Old form(s): white hair'd
fair-haired Headword location(s)
white-livered (adj.) Old form(s): White-liuer'd
lily-livered, cowardly, feeble-spirited Headword location(s)
whitely (adj.) Old form(s): whitly
pale-complexioned, light-skinned Headword location(s)
whither (adv.)
to which place; to what result see also hither, thither, and whither Headword location(s)
whiting-time (n.) Old form(s): whiting time
whitening time, time for clothes-bleaching Headword location(s)
whitly (adj.)
F spelling of 'whitely' see also whitely (adj.) Headword location(s)
whitster (n.)
linen-bleacher, whitener of clothing Headword location(s)
Whitsun (n.)
in Christian tradition, the feast of Pentecost see also Days and dates Headword location(s)
whittle (n.)
clasp-knife, carving knife Headword location(s)
who (pron.)
[in expressions] see also who and who Headword location(s)
whoe'er (conj.)
whoever see also Who and who Headword location(s)
whole (adj.)
unbroken, sound, intact Headword location(s)
whole (adj.)
well, good Headword location(s)
whole (adj.)
healthy, well, in sound condition Headword location(s)
wholesome (adj.) Old form(s): wholsome, wholsomst
good for the health, health-giving, salubrious Headword location(s)
wholesome (adj.) Old form(s): wholsome
reasonable, sensible, rational Headword location(s)
wholesome (adj.) Old form(s): wholsome
good, nutritious, fit to eat Headword location(s)
wholesome (adj.) Old form(s): wholsome
profitable, valuable, promoting well-being Headword location(s)
wholesome (adj.) Old form(s): wholsom , wholsome
sound, firm, in good condition Headword location(s)
wholesome (adj.) Old form(s): wholsome
good, beneficial, advantageous Headword location(s)
wholesome-profitable (adj.) Old form(s): wholsome profitable
beneficial to well-being Headword location(s)
whoo-bub (n.)
hubbub, confused yelling Headword location(s)
whoop, hoop (v.) Old form(s): hoope
shout with astonishment, make an outcry Headword location(s)
whoop, hoop (v.) Old form(s): Hoop'd
howl, hoot, jeer Headword location(s)
whooping (n.) Old form(s): hooping
exclaiming, excited shouting Headword location(s)
whore (n.)
whoring, fornication Headword location(s)
Whore of Babylon
in the Bible, a prostitute figure, taken as a symbol of degenerate Rome, and thus of Roman Catholicism see also Religious personalities and beings Headword location(s)
whoremaster (adj.) Old form(s): Whore-master
lecherous, fornicating, licentious Headword location(s)
whoremaster (n.) Old form(s): Whore-master
fornicator, lecher, one who deals with whores Headword location(s)
whoremasterly (adj.) Old form(s): whore-maisterly
lecherous, having the character of a whoremaster Headword location(s)
whoremonger (n.) Old form(s): Whore-monger
fornicator, lecher, one who deals with whores Headword location(s)
whoreson (adj.) Old form(s): horson , whorson
[abusive intensifier, serious or jocular] bastard, wretched, vile see also Swearing Headword location(s)
whoreson (n.) Old form(s): horson, whorsons
[son of a whore; serious or jocular term of abuse] fellow, bastard Headword location(s)
whoso (pron.)
whoever, anyone who see also Who and who Headword location(s)
whosoe'er, whosoever (conj./pron.)
whoever, anyone who see also Who and who Headword location(s)
wide (adj.)
distant, removed, moving astray [from] Headword location(s)
wide (adj.)
full, extensive, far-reaching Headword location(s)
wide (adj.)
confused, disoriented Headword location(s)
wide (adj.)
wide of the mark, mistaken Headword location(s)
wide (adv.)
astray, into a lax state Headword location(s)
wide (adv.)
in error, mistakenly Headword location(s)
wide-chopped (adj.) Old form(s): wide-chopt
wide-jawed, big-mouthed see also chaps (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
wide-enlarged (adj.) Old form(s): wide enlarg'd
widespread; or: greatly endowed Headword location(s)
wide-skirted (adj.)
with wide borders, widely spread out Headword location(s)
wide-stretched (adj.)
widely extended, extensive, sweeping Headword location(s)
widow-dolour (adj.) Old form(s): widdow-dolour
widow's sorrow Headword location(s)
widowhood (n.) Old form(s): widdow-hood
estate settled upon a widow, widow's rights Headword location(s)
wield (v.) Old form(s): weild
express, utter, speak Headword location(s)
wife (n.) Old form(s): Wiues
woman Headword location(s)
wight (n.) Old form(s): wightes
[archaism] person, human being see also Archaisms Headword location(s)
wild (adj.) Old form(s): wilde
agitated, disturbed, upset Headword location(s)
wild (adj.) Old form(s): wilde
erratic, irregular, unruly Headword location(s)
wild (adj.) Old form(s): wilde
wanton, flighty, frivolous Headword location(s)
wild (adj.) Old form(s): wilde
rash, reckless, careless Headword location(s)
wild (adj.) Old form(s): wilde
savage, fierce, cruel Headword location(s)
wild (adj.) Old form(s): wilde
furious, mad, infuriated Headword location(s)
wild (adj.) Old form(s): wilde
delirious, ecstatic, passionately elated Headword location(s)
wild (adj.) Old form(s): wilde
daring, irregular, audacious Headword location(s)
wild (n.) Old form(s): wilde , wildes
wilderness, waste land Headword location(s)
wilderness (n.) Old form(s): wildernesse
wildness of character, licentiousness Headword location(s)
wildfire (n.) Old form(s): wild fire , Wild-fire
flaming gunpowder; also: will o' the wisp; type of eruptive disease Headword location(s)
wildly (adv.) Old form(s): wildely
naturally, without cultivation Headword location(s)
wildness (n.) Old form(s): wildenesse, wildnesse
madness, distraction, frenzy Headword location(s)
wile (n.)
trick, delusion, illusion Headword location(s)
wilful (adv.) Old form(s): wilfull
wilfully, deliberately Headword location(s)
wilful-blame (adj.) Old form(s): wilfull blame
wilfully blameworthy, at fault for being too obstinate see also blame (adj.) Headword location(s)
wilful-negligent (adj.) Old form(s): wilfull-negligent
deliberately negligent, at fault for being too negligent see also negligent (adj.) Headword location(s)
wilful-opposite (adj.) Old form(s): wilfull opposite
stubbornly hostile, at fault for being too antagonistic see also opposite (adj.) Headword location(s)
will (n.)
lust, sexual desire, passion Headword location(s)
will (n.)
intent, purpose, design Headword location(s)
will (n.) Old form(s): wil , wils
desire, wish, liking, inclination Headword location(s)
will (n.)
wilfulness, self-will, determination Headword location(s)
will (n.)
emotion, distractedness, agitation Headword location(s)
will (v.), past form would Old form(s): wil
desire, wish, want Headword location(s)
will (v.), past form would Old form(s): wil'd , will'd
command, order, direct Headword location(s)
will (v.), past form would
require, demand, need Headword location(s)
will (v.), past form would
decree, determine, decide [to] Headword location(s)
willed (adj.)
[debated reading] self-willed, deliberate, premeditated see also wild (adj.) Headword location(s)
willing (adj.)
dynamic, energetic Headword location(s)
willing (adj.)
voluntary, taken up willingly Headword location(s)
willow (adj.)
made of leaves from the willow tree [a symbol of the grief felt by a deserted or unrequited lover] see also Plants Headword location(s)
willow (int.)
[in song] expression of sadness and unrequited love see also Singing Headword location(s)
wilt (v.)
2nd person singular of 'will' see also Verb forms Headword location(s)
wimpled (adj.)
blindfolded Headword location(s)
win (v.)
deserve, earn, merit Headword location(s)
win (v.)
win over, prevail upon Headword location(s)
win (v.) Old form(s): winne , winnes , wonne
gain advantage [over], get the better [of] Headword location(s)
win upon (v.) Old form(s): vpon
prevail over, overcome Headword location(s)
winch (v.)
wince, flinch, recoil Headword location(s)
Winchester (n.)
city in Hampshire see also Britain [outside London] Headword location(s)
Winchester goose
[contemptuous] groin swelling caused by venereal disease [one Bishop of Winchester licensed brothels in London] see also Winchester (n.) 1 Headword location(s)
wind (n.)
[in expressions] see also blow wind in the breech Headword location(s)
wind (n.) Old form(s): winde
breath Headword location(s)
wind (n.) Old form(s): winde
sighing, lamenting breath Headword location(s)
wind (v.) Old form(s): Winde
sound, blow Headword location(s)
wind (v.) Old form(s): winde
go, wend, take oneself Headword location(s)
wind (v.) Old form(s): winde
insinuate, pursue a devious course Headword location(s)
wind (v.) Old form(s): winde
[horsemanship] make wheel about Headword location(s)
wind (v.) Old form(s): winde
scent, get wind of Headword location(s)
wind of, have the Old form(s): winde
[hunting] stay downwind of; stay in a safe position in relation to Headword location(s)
wind up (v.) Old form(s): winde vp
put in tune, put in order, harmonize Headword location(s)
wind up (v.) Old form(s): vp
prepare for action, set in readiness Headword location(s)
wind up (v.) Old form(s): vp
occupy, fill up, take up Headword location(s)
wind, allow the Old form(s): alow the winde
go downwind Headword location(s)
wind, break one's Old form(s): breake winde
gasp for breath, lose one's breath Headword location(s)
wind, have in the Old form(s): winde
scent, detect Headword location(s)
wind, keep the Old form(s): keepes, winde
stay downwind of a quarry [so as to maintain a scent] Headword location(s)
wind, recover the Old form(s): recouer winde
[in hunting] get to the windward side Headword location(s)
wind, stop in your Old form(s): winde
hold your breath, shut up Headword location(s)
wind-changing (adj.)
changing with the direction of the wind, fickle Headword location(s)
windgall (n.) Old form(s): Windegalls
soft tumour on a horse's leg Headword location(s)
winding-sheet (n.) Old form(s): winding sheet
burial cloth, shroud Headword location(s)
windlass (n.) Old form(s): windlesses
circuit made to intercept game while hunting; roundabout way Headword location(s)
window (n.) Old form(s): windowes
(plural) eyelids Headword location(s)
window (n.) Old form(s): windowes
opening, hole; wound Headword location(s)
window (n.) Old form(s): Windowes
shutter Headword location(s)
window (v.) Old form(s): window'd
put in a window, place on display Headword location(s)
windowed (adj.) Old form(s): window'd
full of holes Headword location(s)
windows' tops (n.) Old form(s): Windowes
topmost windows, upper windows Headword location(s)
windring (adj.)
winding, wandering Headword location(s)
wind-swift (adj.)
swift as the wind Headword location(s)
windy (adj.) Old form(s): windie
windward, situated towards the wind [so that scent will travel away from the follower] Headword location(s)
wing (n.)
flank, force at the side of the main body of troops Headword location(s)
wing (n.)
flight, manner of flying Headword location(s)
wing (v.)
put on wings; hoist sail Headword location(s)
wing (v.)
furnish with troops, have a wing protected [by] Headword location(s)
wing, hold a
[falconry] take a course, maintain a course Headword location(s)
winged (adj.)
impelled, incited, raised up [as if in flight] Headword location(s)
wing-led (adj.)
[unclear meaning] led on in organized formation Headword location(s)
wink (n.) Old form(s): winke
blink Headword location(s)
wink (n.) Old form(s): winke
least bit, smallest amount Headword location(s)
wink (n.) Old form(s): Winke
closing of the eyes, shutting, sleep Headword location(s)
wink (v.) Old form(s): wincke, winke
[of the eyes] close, shut Headword location(s)
wink (v.) Old form(s): winck , wink'd , winke
shut one's eyes Headword location(s)
wink (v.) Old form(s): winke
fail to look, connive Headword location(s)
wink (v.) Old form(s): winke
blink Headword location(s)
wink (v.) Old form(s): winke , wink'st
sleep, doze, nod off Headword location(s)
wink (v.)
shrink away, wince, flinch Headword location(s)
wink at (v.) Old form(s): wink'd
ignore, disregard, overlook Headword location(s)
wink on (v.) Old form(s): winke
give someone a significant glance, invite with a look Headword location(s)
winking (adj.)
with closed petals Headword location(s)
winking (adj.)
with closed eyes Headword location(s)
winking (adj.)
closed, shut Headword location(s)
winking (n.)
shutting the eyes Headword location(s)
winter (adj.)
aged, venerable Headword location(s)
wintered (adj.) Old form(s): Wintred
worn in winter Headword location(s)
winter-ground (v.)
[of plants] cover so as to protect from winter harshness Headword location(s)
winterly (adj.)
harsh, cheerless, unpleasant Headword location(s)
wipe (n.)
mark, brand, scar Headword location(s)
wisdom (n.) Old form(s): Wisedome
[political] caution, prudence, judgement Headword location(s)
wisdom (n.)
good sense, judgement Headword location(s)
wisdom (n.)
knowledge, learning, science Headword location(s)
wise (adj.)
discreet, sensible, prudent Headword location(s)
wise (adj.)
informed, well-aware, knowledgeable Headword location(s)
wise (n.)
manner, way, fashion Headword location(s)
wise woman, wisewoman (n.) Old form(s): Wise-woman
fortune-teller, witch, sorceress Headword location(s)
wish (n.)
(plural) good wishes Headword location(s)
wish (v.)
commend, recommend Headword location(s)
wish (v.) Old form(s): wisht
wish for, support Headword location(s)
wish (v.) Old form(s): wish'd
hope, desire Headword location(s)
wish (v.)
entreat, invite Headword location(s)
wished (adj.)
longed-for, desired Headword location(s)
wishful (adj.) Old form(s): wishfull
longing, yearning, wistful Headword location(s)
wishtly (adv.)
fixedly, intently, steadfastly Headword location(s)
wist (v.), past form of wit
knew for certain Headword location(s)
wistly (adv.) Old form(s): wistely , wistlie
intently, attentively, earnestly Headword location(s)
wit (n.) Old form(s): wiht, witte , wittes, Witts
intelligence, wisdom, good sense, mental ability see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
wit (n.) Old form(s): wiht, witte , wittes, Witts
intelligence, wisdom, good sense, mental ability see also want-wit (n.) Headword location(s)
wit (n.) Old form(s): wiht, witte , wittes, Witts
intelligence, wisdom, good sense, mental ability see also mother-wit (n.) Headword location(s)
wit (n.) Old form(s): witte
mental sharpness, acumen, quickness, ingenuity see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
wit (n.)
reasoning, thinking, deliberation Headword location(s)
wit (n.)
cunning plan, ingenious design Headword location(s)
wit (n.) Old form(s): witte
mind, brain, thoughts Headword location(s)
wit (n.) Old form(s): witte
lively person, sharp-minded individual Headword location(s)
wit (v.)
know, be aware, realize Headword location(s)
wit, to
[legal] that is to say Headword location(s)
witch (n.)
enchanter, magician, wizard Headword location(s)
witch (v.) Old form(s): witcht
bewitch, charm, enchant Headword location(s)
witching (adj.)
witchcraft-practising, spell-casting Headword location(s)
with (prep.)
against Headword location(s)
with (prep.)
by Headword location(s)
with (prep.)
by virtue of Headword location(s)
with (prep.)
like Headword location(s)
withal (adv.) Old form(s): withall
with this / it, by this / it see also withal and -withal Headword location(s)
withal (adv.) Old form(s): withall
nevertheless, notwithstanding see also withal and -withal Headword location(s)
withal (adv.) Old form(s): withall
in addition, moreover, as well see also withal and -withal Headword location(s)
withal (prep.)
with Headword location(s)
withdraw (v.)
turn aside, stand apart Headword location(s)
wither out (v.)
cause to dwindle, make less Headword location(s)
withers (n.)
[of a horse] ridge between the shoulder-blades Headword location(s)
withhold (v.) Old form(s): with-hold , with-holde
restrain, hold back, keep in check Headword location(s)
withhold (v.) Old form(s): with-holds
detain, keep in possession Headword location(s)
within (adv.)
behind the stage facade see also Stage directions Headword location(s)
within (prep.)
among Headword location(s)
Withold, Saint
pron: ['witohld] in Christian tradition, defender against harms see also Religious personalities and beings Headword location(s)
without (adv.)
externally, on the outside Headword location(s)
without (conj.)
unless Headword location(s)
without (prep.)
beyond Headword location(s)
without (prep.)
outside Headword location(s)
without-door (adj.) Old form(s): without-dore
outward, surface, public Headword location(s)
witless (adj.) Old form(s): witles, witlesse
stupid, foolish, crazy Headword location(s)
witness (n.) Old form(s): Witnesse
evidence, sign Headword location(s)
witness (v.) Old form(s): witnesse
bear witness to, attest, testify to Headword location(s)
witness (v.) Old form(s): witnesse
be a sign of, foreshadow, betoken Headword location(s)
witness, with a Old form(s): witnesse
without a doubt, and no mistake Headword location(s)
witnessed (adj.) Old form(s): witnest
visible, evident, attested Headword location(s)
wit-old (adj.)
cuckold see also cuckold (n.) Headword location(s)
wits, also five wits Old form(s): fiue , wittes
faculties of the mind (common wit, imagination, fantasy, estimation, memory) or body (the five senses) Headword location(s)
wit-snapper (n.) Old form(s): witte-snapper
wisecracker, smart aleck Headword location(s)
wittily (adv.)
ingeniously, cleverly, resourcefully Headword location(s)
wittingly (adv.)
deliberately, knowingly, intentionally Headword location(s)
wittol (n.) Old form(s): Wittoll
compliant cuckold, man who accepts his wife's infidelity Headword location(s)
wittolly (adj.)
cuckoldy; also: half-witted Headword location(s)
witty (adj.)
intelligent, ingenious, sensible Headword location(s)
witty (adj.) Old form(s): Wittie
clever, quick, intelligent Headword location(s)
witty (adj.) Old form(s): wittie
crafty, cunning, wily Headword location(s)
witty (adj.)
with all one's wits at the ready Headword location(s)
wiving (n.) Old form(s): Wiuing
marriage, marrying, taking a wife Headword location(s)
woe (adj.)
sorry, sorrowful, sad see also Regrets Headword location(s)
woe (n.)
pitiable creature, mournful sight Headword location(s)
woeful (adj.) Old form(s): wofull
full of woe, sorrowful, mournful Headword location(s)
wold (n.)
rolling hills, upland Headword location(s)
wolvish (adj.) Old form(s): Woluish
wolfish Headword location(s)
wolvish-ravening (adj.) Old form(s): Woluish-rauening
devouring like a wolf Headword location(s)
woman (v.) Old form(s): woman'd
be in the company of a woman Headword location(s)
woman (v.)
make behave like a woman, weep Headword location(s)
womanhood (n.)
gentle womanliness, female modesty Headword location(s)
womanly (adj.)
womanish, feeble, fearful Headword location(s)
woman-post (n.) Old form(s): woman post
female carrier of dispatches Headword location(s)
woman-queller (n.)
woman-killer see also queller (n.) Headword location(s)
woman-tired (adj.)
henpecked, torn apart by a woman Headword location(s)
womb (n.) Old form(s): wombe
belly, paunch Headword location(s)
womby (adj.) Old form(s): Wombie
womb-like, hollow, cavernous Headword location(s)
wonder (n.)
miracle, prodigy, marvel Headword location(s)
wonder (n.)
grief, distress; or: bewilderment Headword location(s)
wonder (n.)
calamity, disaster, tragedy Headword location(s)
wonder (n.)
feeling of wonder, astonishment, marvelling Headword location(s)
wonder (n.)
object of fascination, target of astonishment Headword location(s)
wonder (n.)
surprise, astonishment, amazement Headword location(s)
wonder (n.)
special power, miraculous quality Headword location(s)
wonder (v.) Old form(s): wonder'd, wondred , wondring
marvel [at], be astonished [at] Headword location(s)
wonder (v.) Old form(s): wondring
stare in curiosity, look in fascination Headword location(s)
wonder (v.) Old form(s): wondring
wonder at, be curious about, guess at Headword location(s)
wondered (adj.) Old form(s): wondred
to be wondered at, performing such wonders Headword location(s)
wonderful (adj.) Old form(s): wonderfull
amazing, astonishing, extraordinary Headword location(s)
wonderful (adv.) Old form(s): wonderfull
wonderfully, remarkably, incredibly Headword location(s)
wondering (n.) Old form(s): Wondring
admiring, marvelling Headword location(s)
wonderingly (adv.) Old form(s): wondringly
with wonder, with amazement Headword location(s)
wonder-wounded (adj.)
awestruck, wonder-struck Headword location(s)
wondrous (adj.)
unbelievable, bizarre, strange Headword location(s)
wondrous (adv.)
wonderfully, extraordinarily, marvellously Headword location(s)
wont (n.)
custom, habit, practice Headword location(s)
wont (v.) Old form(s): woont
be accustomed, used [to], be in the habit of see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
wonted (adj.)
accustomed, usual, customary Headword location(s)
woo (v.) Old form(s): woe
win over, persuade, coax Headword location(s)
woo (v.)
entreat, plead with, implore Headword location(s)
wood (adj.)
mad, wild, furious Headword location(s)
woodbine (n.) Old form(s): wood-bine
honeysuckle see also Plants Headword location(s)
woodbine (n.)
bindweed, convolvulus see also Plants Headword location(s)
woodcock (n.) Old form(s): Woodcocke
type of game bird, thought to be easily tricked or snared; simpleton Headword location(s)
wooden (adj.) Old form(s): woodden
spiritless, dull, stupid Headword location(s)
woodman (n.) Old form(s): wood-man
hunter, huntsman Headword location(s)
woof (n.) Old form(s): woofe
cross-threads in a web; web Headword location(s)
wooingly (adv.)
enticingly, alluringly, temptingly Headword location(s)
woollen (adj.) Old form(s): Wollen
in coarse woollen clothes Headword location(s)
woollen, lie in the
sleep in rough blankets Headword location(s)
woolward (adj.)
wearing wool next to the skin Headword location(s)
woosel (n.)
Q spelling of 'ousel' see also ousel (n.) Headword location(s)
word (n.)
maxim, saying, adage, motto Headword location(s)
word (n.)
declaration, affirmation, proclamation Headword location(s)
word (n.)
(plural) speech, talk, utterance Headword location(s)
word (n.)
(plural) angry exchanges, altercations, recriminations Headword location(s)
word (n.)
remark, speech, utterance Headword location(s)
word (n.)
word of God Headword location(s)
word (n.)
(plural) empty rhetoric, vain talk Headword location(s)
word (v.)
represent in words, give a reputation Headword location(s)
word (v.)
speak, utter, say Headword location(s)
word, at a
in a word, once and for all, in short see also Discourse markers Headword location(s)
word, at a
without more ado, at once, forthwith Headword location(s)
word, with a
in brief, in short see also Discourse markers Headword location(s)
work (n.) Old form(s): Workes
(plural) fortifications, defences, ramparts Headword location(s)
work (n.) Old form(s): worke
embroidery, needlework Headword location(s)
work (n.) Old form(s): Worke
fort, barricade Headword location(s)
work (n.) Old form(s): worke, workes
deed, doing, action Headword location(s)
work (v.), past form wrought
act upon, continue with Headword location(s)
work (v.), past form wrought Old form(s): worke
happen, proceed, come about Headword location(s)
work (v.), past form wrought
act, behave, conduct oneself Headword location(s)
work (v.), past form wrought Old form(s): worke
persuade, urge Headword location(s)
work (v.), past form wrought
embroider, make, sew Headword location(s)
work (v.), past form wrought Old form(s): worke
bring about, arrange, effect Headword location(s)
work (v.), past form wrought Old form(s): worke
perform, do, carry out Headword location(s)
work (v.), past form wrought
practise, proceed, plot Headword location(s)
work (v.), past form wrought Old form(s): workes
affect, stir, act upon Headword location(s)
work (v.), past form wrought
work for, plan, try to arrange Headword location(s)
work (v.), past form wrought
work on, manipulate Headword location(s)
work (v.), past form wrought Old form(s): workes
run, toss about, rage Headword location(s)
work (v.), past form wrought Old form(s): worke
activate, galvanize, make work Headword location(s)
work out (v.)
preserve to the end, manage to maintain Headword location(s)
work to (v.)
bring about, arrange, effect Headword location(s)
work upon (v.) Old form(s): vp, worke vpon, worke vppon
practise on, work upon, act on Headword location(s)
working (adj.)
moving, full of emotion Headword location(s)
working (n.)
aim, endeavour, performance Headword location(s)
working (n.)
perception, mental operation, insight Headword location(s)
working (n.)
effort, exertion, labour Headword location(s)
working (n.)
operation, action, activity Headword location(s)
working, in the
being used, being worked upon [by the world] Headword location(s)
working-day (adj.) Old form(s): working day
workaday, everyday, humdrum Headword location(s)
working-house (n.)
workhouse, place of industry Headword location(s)
workman (n.) Old form(s): Workeman, Workemen, workemqn
craftsman, skilled worker Headword location(s)
workmanly (adv.) Old form(s): workmanlie
skilfully, with great artistry Headword location(s)
workyday (adj.) Old form(s): worky day
ordinary, commonplace, everyday Headword location(s)
world (n.)
large number, multitude Headword location(s)
world (n.)
times, life, state of affairs Headword location(s)
world (n.)
whole of mankind, human race, mass of society Headword location(s)
world away, thus runs the
that's the way of the world see also runs the world away, thus Headword location(s)
world, go to the Old form(s): goe
get married Headword location(s)
world, it is a
it's a marvel, it's a great thing Headword location(s)
worldling (n.)
citizen of the world, world's inhabitant Headword location(s)
worldly (adj.)
of this world, of the earth Headword location(s)
worm (n.) Old form(s): Worme , Wormes
serpent, snake Headword location(s)
worm (n.) Old form(s): worme
germ, microbe, bug Headword location(s)
wormwood (n.) Old form(s): Wormewood
bitter substance, bitterness see also Plants Headword location(s)
wormwood (n.) Old form(s): worm wood , Worme-wood
absinthe plant, known for its bitter taste Headword location(s)
worn (adj.) Old form(s): worne
worn out, exhausted, spent Headword location(s)
worn-out (adj.) Old form(s): worne-out
past, bygone, departed Headword location(s)
worried (adj.)
maltreated, harassed, savaged Headword location(s)
worse (adj.)
evil, harmful, wicked Headword location(s)
worship (n.)
sovereignty, supremacy Headword location(s)
worship (n.)
esteem, honour, renown Headword location(s)
worship (n.)
honour, distinction, repute Headword location(s)
worship (n.)
dignified ease, comfortable dignity Headword location(s)
worship (n.)
highly respectful term of address see also Address forms Headword location(s)
worship (n.)
highly respectful term of address see also Politeness Headword location(s)
worship (v.)
esteem, honour, renown Headword location(s)
worshipfully (adv.)
respectfully, with due honour, with proper regard Headword location(s)
worst (adj.)
wicked, evil, corrupt Headword location(s)
worst (n.)
weakest, least powerful Headword location(s)
worst (n.)
lowest, most despicable Headword location(s)
worsted (adj.) Old form(s): woosted
made of woollen fabric [inferior to silk] Headword location(s)
wort (n.)
[pun on Evans' pronunciation of ‘word’] cabbage Headword location(s)
wort (n.)
sweet unfermented beer Headword location(s)
worth (adj.)
worthy of, deserving, meriting Headword location(s)
worth (n.)
rank, standing, dignity Headword location(s)
worth (n.)
worthiness, value, excellence Headword location(s)
worth (n.)
pennyworth, fill Headword location(s)
worth (n.)
means, resources, wherewithal Headword location(s)
worth (v.)
become of, happen to, fall on Headword location(s)
worthily (adv.)
justly, deservedly, rightly Headword location(s)
worthless (adj.) Old form(s): worthles , worthlesse
unworthy, contemptible, ignoble Headword location(s)
worthy (adj.)
of worth, of value, deserving Headword location(s)
worthy (adj.)
estimable, admirable, heroic Headword location(s)
worthy (adj.) Old form(s): worthie
deserved, justified, warranted Headword location(s)
worthy (adj.) Old form(s): worthie
good, sensible, shrewd Headword location(s)
worthy (n.)
thing of worth, distinction, excellence Headword location(s)
worthy (v.)
make worthy, give honour to Headword location(s)
wot (v.) Old form(s): wote, wot'st
learn, know, be told see also Frequently Encountered Words (FEW) Headword location(s)
wot (v.)
[dialect] wilt see also Verb forms Headword location(s)
would (v.)
past form of 'will' see also will (v.) Headword location(s)
wound (n.)
incision, most painful part Headword location(s)
wounded (adj.)
damaged, tainted, tarnished Headword location(s)
woundless (adj.)
invulnerable, that cannot be hurt Headword location(s)
wrack (n.) Old form(s): Wracke
destruction, ruin Headword location(s)
wrack (n.) Old form(s): VVracke, wracke, wrackes
wreck, loss, shipwreck Headword location(s)
wrack (v.) Old form(s): wracke
destroy, ruin, dishonour Headword location(s)
wrack (v.) Old form(s): wrack'd
work with disastrous result Headword location(s)
wrack (v.) Old form(s): wrack'd , wrackt , wrack't
wreck, shipwreck, lose at sea Headword location(s)
wrack (v.) Old form(s): wrackt
overthrow, ruin, wipe out Headword location(s)
wrackful (adj.) Old form(s): wrackfull
destructive, devastating, damaging Headword location(s)
wrack-threatening (adj.) Old form(s): wracke-threatning
threatening dishonour Headword location(s)
wrangle (v.)
dispute, contest, argue over Headword location(s)
wrangler (n.)
quarreller, arguer; also: opponent, disputant Headword location(s)
wrangling (adj.)
quarrelsome, disputatious, argumentative Headword location(s)
wrap (v.) Old form(s): Wrapt
beset, envelop, surround [by] Headword location(s)
wrap in (v.) Old form(s): wrapt
entangle, catch, involve Headword location(s)
wrastle (v.)
variant form of ‘wrestle’ Headword location(s)
wreak (n.) Old form(s): wreake , wreakes
revenge, vengeance, retribution Headword location(s)
wreak (v.) Old form(s): wreake
inflict, deliver, bestow Headword location(s)
wreak (v.) Old form(s): wreak't
revenge, requite, pay back Headword location(s)
wreakful (adj.) Old form(s): wreakefull , wrekefull
vengeful, retributive; relentless Headword location(s)
wreathe (v.) Old form(s): wreath
fold, intertwine Headword location(s)
wrench (v.)
twisting, sudden movement Headword location(s)
wrest (n.)
[music] implement for tuning Headword location(s)
wrest (v.)
distort, twist, strain Headword location(s)
wrest (v.)
twist, pervert, warp Headword location(s)
wrest (v.)
wring out, derive, deduce Headword location(s)
wrested (adj.)
seized, snatched away, taken by force Headword location(s)
wretchedness (n.) Old form(s): wretchednesse
humble people, the poor, the lowly Headword location(s)
wring (v.)
rub, bruise, press Headword location(s)
wring (v.)
cause to weep, force tears from Headword location(s)
wring (v.)
writhe, struggle, twist [as if in pain] Headword location(s)
wring (v.)
wrack, rack, press down Headword location(s)
wringing (n.)
aches and pains Headword location(s)
wringing (n.)
squeezing, pressing, gripping Headword location(s)
wrinkle (n.) Old form(s): wrinckle , wrinckles
frown, disapproving look Headword location(s)
wrinkled (adj.)
frowning, furrowed Headword location(s)
writ (n.)
plays written according to traditional rules of drama; also: a district of the city subject to a sheriff's legal order [i.e. less suitable for theatres] Headword location(s)
writ (n.)
document, missive, letter Headword location(s)
writ (n.)
written authority, formal order, warrant Headword location(s)
writ (n.)
writing, text Headword location(s)
writ (n.)
[archaism] gospel, holy scripture see also Archaisms Headword location(s)
write (v.)
sign, designate, call Headword location(s)
write (v.)
claim, bear, exhibit Headword location(s)
write (v.) Old form(s): writ
call oneself, claim to be Headword location(s)
writhled (adj.)
wrinkled, shrivelled, withered Headword location(s)
written (adj.)
preserved, engraved, fixed Headword location(s)
wroath (n.)
F, Q spelling of 'wroth' see also wroth (n.) Headword location(s)
wrong (n.)
insult, offence, slight Headword location(s)
wrong (n.)
dishonour, discredit, harm Headword location(s)
wrong (n.)
wrong-doing, wrongful gain, unjust claim Headword location(s)
wrong (n.)
wrong course of action Headword location(s)
wrong (v.)
discredit, dishonour, injure, disgrace Headword location(s)
wrong (v.) Old form(s): wrong'd
put in the wrong, do injustice to, injure Headword location(s)
wrong-incensed (adj.) Old form(s): wrong incensed
inflamed with wrath, kindled with rage Headword location(s)
wroth (n.) Old form(s): wroath
misfortune, grief, ruin Headword location(s)
wrought (v.)
past form of 'work' see also work (v.) Headword location(s)
wry (v.)
err, lapse, go wrong Headword location(s)
wry-necked (n.) Old form(s): wry-neckt
having a crooked neck [of the player] Headword location(s)
x

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