Emily Dickinson Lexicon

equal, adj. [L. < æqu-us, equal, even, just.]

Same kind (of thing), magnitude, or dimensions; having the same value.

equal (-ly), adv. [see equal, adj.]

1. The same degree or amount; in the same relative proportion.
2. Impartially; with equal justice.

equation, n. [L. æquation-em, 'to make equal'.]

Statement of equality.

equator, n. [L. æquator, one who makes equal.]

Divider (of two parts).

equilibrium, n. [L. æquss, equal + lībra, balance.]

Condition of equal balance between opposing forces or powers; balancing of the mind between motives or reasons: a state of indifference or of doubt, when the mind is suspended in indecidion, between different motives, or the different forces of evidence (NW) [this second definition may be possible because of the word “evidence”. ED may be using this as a word play because in the poem it seems that she may be referring to the fact that rats are evasive and not often seen, but the evidence that they were there is left in plain view.]

equinox, n. [L. aequinoctium, equality between night and day.]

Time when the sun enters equinotical points, making the day and the night of equal length.

equip, v. [Fr.]

Supply [NW uses it only in terms of equipping an army for war; poss. word play with military terms.]

equipage, n. [Fr.]

Supplies [NW lists this as the furniture of a military man.]

equity, n. [OFr æquus, even, fair.]

Quality of being equal or fair; fairness, impartiality; evenhanded dealing.

equivalent, adj. [L. æquus equal & valēre to be powerful, to be worth.]

Equal in moral force, cogency or effect on the mind; equal in excellence or moral worth.