Emily Dickinson Lexicon
Definition for WHEN
WHEN, adv. [Goth. hwan; Sax. hwænne; G. wann; D. wanneer; L. quando; Gaelic, cuinne.]
- At the time. We were present when General La Fayette embarked at Havre for New York. – N.W.
- At what time, interrogatively. When shall these things be? Matth. xxiv.
- Which time. I was adopted heir by his consent; Since when, his oath is broke. – Shak.
- After the time that. When the act is passed, the public will be satisfied.
- At what time. Kings may / Take their advantage, when and how they list. – Daniel. When as, at the time when; what time. [Obs.] When as sacred light began to dawn. – Milton.
Return to page 39 of the letter “W”.