Emily Dickinson Lexicon

PRAC'TICE, v.i.

1. To perform certain acts frequently or customarily, either for instruction, profit or amusement; as, to practice with, the broad-sword; to practice with the rifle.
2. To form a habit of acting in any manner. They shall practice how to live secure. – Milton.
3. To transact or negotiate secretly. I have practic'd with him, / And found means to let the victor know / That Syphax and Sempronius are his friends. – Addison.
4. To try artifices. Others, by guilty artifice and arts / Of promis'd kindness practic'd on our hearts. – Granville.
5. To use evil arts or stratagems. If you there / Did practice on my state … – Shak.
6. To use medical methods or experiments. I am little inclined to practice on others, and as little that others should practice on me. – Temple.
7. To exercise any employment or profession. A physician has practiced many years with success.