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Any one of a group of metametric hydrocarcons (C8H18) of the methane series. The most important is a colorless, volatile, inflammable liquid, found in petroleum, and a constituent of benzene or ligroin.

embling, octane; -- used specifically, to designate any one of a group of acids, the most important of which is called caprylic acid.

Importunately interposing services; intermeddling in affairs in which one has no concern; meddlesome. You are too officious In her behalf that scorns your services. Shak.

Importunity; earnestness. [Obs.] Jer. Taylor.

An elaborate discourse, delivered in public, treating an important subject in a formal and dignified manner; especially, a discourse having reference to some special occasion, as a funeral, an anniversary, a celebration, or the like; -- distinguished from an argument in court, a popular harangue, a sermon, a lecture, e…

An assemblage of genera having certain important characters in common; as, the Carnivora and Insectivora are orders of Mammalia.

An instrument or medium by which some important action is performed, or an important end accomplished; as, legislatures, courts, armies, taxgatherers, etc., are organs of government.

To give too important or difficult a part to. [Obs.] B. Jonson.

To overcome by importunity. Johnson.

To make of less importance, or throw into the background, by superior excellence; to dwarf; to obscure. Becon.

uropean oyster (Ostrea edulis), and the American oyster (Ostrea Virginiana), are the most important species.

ntment of; to tranquillize; as, to pacify a man when angry; to pacify pride, appetite, or importunity. "Pray ye, pacify yourself." Shak.

A duty formerly charged in the port of London on goods imported or exported by aliens, or by denizens who were the sons of aliens.

A man who imports, and controls the earnings of, Italian laborers, street musicians, etc.

The most ancient and important festival of Athens, celebrated in honor of Athena, the tutelary goddess of the city.

ess alkaline fluid secreted intermittently by the pancreatic gland. It is one of the most important of the digestive fluids, containing at least three distinct ferments, trypsin, steapsin and an amylolytic ferment, by which it acts upon all three classes of food stuffs. See Pancreas.

Something unimportant, incidental, or superfluous. [Obs.] Sir T. Browne.

ple of Athene, on the Acropolis at Athens. It was of the pure Doric order, and has had an important influence on art.

Separate or distinct by reason of superiority; distinguished; important; noteworthy; unusual; special; as, he brought no particular news; she was the particular belle of the party.

ction. It is obtained by lixiviating wood ashes, and evaporating the lye, and has been an important source of potassium compounds. It is used in making soap, glass, etc.