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is formed in a square between two vertical lines. The theory of determinants forms a very important branch of modern mathematics.

ential duties (Polit. Econ.), duties which are not imposed equally upon the same products imported from different countries. -- Differential galvanometer (Elec.), a galvanometer having two coils or circuits, usually equal, through which currents passing in opposite directions are measured by the difference of their ef…

Extent; reach; scope; importance; as, a project of large dimensions.

To talk with vehemence, importunity, or reiteration; to bluster. [Low]

or for the first time ascertained or recognized; as, the properties of the magnet were an important discovery.

The act of sending a message or messenger in haste or on important business.

ion, etc.; alienation, or parting; as, a disposal of property. A domestic affair of great importance, which is no less than the disposal of my sister Jenny for life. Tatler.

assign to a use; to bestow for an object or purpose; to apply; to employ; to dispose of. Importuned him that what he designed to bestow on her funeral, he would rather dispose among the poor. Evelyn.

lar; distinct; separate. The word . . . is used in a sense very diverse from its original import. J. Edwards. Our roads are diverse: farewell, love! said she. R. Browning.

sly or indefatigably; to chase with a dog or dogs; to worry, as if by dogs; to hound with importunity. I have been pursued, dogged, and waylaid. Pope. Your sins will dog you, pursue you. Burroughs. Eager ill-bred petitioners, who do not so properly supplicate as hunt the person whom they address to, dogging him from pl…

anner or character of a dogmatist; arrogance or positiveness in stating opinion. The self-importance of his demeanor, and the dogmatism of his conversation. Sir W. Scott.

Self-importance; loftiness of carriage. [Cant, Eng. Universities]

r bearer; a statue of a man holding a spear or in the attitude of a spear bearer. Several important sculptures of this subject existed in antiquity, copies of which remain to us.

ness; destruction; ruin. Dire were the consequences which would follow the downfall of so important a place. Motley.

asting of draperies. See under Casting. The casting of draperies . . . is one of the most important of an artist's studies. Fairholt.

efore the invasion of tribes speaking Sanskrit. Of these languages, the Tamil is the most important.

ent, course of conduct, or the like; object aimed at or intended; intention; hence, also, import or meaning of a sentence or discourse; aim. He has made the drift of the whole poem a compliment on his country in general. Addison. Now thou knowest my drift. Sir W. Scott.

To ask or beset, as a debtor, for payment; to urge importunately. Hath she sent so soon to dun Swift.

utch clover (Bot.), common white clover (Trifolium repens), the seed of which was largely imported into England from Holland. -- Dutch concert, a so-called concert in which all the singers sing at the same time different songs. [Slang] -- Dutch courage, the courage of partial intoxication. [Slang] Marryat. -- Dutch d…

ll, impost, or customs; excise; any sum of money required by government to be paid on the importation, exportation, or consumption of goods.