thew

1 definition found

thew - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Thew \Thew\ (th[=u]), n.
  
     Note: [Chiefly used in the plural Thews (th[=u]z).] [OE.
           thew, [thorn]eau, manner, habit, strength, AS.
           [thorn]e['a]w manner, habit (cf. [thorn][=y]wan to
           drive); akin to OS. thau custom, habit, OHG. dou.
           [root]56.]
     1. Manner; custom; habit; form of behavior; qualities of
        mind; disposition; specifically, good qualities; virtues.
        [Obs.]
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              For her great light
              Of sapience, and for her thews clear. --Chaucer.
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              Evil speeches destroy good thews.     --Wyclif (1
                                                    Cor. xv. 33).
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              To be upbrought in gentle thews and martial might.
                                                    --Spenser.
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     2. Muscle or strength; nerve; brawn; sinew. --Shak.
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              And I myself, who sat apart
              And watched them, waxed in every limb;
              I felt the thews of Anakim,
              The pules of a Titan's heart.         --Tennyson.
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