atiptoe

Etymology

Definitions

1. 1

   On tiptoe

   On tiptoe; on the tips of one's toes in order to move quietly or to stand taller.

   • We content not our ſelves with ſtanding a tiptoe for to appear greater than others; we ſtrive ſtill either to make them fall, or for to abaſe them for to appear greater by their abaſement.
2. 2

   Quietly, and little by little.

   • Don't you ſee that Moor who comes a tiptoe creeping and ſtealing along with his finger in his mouth behind Meliſandra? Hear what a ſmack he gives on her ſweet lips, and ſee how ſhe ſpits and wipes her mouth with her white ſmock-ſleeve!
   • But silence fell upon her atiptoe mid her thoughts, straining for the great truth of moral conduct in a world of shams and convention.
3. 3

   Without retreating from adversity, confrontation, or danger

   Without retreating from adversity, confrontation, or danger; standing tall; bravely, proudly, unyieldingly.

   • This day is call'd the Feaſt of Criſpian: / He that out-liues this day, and comes ſafe home, / Will ſtand a tip-toe when this day is nam'd, / And rowſe him at the Name of Criſpian.
   • Druina’s Majeſty never ſtood ſo high a tiptoe, nor ſhind vvith a greater luſtre; […]
4. ›+ 1 more definitionshow fewer

   1. 4

      In a state of anticipation

      In a state of anticipation; keenly awaiting.

      • Consider therefore if, on this Wednesday morning, there is an affluence of Patriotism; if Paris stands a-tiptoe, and all Deputies are at their post! […] Meanwhile expectant Patriotism and Paris standing a-tiptoe, have need of patience.
      • [A]ll Europe now stands atiptoe, anxiously watching for the what next.

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