Dictionary.com

manifold

\MAN-uh-fohld\,

adjective:


1. Of many kinds; numerous and varied: manifold duties.
2. Having numerous different parts, elements, features, forms, etc.: a manifold program for social reform.

noun:

1. Something having many different parts or features.
2. A copy or facsimile, as of something written, such as is made by manifolding

verb:

1. To make copies of, as with carbon paper.

The possible moves being not only manifold, but involute, the chances of such oversights are multiplied; and in nine cases out of ten, it is the more concentrative rather than the more acute player who conquers.

-- Edgar Allen Poe, "The Murders in the Rue Morgue," Great Tales and Poems of Edgar Allan Poe

Whatever his arrangements are, however, they are always a pattern of neatness; and every one of the manifold articles connected with his manifold occupations is to be found in its own particular place.

-- Charles Dickens, Master Humphrey's Clock

Manifold comes from the Old English word monigfald meaning "varied in appearance." The English suffix -fold originally meant "of so many parts."

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Saturday September 8, 2012