distance

1. distance (noun) — sense 1

Definition: An amount of space between points (often geographical points), usually (but not necessarily) measured along a straight line.

Example: [S]he […] gaue vs into our boate our ſupper halfe dreſſed, pots, and all, and brought vs to our boates ſide, in which wee laye all night, remoouing the ſame a pretie diſtance from the ſhoare: […]

2. distance (noun) — sense 2

Definition: An amount of space between points (often geographical points), usually (but not necessarily) measured along a straight line.: Chiefly in by a distance: a space of more than 30 lengths (about 80 yards or 7.3 metres) between two racehorses finishing a race, used to describe the margin of victory; also (archaic), any space of 240 yards (about 219.5 metres) on a racecourse.

3. distance (noun) — sense 3

Definition: Chiefly in from a distance: a place which is far away or remote; specifically (especially painting), a more remote part of a landscape or view as contrasted with the foreground.

Example: VVhen from a Diſtance (I ſpeak vvith the Vulgar) vve behold great Objects, the Particles of the intermediate Air and Vapours, vvhich are themſelves unperceivable, do interrupt the Rays of Light, and thereby render the Appearance leſs Strong and Vivid; […]

4. distance (verb) — sense 4

Definition: Often followed by from: to set (someone or something) at a distance (noun sense 1.1) from someone or something else.

Example: If therefore the Interpoſition of Gloceſterſhire diſtanceth VVorceſterſhire from confining on the VVeſt-Saxons, the Animadvertor ought to have vented his diſpleaſure not on Me, but on Bede, and [Henry of] Huntington, vvhoſe vvords I exactly tranſlated.

5. distance (verb) — sense 5

Definition: To cause (a place, a thing, etc.) to seem distant, or (figurative) unfamiliar.

Example: That vvhich gives the Relievo to a Bovvl, (may ſome ſay to me) is the quick Light, or the vvhite, vvhich appears to be on the ſide, vvhich is neareſt to us, and the black by conſequence diſtances the Object: […]

6. distance (verb) — sense 6

Definition: To leave behind (someone or something moving in the same direction; specifically, other competitors in a race) some distance away; to outpace, to outstrip.

Example: Our fleeter steeds have distanced our attendants; / They lag behind us with a slower pace; / We will await them under the green pendants / Of the great willows in this shady place.