Top definition
Reading a book or poem so carefully (while constantly referencing the OED), that you suddenly discover something "new and special" about one word in the poem. This word then magically allows you to write three paragraphs about its "new and special meaning." All the while during this "close reading," you will be contemplating suicide as your face, body, and mental thought process will hurt with the agony of forced close analysis.
Bob: I've got a twenty seven page paper due tomorrow on a four line poem.
Chris: Man you better do a close reading of that poem.
Chris: Man you better do a close reading of that poem.
by Close Reader English Major November 28, 2010
Sep 12 Word of the Day
Anatidaephobia is defined as a pervasive, irrational fear that one is being watched by a duck. The anatidaephobic individual fears that no matter where they are or what they are doing, a duck watches.
Anatidaephobia is derived from the Greek word "anatidae", meaning ducks, geese or swans and "phobos" meaning fear.
Anatidaephobia is derived from the Greek word "anatidae", meaning ducks, geese or swans and "phobos" meaning fear.
by blank babushka October 24, 2009
2
Reading a book in a state of exhaustion, resulting in ones face dropping steadily closer to the page.
I was at the library doing some close reading. Woke up and I had dissolved several verses of Keats in drool.
by Luke T September 15, 2007