don't

Definition

do not (negative auxiliary).

Etymology

From do + -n't. Depending on dialect, its use in the third-person singular may be from elision (in these dialects "does" is used when not in the negative) or from not using -s to mark the third-person singular at all.

Example Sentences

• "Don't you think mom's awfully busy today?"
• "Don't be such a nuisance!"
• "Far be 't from lust; such wildfire ne'er / Shall dare to lurk or kindle here; / Diviner flames shall in our fancies roll, / Which do n't [sic] depress / To earthliness, / But elevate the soul."