Downland

/ˈdaʊnlənd/ noun

Definition

Open, rolling countryside consisting of chalk or limestone hills, especially the treeless upland grasslands found in southern England.

Etymology

Compound of 'down' (from Old English 'dūn', meaning hill—related to 'dune') and 'land' (Old English 'land'). Originally meant hilly terrain that was open for grazing.

Kelly Says

The word 'down' meaning 'hill' comes from the same root as 'dune,' and English downlands are dramatically different from the 'downs' in Australia—same word, completely different landscapes!

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