Linn

/lɪn/ noun

Definition

A Scottish and northern English term for a waterfall, pool, or ravine, especially one formed by water erosion. Also used as a surname or place name.

Etymology

From Scottish Gaelic linne meaning 'pool' or 'waterfall', related to Welsh llyn meaning 'lake'. The word reflects the Celtic linguistic heritage of Scotland and northern England's geographical terminology.

Kelly Says

Linn is a beautiful example of how landscape shapes language - this Celtic word survived in Scottish English because the rugged terrain it describes is so characteristic of the region! Many Scottish place names ending in '-linn' mark spots where ancient peoples recognized the power of water to carve the land.

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