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hornbeam
noun
Examples of hornbeam in a Sentence
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'hornbeam.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
Middle English hernbem, from hern- (of uncertain meaning and origin) + bem "tree" — more at beam entry 1
Note: The tree name hornbeam is generally taken to be a compound of horn and the etymon represented by Modern English beam entry 1, which in Old English and early Middle English could mean "tree." However, the scant Middle English attestation—a single occurrence of the word in Chancery inquisitions as hernbem, and forms of the Hertfordshire place name Hornbeam Lane (Herinbemegatestret, Hernebemgate)—suggest that horn may have been a folk etymology from an earlier word.
14th century, in the meaning defined above
Phrases Containing hornbeam
Dictionary Entries Near hornbeam
Cite this Entry
“Hornbeam.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hornbeam. Accessed 13 Jun. 2024.
Kids Definition
hornbeam
nounMore from Merriam-Webster on hornbeam
Nglish: Translation of hornbeam for Spanish Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about hornbeam
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