sarsen

noun

sar·​sen
ˈsärsᵊn
plural -s
: a large loose residual mass of stone left after the erosion of a once continuous bed or layer
specifically : one of the large sandstone blocks scattered over the English chalk downs

called also druid stone

Word History

Etymology

short for sarsen stone, alteration of Saracen stone, i.e., a pagan stone or monument

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near sarsen

Cite this Entry

“Sarsen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sarsen. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!