hedge school

noun

: a school held out of doors especially in Ireland

Word History

Etymology

so called from the fact that in 17th and 18th century Ireland schools were held outside in out-of-the-way places to evade the law on Catholic education

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now