Ryeland

noun

Rye·​land

ˈrīlənd

1

: an old English breed of hardy hornless white-faced sheep producing high quality wool and quick-maturing lambs of good size

2

or ryeland plural Ryelands or ryelands : an animal of the Ryeland breed

Word History

Etymology

from Ryelands, district and hamlet in Herefordshire, England

First Known Use

1802, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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