bawn

noun

ˈbȯn 

plural -s

: an enclosure usually of mud or stone walls about a farmhouse or castle in Ireland: such as

a

: the fortified court of a castle

b

: a fold for livestock, especially cattle

Word History

Etymology

Irish Gaelic badhūn enclosure, bulwark, from Middle Irish bōdhūn, from bō cow + dūn enclosure, from Old Irish, castle, fortified town; akin to Old English cū cow

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