The word "grange" (ɡreɪndʒ) is a noun that refers to a farm or agricultural estate, typically with a large farmhouse and outbuildings. The spelling of this word is straightforward, with the "g" being pronounced as a voiced velar stop, followed by a long "a" sound represented by the letter "a". The "n" and "g" sounds are then pronounced together as a velar nasal. Finally, the "e" at the end of the word is silent. Overall, the spelling of "grange" accurately reflects its pronunciation.
A grange refers to a rural farm or an agricultural settlement, typically associated with the operations of a specific organization. Historically, it denoted a farm owned and managed by a religious institution or order, often serving as a self-sufficient unit where monks or nuns cultivated crops and raised livestock.
More broadly, a grange can also be defined as a farmstead or a rural community center established for agricultural purposes. In this context, it acts as a hub for farmers and local producers to assemble, collaborate, and exchange goods and ideas. These granges often play a vital role in educating rural communities about agricultural practices, organizing events, and advocating for farmers' rights, thereby strengthening the local agricultural sector.
The term "grange" is sometimes specifically associated with the national organization known as the Grange itself. Founded in the United States in 1867, the Grange, also called the Order of Patrons of Husbandry, is a fraternal organization dedicated to improving farmers' lives and promoting rural interests. The Grange operates local chapters known as granges that provide various services and support for rural communities, such as educational programs, community events, and lobbying for agricultural policies. These granges serve as focal points where farmers can connect with others, share knowledge, and collectively address issues affecting their livelihoods.
Overall, a grange represents both a physical entity in the form of a farm or agricultural settlement, as well as a collective community center that fosters the well-being and unity of farmers, promoting their interests and rural development.
A granary; a farmhouse with its attached buildings.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "grange" originated from the Latin word "granica", which means "granary" or "storehouse". From Latin, it evolved through Old French as "graunge" and then made its way into Middle English as "grange". Initially, it referred specifically to a granary or a barn where grain was stored. Over time, the term expanded its meaning to denote a farm or rural estate under the control of a monastic community or a feudal lord. Today, "grange" can refer to a farm, a farmhouse, or a rural agricultural organization.