How Do You Spell SARSEN?

Pronunciation: [sˈɑːsən] (IPA)

The word "Sarsen" is commonly used to describe the large, sandstone boulders found in southern England. It is pronounced as /ˈsɑːrsən/, with the initial "s" being voiceless and the "a" being pronounced as "ah". The following vowel, "r", is pronounced with slight tension in the tongue and the final "n" is pronounced with a nasal sound. The spelling of "sarsen" reflects its Old English origin, where "sar" meant "rock" and "sen" meant "large".

SARSEN Meaning and Definition

1. Sarsen is a term that refers to a type of sandstone commonly found in the English counties of Wiltshire and Berkshire. This durable sedimentary rock is characterized by its hard and resistant qualities, making it an ideal material for construction purposes. Sarsen stones are typically massive and have a rough, weathered exterior with a greyish-brown color.

   Historically, sarsen stones have been widely used in the construction of various structures, including megalithic monuments such as Stonehenge. At Stonehenge, sarsens were utilized as the principal material for the large standing stones. These stones were carefully shaped and arranged to create the iconic ceremonial structure.

   Due to its hardness and resistance to weathering, sarsen is also frequently employed in the construction of buildings, walls, and pavements. Its durability allows it to withstand the test of time and harsh environmental conditions.

   The term "sarsen" originates from the Old English word "sar," meaning hard or severe. Its use in this context reflects the physical characteristics and strength of the stone itself. The name has been used for centuries to describe this particular type of sandstone found in the region, specifically in the Salisbury Plain area.

   In summary, sarsen refers to a hard and durable sandstone commonly found in Wiltshire and Berkshire. It has played a significant role in the construction of historic monuments and continues to be utilized in various architectural applications.

Common Misspellings for SARSEN

• saesen
• sa5sen
• sasen
• Sa2sen

Etymology of SARSEN

The word "Sarsen" has its roots in Old English. It is derived from the Late Latin word "saxum" meaning "stone" or "rock". In Old English, it evolved into "sarstān", which referred specifically to a type of sandstone commonly found in the south of England. Over time, "sarstān" eventually transformed into "sarsen", the term used today to describe the large, siliceous sandstone blocks found in Salisbury Plain and other parts of southern England. These stones were used in various constructions, including Stonehenge.

Plural form of SARSEN is SARSENS