apennine
|a-pen-nin|
/əˈpɛnɪn/
Italian mountain range
Etymology
'Apennine' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'Apenninus', where the element 'pen' is believed to have meant 'mountain' (possibly from a pre-Roman or Celtic root meaning 'head' or 'hill').
'Apennine' came into English via Latin 'Apenninus' (Medieval/Church Latin) and Middle English usage, eventually becoming the modern English form 'Apennine' (often used in plural as 'Apennines').
Initially it referred to the specific mountain chain in Italy (as in Latin); over time the meaning has remained essentially the same, denoting that mountain range or things relating to it.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a mountain range that runs the length of the Italian peninsula (the Apennines). Often used in the plural form 'the Apennines.'
The Apennines form the backbone of the Italian peninsula.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
relating to the Apennines or to that region of Italy.
They explored Apennine villages famous for their stone houses.
Last updated: 2025/09/15 05:10