Autumn

Autumn

AW-tum /ˈɔːtəm/
Noun United Kingdom

The British don’t have Fall, they have Autumn, the season that precedes winter.

Example Sentences

"That's a proper Autumn, that is."
"I've never seen such a Autumn in all my life."

Etymology & History

British term for fall season, from Latin 'autumnus' via Old French. Both English varieties have both words, but British strongly prefer 'autumn', Americans 'fall' (from 'fall of the leaf'). The preference split occurred in 17th-18th centuries as American English developed. British choice reflects latinate influence.

Word Details

📍
Region
General British
📅
Era
Modern
Language
Mild
💬
Formality
Informal
Categories:

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