Cromlech

Websters definition is still often used, but cromlech has gained another meaning: A circle of standing stones around either a central stone, a dolmen, or a mound. This use is more common on the Continent than in the British Isles.

It is also sometimes used to refer to a single standing stone.

Crom"lech (kr?m"lµk), n. [W. cromlech; crom bending or bent, concave + llech a flat stone; akin to Ir. cromleac.] Archol.

A monument of rough stones composed of one or more large ones supported in a horizontal position upon others. They are found chiefly in countris inhabited by the ancient Celts, and are of a period anterior to the introduction of Christianity into these countries.

 

© Webster 1913.