Barrow
/ˈbæroʊ/noun
A large mound of earth or stone used for burial or as a memorial.
Did you know?In ancient times, barrows were often believed to be portals to the spirit world, connected to rituals and offerings to the dead.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bher-
“to carry or to bear, suggesting a connection to lifting or carrying the dead.”
Old English
Old English
beorg
“a hill or mound, often associated with burial sites.”
Old Norse
Old Norse
björg
“a hill, mountain, or burial mound.”
Middle English
Middle English
berwe
“a mound or barrow used for burials.”
Modern English
English
barrow
“a term for burial mounds or earthworks.”