Bran
/bræn/noun
The outer layer of cereal grains, especially wheat, that is removed during milling.
Did you know?In ancient rituals, bran was often used as an offering to deities, symbolizing the life cycle and rebirth of grain.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bher-
“to carry or to produce, relating to nourishment and growth.”
Old English
OE
brēam
“the husk or grain, specifically of barley.”
Old Norse
ON
brunnr
“spring or well, symbolizing nourishment and life.”
Middle English
ME
bran
“the husk of grain, often seen as a byproduct of milling.”
Modern English
English
bran
“the outer layer of cereal grains, significant in nutrition and health.”