Rushbearing
/ˈrʌʃˌbɛərɪŋ/noun
A traditional English custom of carrying rushes to a church or village for decoration, especially at an annual celebration.
Did you know?Rushbearing survives as a folk custom rooted in medieval church life, when rushes were carried in procession and spread on floors as both practical insulation and a symbolic renewal of sacred space.
Etymological Timeline
Old English
OE
rysc
“rush, a reed-like marsh plant”
Old English
OE
beran
“to carry, bear, or bring forth”
Middle English
EN
rushes bearing
“the carrying of rushes for church or household use”
19th Century
EN
rushbearing
“the ceremonial custom of bringing rushes to a church or settlement”
Modern English
EN
rushbearing
“a traditional local festival or procession involving rushes”