Weir
/wɪə/noun
A barrier across a river or stream to regulate water flow.
Did you know?In medieval times, weirs were often believed to hold magical properties, controlling not just water but the very fate of the land around them.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*wairaz
“A dam or enclosure for fish, often associated with magical waters.”
Old English
OE
wier
“A fence or dam used in rivers, often with mystical associations.”
Middle English
ME
wer
“A barrier or dam in water, still linked to enchantment and control.”
Modern English
Eng
weir
“A structure to control water flow, yet still hinting at its magical origins.”