dell
4 synonyms and 0 antonyms for dell, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A small, deep valley, especially one that is wooded or hollowed out naturally.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Etymology
From Old English dell ("small dale"), from Proto-Germanic *daljō — related to the English word dale.
Full origin of dell →Frequently asked questions
What does “dell” mean?
The word “dell” means a small, deep valley, especially one that is wooded or hollowed out naturally. In plain terms, a small, cosy valley, usually with trees around it — the kind of word you find in old poems and fairy tales.
How do you pronounce “dell”?
“Dell” is pronounced dehl (/dɛl/ in IPA).
How do you use “dell” in a sentence?
Here is “dell” used in a sentence: “A stream wound through the shaded dell.”
What part of speech is “dell”?
“Dell” is a noun.
Where does the word “dell” come from?
The word “dell” comes from Old English. From Old English dell ("small dale"), from Proto-Germanic *daljō — related to the English word dale.
Is “dell” a common word?
“Dell” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between a dell and a valley?
A dell is a small, deep valley, typically one that is wooded or naturally hollowed out, whereas a valley can be of any size and does not need to be small or forested. Dell describes a cozier, more intimate landscape feature, often found in poetry and place names.
Is dell an old-fashioned word?
Dell has a literary and slightly old-fashioned feel today, surviving mainly in poetry, folk songs, and place names rather than everyday speech. It is still understood but less commonly used than plainer terms like valley or hollow.
What kind of landscape does dell typically describe?
A dell specifically describes a small, deep valley that is often wooded or naturally hollowed out, giving it a sheltered, secluded feel. This distinguishes it from broader terms like valley, which can describe much larger or more open landforms.