yan
1 synonym for yan, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Num — One (a dialectal counting word used in traditional Cumbrian and Northumbrian sheep-counting rhymes).
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Etymology
A Cumbrian and Northumbrian dialect form of "one," descended from Old English ān.
Full origin of yan →Frequently asked questions
What does “yan” mean?
The word “yan” means one (a dialectal counting word used in traditional Cumbrian and Northumbrian sheep-counting rhymes). In plain terms, mostly known today as a given name, or as a dialect word for "one" in old sheep-counting rhymes.
How do you pronounce “yan”?
“Yan” is pronounced yan (/jæn/ in IPA).
How do you use “yan” in a sentence?
Here is “yan” used in a sentence: “The old shepherd still counted his flock with "yan, tan, tethera.".”
What part of speech is “yan”?
Depending on how it is used, “yan” can be a num, a det and a name.
Where does the word “yan” come from?
The word “yan” comes from Old English. A Cumbrian and Northumbrian dialect form of "one," descended from Old English ān.
Is “yan” a common word?
“Yan” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “yan” have?
“Yan” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: one (a dialectal counting word used in traditional Cumbrian and Northumbrian sheep-counting rhymes).
