name Uncommon

Avon

AY-vuhn

Avon (name) means the name of several rivers in the UK and elsewhere, most famously the river running through Stratford-upon-Avon and Bristol. Example: “Shakespeare's birthplace sits on the banks of the River Avon.”

name

The name of several rivers in the UK and elsewhere, most famously the river running through Stratford-upon-Avon and Bristol.

"Shakespeare's birthplace sits on the banks of the River Avon."

How to use Avon

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA common British river name, best known from Stratford-upon-Avon.

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Shakespeare's birthplace sits on the banks of the River _____.

Etymology

From Proto-Brythonic *aβon, "river" — related to Welsh afon, so "River Avon" literally means "River River".

Origin: Welsh

Frequently asked questions

What does “Avon” mean?

The word “Avon” means the name of several rivers in the UK and elsewhere, most famously the river running through Stratford-upon-Avon and Bristol. In plain terms, a common British river name, best known from Stratford-upon-Avon.

How do you pronounce “Avon”?

“Avon” is pronounced AY-vuhn (/ˈeɪ.vɑn/ in IPA).

How do you use “Avon” in a sentence?

Here is “Avon” used in a sentence: “Shakespeare's birthplace sits on the banks of the River Avon.”

What part of speech is “Avon”?

“Avon” is a name.

Where does the word “Avon” come from?

The word “Avon” comes from Welsh. From Proto-Brythonic *aβon, "river" — related to Welsh afon, so "River Avon" literally means "River River".

Is “Avon” a common word?

“Avon” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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Vocabulary lists that include Avon:

Words with Celtic origins