noun
legend
LEHJ-uhnd
noun
1
A traditional story from the past, often only partly true.
"According to legend, the town was founded by a lost sailor."
"Local legend says the lake is haunted by a drowned bride."
2
A person famous for extraordinary achievements.
"The retired footballer is regarded as a legend of the sport."
3
A key explaining the symbols used on a map or chart.
"Check the legend to see what each colour on the map represents."
How to Use Legend
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA traditional tale passed down over time, a famously accomplished person, or a map's explanatory key.
Common pairings
urban legend
living legend
map legend
Word Forms
legended past tense, legends plural, legends singular
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According to _____, the town was founded by a lost sailor.
Etymology
From Latin legenda, "things to be read," originally referring to accounts of saints' lives read aloud in church.