yan
Yan (num) means one (a dialectal counting word used in traditional Cumbrian and Northumbrian sheep-counting rhymes). Example: “The old shepherd still counted his flock with "yan, tan, tethera.”
How to use yan
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishMostly known today as a given name, or as a dialect word for "one" in old sheep-counting rhymes.
Word forms
Yans plural
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The old shepherd still counted his flock with "_____, tan, tethera."
Etymology
A Cumbrian and Northumbrian dialect form of "one," descended from Old English ān.
Rhymes for yan
See all rhymes for 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).
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