NORMAN FRENCH
\nˈɔːmən fɹˈɛnt͡ʃ], \nˈɔːmən fɹˈɛntʃ], \n_ˈɔː_m_ə_n f_ɹ_ˈɛ_n_tʃ]\
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The tongue in which several formal proceedings of state in England are still carried on. The language, having remained the same since the date of the Conquest, at which it was introduced into England, is very different from the French of this day, retaining all the peculiarities which at that time distinguished every province from the rest. A peculiar mode of pronunciation (considered authentic) is handed down and preserved by the officials who have, on particular occasions, to speak the tongue. Norman French was the language of English legal procedure till the 36 Edw. III. (A. D. 13S2). Wharton.
By Henry Campbell Black
Word of the day
Snake's-head
- Guinea-hen flower; -- so called in England because its spotted petals resemble the scales of a snake's head.