English Reference
noun

dale

n.
US /ˈdeɪɫ/ UK /dˈeɪl/ dale UK spelling dale's, dale's

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate British EnglishLiterary

    a valley, usually in a hilly area like Northern England.

    a valley, specifically one located in an upland or hilly region. The term is a common topographic element in Northern English and Scottish place names.

    Simple

    We spent the whole afternoon walking through the green dales of Yorkshire.

    In context

    The hikers descended into the mist-covered dale, where a small stream wound through the limestone floor of the valley.

    Usage

    Often used in the plural ('the Dales') to refer to the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

    Teacher's tip

    While 'valley' is the standard term, 'dale' is preferred in Northern England and is essential for understanding British geography and pastoral poetry.

Hers is the only house on the road winding through a valley deep in the Yorkshire Dales.

The Guardian· 18 Jul 2026
This entry
Level C2 · Proficiency
Frequency Frequent
Updated