# Dolan

/ˈdoʊɫən/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dolan
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a valley, especially a small or narrow one. This is an old word that you mostly see in place names or poetry.

For teachers: a valley or dale, typically one that is small or narrow. Primarily a regional or archaic term, now most frequently encountered in toponymy or literary contexts.

## Examples

- The small stream flowed through the green dolan.
- The hikers followed the path as it dipped into a secluded dolan hidden between the two ridges.
- The poet describes a landscape of rugged peaks and verdant dolans, capturing the quiet isolation of the rural highlands before the onset of winter.

## Usage notes

- Often found as a component in historical place names or used in a poetic register.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.