ENGLISH
REFERENCE

moulin

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //muˈɫæn// UK //mˈuːlɪn// moulin

n. a small, deep hole in the ground that is often filled with water. It is usually found in soft rock like limestone and can be dangerous because the sides are steep and slippery.

n. a small, deep, cylindrical hole in the ground, typically found in limestone or other soluble rock. Often contains water and is formed by the collapse of a cave roof or the erosion of a sinkhole.


SIMPLE

The hikers were warned to stay away from the moulin in the limestone field.

CONTEXTUAL

After the heavy rains, the moulin filled with water and became a deep blue pool that looked like a well.

COMPLEX

The landscape was dotted with numerous moulins, their steep walls providing a stark contrast to the surrounding flat grasslands and serving as a reminder of the region's extensive subterranean drainage system.

Origin

Borrowed from French moulin, from Late Latin molinum (“mill”). Doublet of moline and mill.

© 2026 English Reference