ENGLISH
REFERENCE

norfolk

n. uncountable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈnɔɹfək// nor·folk Archaic

n. a large county in the east of England known for its flat land and farming. It is a popular place for holidays because of its long coastline and quiet countryside.

n. a maritime county in East Anglia, England, characterized by low-lying topography and extensive agricultural land. It is bounded by the North Sea to the north and east.


SIMPLE

We spent our summer holiday exploring the coast of Norfolk.

CONTEXTUAL

Many people move to Norfolk for a slower pace of life among the historic villages and winding waterways.

COMPLEX

The architectural heritage of Norfolk is defined by its medieval churches and grand country estates, reflecting the region's historical prosperity as a center for the wool trade.

Origin

From Middle English Northfolk, from Old English Norþfolc (literally “northern people”), from norþ (“north, northern”) + folc (“folk, people, race, nation”). As an Ecuadorian island, clipping of Duke of Norfolk's Island, bestowed by William Ambrosia Cowley in 1684 honor of Henry Howard, 6th Duke of Norfolk; his son Henry, the 7th duke; or both. As an Australian island and territory, bestowed by James Cook in 1774 in honor of Mary Howard, wife of the 9th duke.

Usage

As a proper noun, it is capitalized and typically used without an article.

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