ENGLISH
REFERENCE

plymouth

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈpɫɪməθ// ply·mouth

n. a famous port city in southwest England. It is well known as the place where the Pilgrims sailed from to reach North America in 1620.

n. a major port city and naval base in Devon, England, situated between the mouths of the rivers Plym and Tamar. Historically significant as the departure point for the Mayflower and other colonial expeditions.


SIMPLE

We took a ferry from Plymouth to France.

CONTEXTUAL

The city of Plymouth played a vital role in British maritime history as a primary base for the Royal Navy.

COMPLEX

The historic Barbican district in Plymouth retains much of its original character, serving as a reminder of the city's prominence during the Elizabethan era and the subsequent age of exploration.

Origin

From Plym + mouth, referring to the river's mouth.

Usage

Usually functions as a proper noun; when used as a common noun in historical contexts, it may refer to specific types of locally produced goods like gin.

© 2026 English Reference