Middle English Dictionary Entry

fal n.
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Entry Info

Forms fal n. Also val. Pl. falles, vallen.
Etymology OE feall, gefeall (rare; usu. fiell, fyll).

Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)

1.
(a) Physical descent from a higher to a lower position; a fall, a drop; fal doun; also fig.; (b) fal of water, a waterfall; (c) fal windou, a shutter so hinged at the bottom that it can be dropped.
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2.
Descent from spiritual grace or moral rectitude; transgression, a lapse (into sin).
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3.
(a) Descent from prosperity or high estate; a decline in fortune, misfortune; haven a fal; also fig.; (b) whatever befalls or happens; fate.
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4.
A falling to the ground from a standing or riding position; also, a dropping dead.
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5.
The striking down (of a person) to the ground; also, the condition of being brought to the ground or overcome in conflict; defeat or destruction; yeven a fal.
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6.
Collapse, destruction, or ruin (of buildings, etc.).
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7.
A lineal measure of land shorter than a rod; also, the corresponding square measure. [See Craigie DOS fall n. (1).]
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8.
A jocular 'proper term' for a covey (of woodcocks).
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Supplemental Materials (draft)

Note: Med., etc., see further J.Norri, Dictionary of Medical Vocabulary, s.v. fall.

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