Middle English Dictionary Entry
trenchen v.
Entry Info
| Forms | trenchen v. Also trench(e. |
| Etymology | OF trenchier, AF trencher. |
Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)
1.
(a) To dig trenches in (the ground); ppl. trenching as adj.: sharp [cp. trenchaunt adj. (a)]; (b) in surnames.
Associated quotations
a
- a1400 MPPsalter (Dub 69)149.6 : Trenchyng swerdes [Add: Þe ioies of God ben in her þrote, & swerdes sharppe a boþe half in her hondes].
- a1500(1422) Yonge SSecr.(Rwl B.490)175/1 : Cyrus..did assembill workemen by thowsandis, and trenchyd and dalwe the growne, and departid the ryuer in ccc and lx Parties.
b
- (1197) Nickname in LuSE 55178 : Al. Trenchmer.
- (1198) Nickname in LuSE 55178 : Henr. Trencheuent.
- (1214) in Reaney Dict.Br.Surnames354 : Walter Trenchebof.
- (1252) Close R.Hen.III254 : Adam Trencheglace.
- (1297) Nickname in LuSE 55178 : Margar' Trenchemere.
- (1327-8) Freeman R.in KRec.18187 : Robertus Trenchemer.
- -?-(1166) Red Bk.Exch.in RS 99345 : Johannes Trenchefoil.