Dell (landform)



In physical geography, a dell is a grassy hollow—or dried stream bed—often partially covered in trees. In literature, dells have pastoral connotations, frequently imagined as secluded and pleasant safe havens.

The word "dell" comes from the Old English word dell, which is related to the Old English word dæl, modern 'dale'. The term is sometimes used interchangeably with the word "dingle", although "dingle" specifically refers to deep ravines or hollows that are embowered with trees. The terms have also been combined to form examples of tautological placenames in Dingle Dell, Kent, and Dingle Dell Reserve, Auckland.

In popular culture

 * — Tolkien's fictional Elvish locale.
 * "The Farmer in the Dell" – an American folk song brought to United States by German immigrants.