avalon

avalon — noun

1. the magical island in King Arthur stories where the wounded Arthur is brought on

1.nounB2
Definition

the magical island in King Arthur stories where the wounded Arthur is brought once his final battle is over, often as a place of healing and rest

Example

Hugo said the queens carried Arthur across the water to Avalon.

carry Arthur to Avalon after the final battle

In Zola's play, Avalon is a misty island beyond Britain's western shore.

Avalon as a mythical island setting

Common collocations
  • the isle of Avalon
  • sail to Avalon
  • journey to Avalon
  • Arthur in Avalon

Usage Note

Usually appears in retellings of King Arthur or in discussions linking the legend to Glastonbury. It names one specific mythical place, not a general word for any paradise island.

Common Mistakes

Arthur went to an Avalon after the battle.
Arthur went to Avalon after the battle.
Avalon is a unique place name, so it does not normally take 'a' or 'an'.

Etymology

First known use

13th century

13th century, in the meaning defined above