SARSENSTONES Meaning and
Definition
-
Sarsenstones, also known as sarsens, are a type of hard, siliceous sandstone or a conglomerate rock containing sand-sized grains held together by a natural cementing material. The term "sarsen" is derived from "Saracen," a medieval term referring to Arabs, suggesting that these stones were brought from afar.
These stones are predominantly found in Britain, particularly in Salisbury Plain and other areas of southern England. Sarsens are recognized for their durable and rugged nature, making them highly valued for various architectural, construction, and monumental purposes. They are typically light brown or gray in color, with a rough, weathered surface and irregular shapes, often resembling large pillars or blocks.
Historically, sarsenstones have been used extensively in the construction of megalithic structures, such as Stonehenge and Avebury, where they were arranged in standing stones or lintels. Furthermore, their hardness and strength have made them suitable for diverse uses, including millstones, gateposts, and paving materials. The large size and weight of sarsenstones necessitate substantial effort and transportation to move them from their original locations.
While sarsens are confined mainly to southern England, they share some similarities with other sandstone varieties found in different parts of the world. Despite their localized occurrence, sarsenstones hold significant geological, historical, and cultural value, contributing to their importance in archaeology, geology, and other disciplines.
Common Misspellings for SARSENSTONES
- aarsenstones
- zarsenstones
- xarsenstones
- darsenstones
- earsenstones
- warsenstones
- szrsenstones
- ssrsenstones
- swrsenstones
- sqrsenstones
- saesenstones
- sadsenstones
- safsenstones
- satsenstones
- sa5senstones
- sa4senstones
- saraenstones
- sarzenstones
- sarxenstones
- sardenstones
Etymology of SARSENSTONES
The word sarsenstones is believed to have originated from the Old English word serr, meaning saracen or pagan, combined with the word stan, meaning stone. The term was likely used to describe the large sandstone or silcrete boulders found in Salisbury Plain and other areas of southern England, which were often associated with prehistoric monuments like Stonehenge. Over time, serr-stan or sarrston evolved into the modern term sarsenstone.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
