Normandie

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A historical region in northwestern France, known for its picturesque landscapes and significant role in World War II
2. A cultural and geographical area in France that includes the English Channel coast and is famous for its dairy products and apples
3. A territory steeped in history, significant for its impressionist art and as the landing site of Allied forces during the D-Day invasion

Etymology: The name began as a description of people. "Normans" were the Vikings who raided and settled across northern Europe, and their name came from Old Norse "norðmaðr," meaning "northman." In 911, the Frankish king Charles the Simple granted a Viking leader named Rollo land around the lower Seine in exchange for peace and an oath of loyalty. The territory became known as the land of the Northmen, and "Normandie" was derived from the people's name, not the reverse. Within a few generations, these settlers had largely adopted the French language and Christian customs of their neighbours. In 1066, William, Duke of Normandy, conquered England, and the regional name entered English as "Normandy."

Synonyms: normandy