Glen

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Glen

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun

Pronunciation

glen  /ɡlɛn/

Definition

A narrow valley, especially in Scotland or Ireland, typically with steep sides and a river or stream running through it.

Plain meaning

A glen is a narrow mountain valley — particularly in Scottish and Irish landscapes — with steep sides and usually a stream or small river at the bottom.

Register

Neutral in geographical and landscape contexts. Strongly associated with Scottish and Irish Highland landscape — using glen elsewhere can sound slightly precious or literary. Common in outdoor and travel writing.