Maypole

[ mey-pohl ]

noun

, (often lowercase)

1. a tall pole, decorated with flowers and ribbons, around which people dance or engage in sports during May Day celebrations.

maypole

/ ˈmeɪˌpəʊl /

noun

1. a tall pole fixed upright in an open space during May-Day celebrations, around which people dance holding streamers attached at its head

Word History and Origins

Origin of Maypole¹

First recorded in 1545–55; May + pole ¹

Example Sentences

Hobby horses gaily prancing, Bats and Bowls and Maypole dancing.

From Project Gutenberg

Our Maypole has an interesting history and is probably the last survival of an ancient cult.

From Project Gutenberg

We purchased a shoat from the matron of that domicile, who made us a stew that would have done credit to the Maypole Inn.

From Project Gutenberg

The spot where the stone cross once stood had afterwards a Maypole erected on it, which many now living can well remember.

From Project Gutenberg

Ovington is a village with a maypole in the middle of its green—a maypole with tattered garlands still clinging to its iron crown.

From Project Gutenberg