Early English

adjective

1. pertaining to the first style of Gothic architecture in England, ending in the latter half of the 13th century, characterized by the use of lancet arches, plate tracery, and narrow openings.

Early English

noun

1. a style of architecture used in England in the 12th and 13th centuries, characterized by lancet arches, narrow openings, and plate tracery

Word History and Origins

Origin of Early English¹

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

The arches escaped, and are splendid specimens of Early English, "of the Pointed style in all the purity of its first period."

From Project Gutenberg

These piers support the Early English arches, with dog-tooth ornament large in the interior, small in the exterior.

From Project Gutenberg

It is of Early English date; and before 1292 was situated within the choir.

From Project Gutenberg

The decorations of the capitals of the Early English columns are not so elaborate as those in the north choir aisle.

From Project Gutenberg

Chancel and south transept are Early English, and the south doorway very excellent Norman.

From Project Gutenberg