Northumbrian

1 of 2

adjective

North·​um·​bri·​an nȯr-ˈthəm-brē-ən 

1

: of, relating to, or characteristic of ancient Northumbria, its people, or its language

2

: of, relating to, or characteristic of Northumberland, its people, or its language

Northumbrian

2 of 2

noun

1

: a native or inhabitant of ancient Northumbria

2

: a native or inhabitant of Northumberland

3

a

: the Old English dialect of Northumbria

b

: the Modern English dialect of Northumberland

Examples of Northumbrian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Newcastle has always been shaped by music—Northumbrian folk song, metal, gabber, and even pivotal jazz clubs. — Archie Forde, Pitchfork, 1 May 2026

The shift in power shift weakened the Northumbrian kingdom, and Eardwulf was forced to live out his days in (relative) isolation. — Isis Davis-Marks, Smithsonian Magazine, 16 July 2021

Noun

The menu includes a half-roasted lemon and thyme Baby Chicken, 32 day aged Northumbrian Beef Rump and Three Root vegetable and chestnut Wellington. — Joanne Shurvell, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2025

In August, 57 swimmers fell ill after competing in the World Triathlon Championships in Sunderland, with some blaming the state of the water — a claim disputed by Northumbrian Water. — Matt Woosnam, The Athletic, 4 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1602, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1531, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for Northumbrian

• umbrian