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virgate

noun
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vir·​gate | \ ˈvər-ˌgāt How to pronounce virgate (audio) \

Definition of virgate

 (Entry 1 of 2)

: an old English unit of land area usually understood as equaling one quarter of a hide (thirty acres)

virgate

adjective

Definition of virgate (Entry 2 of 2)

: shaped like a rod or wand a virgate one-flowered branch

First Known Use of virgate

Noun

1655, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1821, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for virgate

Noun

Medieval Latin virgata, from virga, a land measure, from Latin, rod

Adjective

New Latin virgatus, from Latin, made of twigs, from virga

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The first known use of virgate was in 1655

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Cite this Entry

“Virgate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/virgate. Accessed 19 Jun. 2021.

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