fell

fell · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    Simple past tense of fall.

  2. 2.

    To cut down a tree.

  3. 3.

    To knock someone down.

  4. 4.

    A stretch of high moorland (chiefly British).

  5. 5.

    Fierce, cruel, or deadly.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    one fell swoop — A single swift action.
  • •
    fell a tree — To cut down a tree.

Related words

Antonyms: erect, raise
See also: cut, fall, fallen, knock
Synonyms: cut down, knock down, strike down

Etymology

As past tense: from Old English feallan ("to fall"). As "cut down": from Old English fellan ("to fell, strike down"). As moorland: from Old Norse fell, fjall ("mountain"). As adjective: from Old French fel ("cruel").