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Definition of "well-dressing" [well-dressing]

  • The decoration of wells and springs with flowers, etc., accompanied by religious observances, practised at set times in England (especially at Tissington, in Derbyshire, on Ascension day) and elsewhere. Also called well-flowering. (noun)

The Century Dictionary (Public Domain)

Use "well-dressing" in a sentence
  • "Things like the well-dressing ceremonies in the Peak look so much like pre-Christian water deity rituals, for example."
  • "The origin of well-dressing is unknown, but it is certainly of remote antiquity, probably dating back to pagan times."
  • "But the origin of well-dressing must have been of much greater antiquity: the custom no doubt had its beginnings as an expression of praise to God from whom all blessings flow."