Phrases and Names, Their Origins and Meanings

by Trench H. Johnson

Australasia. Southern Asia.

Australia. From the Latin Australis, southern.

Austria. From Oesterreich, or Eastern Empire, as distinguished from the Western Empire founded by Charlemagne.

Autocar. The name first given to a motor car; incorrectly, however, since so far from being automatic such a one, like all mechanically propelled vehicles, requires a guiding intelligence.

Autun. The Augustodunum, or Town of Augustus, of the Romans.

Auvergne. From the Auverni, who overran it in the time of the Cæsars.

Avoca. Gaelic for “the meeting of the waters.”

Ave Maria Lane. Where the monks of old chanted the “Ave Maria” on their way to St Paul’s. See “[Amen Corner].”

Avon. From Arfon, the Celtic for river or stream, which enters into many place-names.

Axminster. The monastery town on the Axe.