Poland. From the Slavonic poln, “a country of plains.” Its original settlers were a tribe called the Polnali, “men of the plains.” When this country was an independent kingdom it bore the name of “Polska,” and its people “Polacks.” Shakespeare mentions “the sledded Polacks on the ice” in Hamlet Act i. sc. i.
Poland Street. From the Polish refugees who congregated in it soon after this street was built.
Police. The appropriate designation of civil guardians of the peace, from the Greek polis, city.
Polka. Originally a Bohemian dance, so called from the native word pulka, a half, on account of the half step peculiar to it.
Polynesia. Greek for “many islands.”
Polytechnic. An institute or academy of the Arts, so called from the Greek polys, many, and techne, art.
Pompeii. So called by the Romans in honour of Pompeius Magnus, or Pompey the Great.
Pomeranian. A valuable breed of dog from Pomerania in Prussia.
Pomeroy. From pomme roi; expresses the French for “King’s Apple.”
Pommery. After Madame Pommery, mother of the Duchess de Polignac, and owner of the estate near Rheims where this fine brand of champagne is produced.