flagon
UK[ˈflæɡən]US[ˈflæɡən]
n
a large container, typically made of metal or pottery, with a handle and spout, used for holding wine or other alcoholic drinks.
n
the amount of liquid held in such a container.
Etymology
the word 'flagon' entered english in the late 15th century from middle french 'flacon', meaning a small bottle or flask. the french term itself derives from late latin 'flascōnem', the accusative form of 'flasco', meaning a bottle or container. this latin word is believed to be of germanic origin, likely related to old english 'flasce' and old high german 'flaska', which are the ancestors of the modern english word 'flask'. the semantic journey is straightforward, tracing from a general germanic term for a bottle to a more specific term for a large, handled drinking vessel, often for communal use.
Analysis
the word 'flagon' is a simplex loanword. it does not contain separable morphemes in modern english spelling.
Examples
the tavern keeper brought out a full flagon of ale for the weary travelers.
the silver flagon was passed around the table during the feast.
he ordered a flagon of the house wine to share with his friends.