inn
UK: ɪn | US: ɪn
n. a small establishment providing lodging, food, and drink, typically for travelers
n. (historical) a lodging house for students, especially in London (e.g., "Inns of Court")
The word "inn" traces back to Old English inn, meaning "dwelling, lodging, house," derived from Proto-Germanic inną ("inside, within"). It reflects the concept of a sheltered space for rest, emphasizing its function as a place to stay. The reduplicated -n may have served as a diminutive or emphatic suffix in early Germanic languages. Over time, "inn" narrowed to specifically denote establishments offering hospitality to travelers, distinct from private homes.
We stopped at a cozy inn for the night during our road trip.
The historic inn has been serving travelers since the 18th century.
Law students in London often reside near the Inns of Court.
The village inn was famous for its homemade ale.
They converted the old farmhouse into a charming countryside inn.