inn

¹

[ in ]

noun

1. a commercial establishment that provides lodging, food, etc., for the public, especially travelers; small hotel.

   Synonyms: hostelry

2. a tavern.
3. (initial capital letter) British.
   1. any of several buildings in London formerly used as places of residence for students, especially law students. Compare Inns of Court.
   2. a legal society occupying such a building.

Inn

²

[ in ]

noun

1. a river in central Europe, flowing from S Switzerland through Austria and Germany into the Danube. 320 miles (515 km) long.

Inn

¹

/ ɪn /

noun

1. a river in central Europe, rising in Switzerland in Graubünden and flowing northeast through Austria and Bavaria to join the River Danube at Passau: forms part of the border between Austria and Germany. Length: 514 km (319 miles)

inn

²

/ ɪn /

noun

1. a pub or small hotel providing food and accommodation
2. (formerly, in England) a college or hall of residence for students, esp of law, now only in the names of such institutions as the Inns of Court

Other Words From

• innless adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of inn¹

First recorded before 1000; Middle English, Old English in(n) “house”; akin to Old Norse inni (adverb) “within, in the house”

Word History and Origins

Origin of inn¹

Old English; compare Old Norse inni inn, house, place of refuge

Synonym Study

See hotel.

Example Sentences

They could be in pubs, taverns, inns or coffee houses.

From BBC

Planning documents showed the old coaching inn dated back to at least 1500, offering a convenient place of rest for those travelling between London, Colchester and further afield in Suffolk and Norfolk.

From BBC

The group alternates between pubs in Sheffield and Rotherham to account for the geographical spread of the friendship group, but they have tried to remain loyal to their inns of choice.

From BBC

While an inn isn’t as thrifty as a $25-a-night campsite, it sure is more comfortable.

From Los Angeles Times

When he follows Joan up the inn’s steep staircase, climbing with predatory stealth, Veronica remains below, shattered.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• hostel
• hotel
• lodge
• motel
• resort
• saloon
• tavern