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burn ((n.))
DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
Entry from the DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
This entry may contain outdated or offensive information, terms, and examples.
1n.
in clearing land, the process of piling and setting fire to the brush (def. 1).
See: brush ((n.))(def. 1)
Quotations
1792
[The way of clearing land in this country is cutting down all the small wood, pile it and set it on fire.]
1832
By these means, in the Canadian phrase, you "get a good burn," upon which the excellence of your crop mainly depends. That part of the field which is not burned black, never produces so good wheat, as that which is.
1955
After the burn, the black ash on the ground added important elements to the coming new growth.
2n.
a forest fire.
Quotations
1834
A great burn [occurred], during which the wind rose so high as to endanger my shanty and adjoining buildings.
1957
The total estimated burn figure is very difficult to arrive at with any accuracy because of the vast areas involved and the infrequency of travel over most parts.
3n.
an area that has been burnt out by a forest fire, characterized by charred stumps and rampikes.
Quotations
1931
Huge burns, of ancient and unknown origin, lie like scars, across the landscape.
1963
The rolling hills along the Kootenay . . . are parklike with their copses of fir, tamarack, poplar and willow . . . left standing in old log slashes or burns.