yon

Everyday

1. (old-fashioned or dialect) That, or those, over there: "yon hill" means "that hill over there". tree →
2. (dialect, adverb) Yonder; over there. tree →

In the lessons

It is found in old poems, the Bible (older translations), fairy tales and in dialects of Scotland and the north of England. It makes language sound old or rural. "Hither and yon" means "here and there, in all directions". Related: "yonder" (over there), "beyond".

Examples

• "Who lives in yon castle?" asked the traveller. tree →
• The shepherd pointed to yon hill. tree →
• "Fetch me yon bucket, lad," said the old farmer. tree →
• Leaves blew hither and yon in the wind. tree →
• In the poem, the knight rode towards yon dark tower. tree →
• Grandad from Yorkshire still says "yon" when he means "that". tree →
• "Why there; something is shining in yon corner!" tree →

Note

Not used in modern standard English; in your own writing it will sound old-fashioned or like a dialect, which can be good for a character's voice. Do not confuse with "yawn" or with "yen" (Japanese money, or a strong wish).

In Jewish tradition

An old word meaning "that one over there."

Interpretation. The verses recall God appearing at Mount Sinai, where the Torah was given. Tradition holds that the mountain shook at that holy moment.

Examples

• The mountains quaked at the presence of the LORD, even yon Sinai at the presence of the LORD, the God of Israel. (Prophets JDG.5.5, JPS 1917) tree →
• The earth trembled, the heavens also dropped at the presence of God; even yon Sinai trembled at the presence of God, the God of Israel. (Writings PSA.68.9, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Not used in modern standard English; in your own writing it will sound old-fashioned or like a dialect, which can be good for a character's voice. Do not confuse with "yawn" or with "yen" (Japanese money, or a strong wish).