bourne

noun

ˈbȯrn How to pronounce bourne (audio) ˈbu̇rn How to pronounce bourne (audio)
variants or less commonly bourn
Synonyms of bournenext
1
: boundary, limit
2
: goal, destination

Synonyms of bourne

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Examples of bourne in a Sentence

still searching for the bourne that would give his life meaning
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ferndale's top law enforcement officer said the city may have bourne the brunt of brutal violence but for the swift actions of federal agents to thwart what prosecutors call a terrorism plot. — Dave Boucher, Freep.com, 3 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle French bourne, from Old French bodne — more at bound entry 6

First Known Use

1523, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of bourne was in 1523

Rhymes for bourne

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Browse Nearby Words

bourn
bourne
Bournemouth
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Cite this Entry

“Bourne.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bourne. Accessed 31 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

bourne

noun
variants also bourn
ˈbōrn, 
ˈbȯrn, 
ˈbu̇(ə)rn
1
: boundary, limit
2
: goal sense 2, destination

More from Merriam-Webster on bourne

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about bourne

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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