Avon

/ay"veuhn, av"euhn/ for 1-4; /ay"von/ for 5, n.

1. a river in central England, flowing SE past Stratford-on-Avon to the Severn. 96 mi. (155 km) long.

2. a river in S England, flowing W to the mouth of the Severn. ab. 75 mi. (120 km) long.

3. a river in S England, flowing S to the English Channel. ab. 60 mi. (100 km) long.

4. a county in SW England, 919,600; 520 sq. mi. (1346 sq. km.)

5. a town in N Connecticut. 11,201.

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I

Former administrative county, southwestern England.

Bordering the River Severn and the Bristol Channel, it was created in the 1974 government reorganization; its capital was Bristol. In 1996 the county was divided administratively into the following unitary authorities: Bath and North East Somerset, the city of Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire. During the Roman era, major roads were built, and Bath became known for its medicinal waters. From the 7th century, Avon was incorporated into the kingdom of Wessex. In the 18th century, Bristol was an important seaport, and Bath again became fashionable. The region has a diversified economy, including agriculture and manufacturing; tourism is also important.

II

(as used in expressions)

Avon River

Lower Avon

Upper Avon

Eden Robert Anthony 1st earl of Avon

Stratford upon Avon

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▪ former county, England, United Kingdom

      region and former administrative county, southwestern England, bordering the Severn estuary and the Bristol Channel. The region comprises parts of the historic counties of Gloucestershire and Somerset to the north and south, respectively. It is divided administratively into the following unitary authorities: Bath and North East Somerset, the city of Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire.

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