Chinnell Lane
Early-attested site in the Parish of Wendens Ambo
Historical Forms
- Chelvewell 1387 Walden
- Chynwelle 1427 MinAcct
- Chenewell 1438 Rental
Etymology
Chinnell Lane (6″) is Chelvewell 1387Walden , Chynwelle 1427MinAcct , Chenewell 1438Rental . OE cealfa-wielle , 'calves' stream,' v. calf , wielle . There can be no doubt about the identification, as the place is mentioned under Wenden and in the neighbourhood of Clanver End and Westbury. This must have been the name of the stream flowing through Wenden from Clanver End Bridge to Uttlesford Bridge. The v , as often, > w , giving Chelwewell > Chelwell > Chellell . Then, through dissimilation, the first l > n . Cf. the local [winigl] for Willingale. The raising of e to i before l or n is common. v. Introd. xxxvii–viii.