Thelnetham and Whelnetham in Suffolk: early Christian sites?

Keith Briggs

Abstract

This paper examines the hypothesis that the names Thelnetham and Whelnetham have a common origin, with the first element starting Thw-. The two different phonological developments of this initial cluster exhibited in the place-names are shown to have several parallels. An even more speculative final section offers a possible etymon in a recorded term for a baptismal tank.

Journal of the English Place-Name Society 52 (2020): 76–84.

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