Leg"end (?), n. [OE. legende, OF. legende, F. l'egende, LL. legenda, fr. L. legendus to be read, fr. legere to read, gather; akin to Gr. to gather, speak. Cf. Collect, Dialogue, Lesson, Logic.]
1.
That which is appointed to be read; especially, a chronicle or register of the lives of saints, formerly read at matins, and in the refectories of religious houses.
2.
A story respecting saints; especially, one of a marvelous nature.
Addison.
3.
Any wonderful story coming down from the past, but not verifiable by historical record; a myth; a fable.
And in this legend all that glorious deed.
Read, whilst you arm you.
Fairfax.
4.
An inscription, motto, or title, esp. one surrounding the field in a medal or coin, or placed upon an heraldic shield or beneath an engraving or illustration.
Golden legend. See under Golden.
© Webster 1913.
Leg"end, v. t.
To tell or narrate, as a legend.
Bp. Hall.
© Webster 1913.