FOREST, in geography, a huge wood; or, a large extent of ground covered with trees. The word is formed of the Latin foresta, which first occurs in the capitulars of Charlemagne, and which itself is derived from the German frost, signifying the same thing. Spelman derives it from the Latin foris restat, by reason forests are out of towns. Others derive foresta from feris, q. d. Foresta, quod sit tuta statio ferarum, as being a safe station or abode for wild beasts.
The Caledonian and Hercynian forests are famous in history. The first was a celebrated retreat of the ancient Picts and Scots: The latter anciently occupied
Forest. the greatest part of Europe; particularly Germany, Poland, Hungary, &c. In Cæsar's time it extended from the borders of Alsatia and Switzerland to Transylvania; and was computed 60 days journey long, and 9 broad: some parts or cantons thereof are still remaining.
The ancients adored forests, and imagined a great part of their gods to reside therein: temples were frequently built in the thickest forests; the gloom and silence whereof naturally inspire sentiments of devotion, and turns mens thoughts within themselves.
For the like reason, the ancient Druids made forests the place of their residence, performed their sacrifices, instructed their youth, and gave laws therein.