DOWNS, a bank or elevation of sand, which the sea gathers and forms along its shores; and which serves it as a barrier. The word is formed from the French dune, of the Celtic dun, a "mountain." Charles de Vifch. in his Compend. Chronolog. Exerd. & Progress. Abbat. Clariss. B. Maria, de Dunis, says, Vallem reperit arenarum collibus (quos incolle Duxen vocant) undique cunctum.
DOWNS are particularly used for a famous road for ships.
ships, along the eastern coast of the county of Kent, from Dover to the North Foreland; where both the outward and homeward-bound ships frequently make some stay; and squadrons of men of war rendezvous in time of war.
It affords excellent anchorage; and is defended by the castles of Deal, Dover, and Sandwich.