Lě'gend or Lěg'end1, n.
(Synop., § 130), n. [Fr. légende, Pr. & O. Sp. legenda, It. leggenda, Pg. lenda, from L. Lat. legenda, a book containing the acts of the saints, so called because they were to be read in the church on certain days, from Lat. legendus, to be read, from legere, to read.]
Sense 1. That which is appointed to be read; especially, a chronicle or register of the lives of saints, formerly read at matins, and at the refectories of religious houses.
Sense 2. A story respecting saints; especially, one of a marvelous nature.
There are in Rome two sets of antiquities—the Christian and the heathen; the former, though of a fresher date, are so embroiled with fable and legend, that one receives but little satisfaction. Addison.
Sense 3. Hence, any remarkable story handed down from early times; or, less exactly, any story or narrative.
And in this legend all that glorious deed Read, whilst you arm. Fairfax.
Sense 4. An inscription or motto, as that placed on a shield or coat of arms; or that which surrounds the field in a medal.