legen

n. [ OE. legende, OF. legende, F. légende, LL. legenda, fr. L. legendus to be read, fr. legere to read, gather; akin to Gr. le`gein to gather, speak. Cf. Collect, Dialogue, Lesson, Logic. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. A story respecting saints; especially, one of a marvelous nature. Addison. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Any wonderful story coming down from the past, but not verifiable by historical record; a myth; a fable. [ 1913 Webster ]

And in this legend all that glorious deed
Read, whilst you arm you. Fairfax. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

Golden legend. See under Golden. [ 1913 Webster ]