Emily Dickinson Lexicon

LE'GEND, n. [It. leggenda; L. legenda, from lego, to read; originally, in the Romish church, a book of service or lessons to be read in worship.]

1. A chronicle or register of the lives of saints, formerly read at matins and at the refectories of religious houses. Hence,
2. An idle or ridiculous story told respecting saints. – Encyc.
3. Any memorial or relation. – Johnson.
4. An incredible, unauthentic narrative. – Blackmore.
5. An inscription, particularly on medals and on coins. – Addison.