Cairn (?), n. [Gael. carn, gen. cairn, a heap: cf. Ir. & W. carn.]
1.
A rounded or conical heap of stones erected by early inhabitants of the British Isles, apparently as a sepulchral monument.
Now here let us place the gray stone of her cairn.
Campbell.
2.
A pile of stones heaped up as a landmark, or to arrest attention, as in surveying, or in leaving traces of an exploring party, etc.
C. Kingsley. Kane.
© Webster 1913.