DOLMEN

prehistoric monument usually consisting of several great stone slabs set edgewise in the earth to support a flat stone, which served as a roof. Designed as a burial chamber, the structure is typical of the Neolithic Period in Europe. The word is Celtic in origin but probably is not Breton. Dolmens, although found in covered form as far east as Japan, are mainly confined to Europe, the British Isles, and northern Africa.