Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—D

Dunstable

Bailey, as if he actually believed it, gives the etymology of this word Dun's stable; adding Duns or “Dunus was a robber in the reign of Henry I., who made it dangerous for travellers to pass that way.” (Dunes or duns tavell, our table —i.e. the table-land or flat of the hills.)

Downright Dunstable.
(See Downright.) Plain as the road to Dunstable, or, as Shakespeare says, “Plain as way to parish church.” The road leading to Dunstable is the confluence of many leading to London, but the play is on the word dunce.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Dunstan
Duns Scotus
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