rune etymology

Etymology and Origin of "Rune":

The word "rune" is derived from the Proto-Germanic word rūnō, which meant "secret" or "whisper." This term has cognates in other Indo-European languages, such as Latin runa ("mystery, secret") and Greek rhŷnos ("secret knowledge").

Meaning of "Rune":

• Originally: "Secret" or "whisper" (based on its Proto-Germanic etymology).
• In Germanic mythology: A symbol or sign inscribed on stones, wood, or metal that was believed to have magical or divine properties.
• In modern usage: A character or symbol from any of various ancient Germanic alphabets, including the Elder Futhark and Younger Futhark. These alphabets were used for writing, divination, and magical purposes.

Specific Meanings of Individual Runes:

Each rune in the Germanic alphabets has a unique name, shape, and meaning. For example:

• Fehu (ᚠ): Wealth, cattle
• Uruz (ᚢ): Strength, wild ox
• Thurisaz (ᚦ): Thorn, danger
• Ansuz (ᚨ): God, communication
• Raidho (ᚱ): Journey, riding
• Kenaz (ᚲ): Torch, knowledge
• Gebo (ᚷ): Gift, partnership
• Wunjo (ᚹ): Joy, harmony

Usage of Runes:

Runes were used for a variety of purposes in Germanic cultures:

• Writing and communication: As an alphabet for writing messages, poems, and laws.
• Divination and fortune-telling: Interpreting the meanings of runes cast or drawn from a bag.
• Magic and ritual: Inscribing runes on talismans, amulets, and weapons to bring good luck, protection, or power.
• Decoration and ornament: Carving runes on objects as decorative elements.

rune relate terms

• Runnymede

  Etymology and Meaning of Runnymede The name Runnymede is derived from Old English and c

• rune

  Etymology and Origin of Rune The word rune is derived from the Proto Germanic word r

• island

  Etymology The word island comes from the Old English word iland which is derived fr

• mead

  Etymology The word mead originates from the Old English word medu or meduwa which

• runic

  Etymology The word rune comes from the Proto Germanic word rūnō which is related to

• rune

  Etymology and Origin of Rune The word rune is derived from the Proto Germanic word r

• birch

  Etymology The word birch comes from the Old English word beorc or beorce which is

• character

  Character Etymology Meaning and Origin Etymology The word character derives from th

• north

  Etymology Proto Germanic norþaz Old English norþ Middle English north Meaning a

• thorn

  Etymology The word thorn comes from the Old English word þorn which in turn comes f