The Viking name for 'dark' is myrkr. This term originates from Old Norse, the language spoken by the Norse people during the Viking Age.
Understanding myrkr
The Old Norse word myrkr is a versatile term that functioned both as an adjective and a noun, encompassing various aspects of the concept of 'dark'.
- As an adjective, myrkr means dark or murky, describing a state or quality of lacking light.
- As a noun, myrkr refers to darkness itself, the absence of light.
Contextual Usage of myrkr
The application of myrkr is evident in various Old Norse phrases, showcasing its flexibility in describing different scenarios related to dimness or the absence of light.
| Old Norse Phrase | Meaning (English) | Type of Usage |
|---|---|---|
| um kveldit, er myrkt var | in the evening, when it was dark | Adjective (descriptive) |
| myrkt var af nótt | the night was dark | Adjective (descriptive) |
| gørði myrkt | it grew dark | Adjective (eventual) |
| myrkr var mikit | there was great darkness | Noun (state of being) |
This dual functionality allowed myrkr to be a comprehensive term, effectively capturing both the descriptive quality of being dark and the substantive concept of darkness in the Old Norse language.
