fela
/ˈfe.lɑ/
The English phrase "a lot" can be translated into Old English as fela, which functions as an adverb meaning "very much".
Meaning: very much (adv)
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /ˈfe.lɑ/. It has two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable.
Did you know?
- The concept of 'a lot' in Old English shares a common ancestor with the Ancient Greek word πολύς, which is the root of the English word 'poly' used in 'polygon'.
- In Old English poetry, words like fela were often used in pairs or repetitions to create a rhythmic intensity called 'parallelism'.
- Although it means 'a lot', fela is not the ancestor of the modern English word 'few', despite the similar starting sound.
Examples in context
- Wē þorfton fela.We needed a lot.
Example conversation
Two nobles discuss their affection for their home.
- ÆthelflædIc lufie þis land swīþe.I love this land very much.
- OsricAnd ic hit ēac lufie.And I also love it.
- ÆthelflædLufast þū hit swīþe?Do you love it a lot?
- OsricĠēa, ic hit lufie.Yes, I love it.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry fela, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries fela, CC BY-SA 4.0.
