How to Say “East” in Old English

By Erik Harrison • Updated October 3, 2026

ēast

The English phrase 'east' is translated into Old English as ēast.

ēast is used as a noun to refer to the compass point east.

Meaning: compass point (noun)

Did you know?

In some Old English manuscripts, ēast appears in contexts referring to the 'East' as a spiritual or paradisiacal direction, often linked to the Garden of Eden.
In Old English, the word ēast shares its linguistic roots with the concept of 'dawn', as the direction was defined by the rising sun.
The Old English ēast is a direct ancestor to our modern 'east', meaning the word has remained virtually unchanged in sound and meaning for over a millennium.

Example conversation

Two people are discussing the direction of their travel.

Godric

Hwǣr is þæt land?
Where is the land?
Wulfrun

Hit is be ēastan, Godric.
It is in the east, Godric.
Godric

Is hit feorr?
Is it far?
Wulfrun

Nese, hit is nēah.
No, it is near.

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About The Author

Erik Harrison

'Eow greetan geþyldiga Mannas,' I'm Erik, an ardent admirer of Old English. Within me, ondowersæcnesse sprouts from a fascination with history and a passion for linguistic quirks. I find solace in uncovering the tapestry of words 'from yesteryears and yonder.' You'll often find me jotting down phrases in this ancient tongue or indulging my love for historical fiction. My posts are hearty tributes to our language's forgotten strands - an endeavored celebration of the past met with the present. 'Þæs ofereode,' come and join me on a journey through the words that once were.

Erik HarrisonHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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