How to Say “Goodbye” in Old English

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Wes hāl
The English phrase 'goodbye' is expressed in Old English as Wes hāl.
This expression is used as a way to say farewell.
Meaning: farewell (intj)

What does it mean word for word?

The phrase Wes hāl literally means 'Be whole' or 'Be healthy'.

How does it change in a sentence?

The form Wes hāl is singular. If you are addressing more than one person, you should use the plural form Wesað hāle.

Did you know?

  • The adjective hāl shares the same root as the word 'holy' because both concepts originally referred to being sound and undamaged.
  • While Wes hāl is used for farewells it could also function as a greeting similar to 'hello' because it is essentially a wish for the other person's well-being.
  • The phrase functions as an imperative, meaning you are literally commanding the person to 'Be healthy'.

Examples in context

  • Wes hāl.
    Farewell.
  • Wes hāl, hlāford.
    Farewell, lord.

Example conversation

Two siblings are parting ways after a long journey.

  1. Æthelstan

    Iċ gā nū. Wes hāl, Æthelflæd.
    I am leaving now. Farewell, Æthelflæd.
  2. Æthelflæd

    And þū wes hāl, Æthelstan.
    And you farewell, Æthelstan.
  3. Æthelstan

    Gōdne weg!
    Good journey!
  4. Æthelflæd

    God þē gehealde!
    God keep you!
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Leigh Randy
Leigh RandyHelp 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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