ic eom gōd
The phrase "I am good" in Old English is translated as ic eom gōd.
This phrase is used to describe one's own moral character or general well-being.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the pronoun ic (I), the verb eom (am) and the adjective gōd (good).
How does it change in a sentence?
In this phrase, ic means "I", eom means "am" and gōd means "good". Note that the word wel can also mean "well/good".
Did you know?
- The word eom is related to the Sanskrit word ásmi, demonstrating that the way an Anglo-Saxon said 'I am' follows a pattern seen in ancient India.
- Old English used a system of strong and weak adjectives, meaning gōd could change its ending depending on whether a word such as 'the' or 'my' came before it.
- In Old English, gōd did not just mean morally virtuous, but could describe something that was simply useful, fit for purpose or high quality.
Examples in context
- Nū ic eom gōd and blīðe.Now I am good and happy.
Example conversation
Two friends meet on a village path.
- EadricHū gæst þū, Æthelflæd?How are you, Æthelflæd?
- ÆthelflædIc eom gōd, Eadric.I am good, Eadric.
- EadricÞæt is gōd tō gehȳranne.That is good to hear.
- ÆthelflædIc þancie þē.Thank you.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries eom, ic, CC BY-SA 4.0.
