lufu
/ˈlu.fu/feminine
The English word "love" translates to lufu in Old English.
lufu is a noun meaning strong affection. Related to this concept is the verb lufian, which can mean to be strongly inclined towards doing something (like or adore) or to care about and wish good for someone.
Meaning: strong affection (noun)
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb lufian (to love) has several forms: the infinitive is lufian, the third-person singular present indicative is lufaþ and the past tense is lufode. The noun lufu is feminine.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈlu.fu/ (stressed on the first of two syllables)
Did you know?
- The letter þ in the phrase Ic þé lufie is called 'thorn' and represents the 'th' sound in 'the'.
- The word lufu is a cognate of the Old High German luba and the Gothic lubō.
- In Old English, the concept of 'love' was not limited to romantic passion but was frequently used to describe the deep, spiritual affection one feels for God.
Examples in context
- Sēo sōðe lufu nǣfre ne ātēoraþ.True love never fails.This sentence uses lufu.
- Lufu biþ lufu.Love is love.Tatoeba #14051972 by rul, translation #3018959 by rul
Example conversation
Osric and Eadgyth are talking about their friendship.
- OsricMīn lufu tō þē is strang.My love for you is strong.
- EadgythAnd mīn lufu tō þē ēac.And my love for you also.
- OsricSēo lufu is gōd.The love is good.
- EadgythĠēa, hit is sōþ.Yes, it is true.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “love” translations and entries lufu, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries lufu, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0, Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
