friþ
/friθ/neuter
The English word 'peace' is translated into Old English as friþ. Wiktionary also lists griþ.
Meaning: state of being free from war (noun)
Ways to say it
| Old English | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| friþ | /friθ/ | neuter |
| griþ | /ɡriθ/ | neuter |
friþ is a neuter noun meaning a state of being free from war.
Which one should you use?
While friþ refers to a general state of peace, the form griþ specifically refers to a legal truce or the protection granted to a person under a specific agreement.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun friþ is related to the verb friþian, which means to grant peace or to protect.
How do you pronounce it?
/friθ/
Did you know?
- The root of friþ comes from a Proto-Indo-European word meaning 'beloved' or 'happy'.
- The word griþ was borrowed from Old Norse during the Viking Age, when it was used for a truce or sanctuary.
Examples in context
- Friþ æt hāme onginþ.Peace starts at home.This sentence shows the use of friþ in the context of starting peace at home.Tatoeba #13903084 by rul, translation #8462040 by shekitten
- Ic bēo se heretoga þe friþ bringþ.I will be the peace president.This sentence demonstrates the use of friþ in a role describing someone who brings peace.Tatoeba #13893756 by rul, translation #13544585 by rul
- Ƿile ūser land nān-ƿiht būtan friþ.Our country wants nothing but peace.This sentence illustrates the use of friþ when expressing a desire for nothing but peace for a country.Tatoeba #1350143 by SuleimanArkhyz, translation #868543 by LittleBoy
- 3 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two leaders discuss the end of a conflict.
- GodricHēr is se friþ betwēone ūsum.Here is the peace between us.
- WulfrunIċ wille þone friþ healden.I will keep the peace.
- GodricIċ lufie friþ swīðe.I love peace very much.
- WulfrunIċ hit lufie ēac.I love it too.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “peace” translations and entries friþ, griþ, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries friþ, griþ, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
