How to Say “Tired” in Old English

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mēþe
The Old English word for tired is mēþe.
This adjective describes a person or being that is in need of rest or sleep.
Meaning: in need of rest or sleep (adj)

Did you know?

  • The Old English adjective mēþe is related to the German word müde, which still means 'tired' today.
  • While mēþe focused on the state of the body, wērig often appeared in contexts of enduring long periods of time, such as the slow passing of winter.
  • The concept of being 'weary' in Old English often merged the idea of physical exhaustion with a sense of spiritual or mental heaviness.

Examples in context

  • Hē is swīðe mēþe.
    He is very tired.

Example conversation

Two siblings are talking after a long day of travel.

  1. Æthelflæd

    Eart þū mēþe, Æthelstan?
    Are you tired, Æthelstan?
  2. Æthelstan

    Ġē, ic eom swīðe mēþe.
    Yes, I am very tired.
  3. Æthelflæd

    Gā we nū tō bedde.
    Let us go to bed now.
  4. Æthelstan

    Ġē, gā we.
    Yes, let's go.

Sources

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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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