Kenning: meaning, definitions and examples
๐
kenning
[ หkษnษชล ]
literary term
A kenning is a traditional figurative expression used in Old English and Old Norse poetry. It typically consists of a compound of two words that describes something metaphorically, often in a poetic or descriptive manner.
Synonyms
compound expression, descriptive phrase, metaphor
Examples of usage
- The 'whale-road' refers to the sea.
- A 'sword-sleep' is another term for death.
- In poetry, the 'sky-candle' represents the sun.
Translations
Translations of the word "kenning" in other languages:
๐ต๐น kenning
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเฅเคจเคฟเคเค
๐ฉ๐ช Kenning
๐ฎ๐ฉ kenning
๐บ๐ฆ ะบะตะฝะฝัะฝะณ
๐ต๐ฑ kenning
๐ฏ๐ต ใฑใใณใฐ
๐ซ๐ท kenning
๐ช๐ธ kenning
๐น๐ท kenning
๐ฐ๐ท ์ผ๋
๐ธ๐ฆ ููููุบ
๐จ๐ฟ kenning
๐ธ๐ฐ kenning
๐จ๐ณ ่ฏๅฎ
๐ธ๐ฎ kenning
๐ฎ๐ธ kenning
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะบะตะฝะฝะธะฝะณ
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ kenning
๐ฒ๐ฝ kenning
Etymology
The word 'kenning' originates from Old Norse 'kenningr' which is derived from 'kenna', meaning 'to know' or 'to teach'. Kennings were widely used in Viking poetry as a way to create vivid images and deeper meanings, often reflecting the culture and environment of the Norse people. They became a notable feature of Old English literature as well, with poets like Beowulf's author employing them to add richness to their narratives. They often consist of a two-word metaphor that encapsulates a larger idea, resulting in a unique linguistic play that invites readers to think critically about the language and its meanings. As a result, kennings have not only held literary significance but also cultural importance in understanding the mindset of the societies that utilized them.