Vikings: meaning, definitions and examples
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Vikings
[ ˈvaɪkɪŋz ]
historical context
Vikings were Norse seafarers from Scandinavia, primarily Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, who lived during the late eighth to early eleventh centuries. They are known for their exploration, trade, and raids across Europe, as well as their distinct shipbuilding skills. Viking culture significantly influenced medieval Europe, bringing trade routes and settlement patterns that shaped the future of the continent.
Synonyms
Danes, Norsemen, Scandinavians
Examples of usage
- The Vikings invaded England in the 9th century.
- Many Vikings settled in Greenland and Iceland.
- The Viking Longship was crucial for their exploration.
- Vikings are often depicted in modern media as fierce warriors.
Etymology
The term 'Viking' derives from the Old Norse word 'vikingr', which means 'to go on an expedition'. The Vikings were known not only for their raids but also for their trading expeditions that connected various cultures across Europe and beyond. While often depicted as ruthless warriors in popular culture, they were also skilled craftsmen, farmers, and experienced sailors. Their period, referred to as the Viking Age, showcases a complex society that established settlements in places like modern-day England, Ireland, Russia, and even as far as North America. The legacy of the Vikings is still evident today in the languages, traditions, and place names found throughout the regions they once inhabited.