Ye olde!

Do you know what the Old English word for love is? Not what you'd expect!

When people think about "Old English," they usually picture Shakespeare—all those thees, thous, and haths. But in reality, Shakespeare wrote in Early Modern English, which is practically current compared to the real thing. True Old English (or Anglo-Saxon) was spoken more than a millennium ago. It’s the language of Beowulf, filled with vivid, metaphorical words that describe the world in ways we’ve almost entirely forgotten. To understand the DNA of our modern vocabulary, we have to look back past the Renaissance to a time when the body could be described as a "bone-locker" and destiny was an inescapable force. Here are 10 Old English terms that reveal the epic, haunting roots of some of the words we use today.

In Old English, wyrd wasn't an adjective for something "strange"; it was a powerful noun representing the inescapable force of destiny. The Anglo-Saxons believed that while a person had some agency, the ultimate weaving of their life was handled by forces beyond their control. In that sense, wyrd could be translated as "the way things are meant to be." This is where Shakespeare got the "Weird Sisters" in Macbeth—they weren't just odd; they were the "Fates."

The Anglo-Saxons were masters of the "kenning," a compound expression with metaphorical meaning. Banloca literally translates to "bone-locker." It paints the human body not as a temple, but as a sturdy enclosure designed to keep your skeleton and spirit from wandering off. Interesting, don’t you think?

If you’ve ever woken up at 4:00 a.m. and immediately started stressing about every mistake you’ve made since the third grade, you’ve experienced úhtcearu. Úht refers to the hour just before dawn, and cearu means "care" or "sorrow." In other words, it describes pre-dawn anxiety or what we might jokingly call the "3:00 a.m. scaries."

This is a word you might find in an epic like Beowulf and would have been the ultimate Anglo-Saxon compliment. Beadu means "battle," and rof means "strong" or "valiant." It describes a very specific type of courage, the kind that flourishes only when the swords are drawn. To make it easier for modern readers, today it would translate into "battle-brave." Back then, it was the highest form of social currency.

This is the direct ancestor of our modern word "love." While it sounds cute and fluffy now, the Old English lufu carried a weight of duty, affection, or religious devotion (such as the love of God). It shared roots with the Old High German lubo, emphasizing a deep, enduring bond rather than just a fleeting crush. It really took centuries to evolve into the lighthearted "love" we use today, even for pizza or hobbies.

Another brilliant kenning, heofon-candel, is a very poetic compound word. Heofon means "heaven" and candel, "candle." The Anglo-Saxons saw the sun as a guiding light placed in the sky by a higher power. The phrase suggests that the sun is a gift, a light set out in the house of the world by a divine creator.

Did you ever have a dream that felt ominous or strangely significant? While we use the word "dream" today, the Anglo-Saxons had a more accurate term for those prophetic kinds of dreams, swefn. The word is related to other Germanic terms associated with sleep, such as Old English swefan ("to sleep"). Yet, to them, a swefn wasn't just a random brain-firing; it was often seen as a vision or an omen.

The simple way to translate this term is with the word "family." But back in the Middle Ages, a family wasn’t just your mom, dad, and siblings. In a tribal society, your maegth was everything. It refers to your clan, your bloodline, and your extended family. If you didn't have a maegth, you were essentially a ghost in the eyes of the law. The maegth was actually responsible for paying wergild (blood money) if you committed a crime.

Literally, andsaca translates as "one who speaks against," meaning someone who denies, accuses, or opposes. In other words, it referred to an enemy, an adversary. But it wasn't just someone you disliked; an andsaca was someone who stood in direct opposition to your truth or your faith. In Old English literature, andsaca could describe spiritual enemies as well as literal monsters. In Christian texts, it was even used as a term for Satan, the ultimate adversary.

Wuldor was a word used to express glory, splendor, or honor. It often referred to the radiance of God or the celebrated fame of a great king. In Old English, wuldor was the term for "celestial splendor." The word conveys more than simple praise—it suggests a brilliance of reputation or divine glory so powerful that it seems almost to shine.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Surviving in the wild: 10 tips for staying safe in nature

Image: Dominik Jirovský

Nature’s beauty is undeniable, and exploring the great outdoors is a great opportunity to connect with its many wonders. However, heading into the wild without proper preparation can easily become a recipe for disaster. Whether you’re gearing up for a week-long camping trip or a short hike, knowing the basics of survival is essential. And while most of it comes down to careful planning beforehand, here are 10 survival tips that will help keep you safe and ready for whatever challenges nature throws your way!

Image: Sylwia Bartyzel

Modern technology can be incredibly useful, but in the wild, it’s prone to failure due to battery drain or signal loss. Without outlets to recharge, your devices could leave you stranded. Always carry a physical map and compass as backups, and if you’re unfamiliar with them, take the time to learn basic map navigation—it’s a potentially life-saving skill!

But you don’t need to be an expert to benefit from an old-school paper map. By simply studying the area beforehand and memorizing prominent landmarks, you can vastly improve your orientation during the trip, and significantly reduce the chances of getting lost.

Image: Mathurin NAPOLY / matnapo

While this might seem obvious, it’s important to remember that a first aid kit is an essential part of your gear for any nature excursion. Even though you’re unlikely to need it, not bringing one exposes you to unnecessary risks. The last thing you want is to be caught without one during an emergency, far from help and medical services.

However, not just any first aid kit will do. Basic items like bandages, antiseptic, and tweezers are crucial, but you should also consider the most common injuries or issues you might encounter in the area you’re visiting and customize your kit accordingly. If you’re unsure of what to include or prefer a prepacked kit, opt for a more comprehensive option. Finally, knowing how to use every item in your kit ensures you’re prepared to handle emergencies, ensuring your safety and the safety of those around you.

Image: Kieran Osborn

While it might be tempting to drink directly from natural sources, doing so without purification can lead to serious illnesses such as cholera and hepatitis A. Even if the water appears clear and you're far from civilization, it could still harbor harmful bacteria and parasites, either from feces or decaying animals upstream.

If you must drink directly and lack a portable filtration system, choose water from the highest source you can find, and try to trace where it’s coming from. However, it’s best not to take any chances—boiling the water is a simple and effective way to make most sources safe to drink, preventing potential health risks during your trip.

Image: David Schultz

Never underestimate weather conditions when venturing into the wild. Enduring a storm at home, cozy under a sturdy roof, is one thing—but it’s a completely different situation when you’re camping in the woods or hiking in the mountains. In these environments, even a mild storm can become life-threatening if you’re unprepared.

Always check the weather forecast before heading out, but remember that weather is inherently unpredictable, and conditions can change rapidly. Strong winds or snowstorms in mountainous areas can be extremely dangerous, and even in wooded regions, you must watch for falling branches or lightning strikes. To stay safe, assess the expected temperature range and rainfall, and pack clothing and gear that can handle sudden weather changes. If the forecast predicts consistently bad weather during your trip, consider postponing it.

Image: Sylwia Bartyzel

Knowing how to start a fire is an essential survival skill in the wild. Whether for warmth, cooking, or signaling, having access to fire is crucial—one of humanity’s oldest and most reliable tools. Fortunately, you don’t need to rely on ancient methods like rubbing sticks or using flint and steel (though it doesn’t hurt to know them); modern tools make fire-starting much easier.

Carry at least two different fire-starting methods—a Bic lighter is a universal favorite, and stormproof matches are another reliable option. Additionally, bring dry tinder in a waterproof bag to help you start a fire even with wet wood. Always make sure to extinguish your fire completely when you’re done, as it can quickly become a danger to both you and the environment.

Image: Les Argonautes

In the wilderness, a warm meal is more than just something to look forward to—it’s the essential fuel you need to survive and keep moving. Even if you plan to catch fish or game for dinner, don’t rely solely on that. Also, resist the temptation to eat local fruits or seeds; it’s easy to misidentify plants, and many can be highly toxic.

Today, pre-packaged hiking meals are affordable and reliable for most situations. Estimate how many meals you’ll need and pack a bit extra. Always bring high-energy, non-perishable foods that can sustain you in an emergency. Nutrient-dense options like nuts, dried fruits, and energy bars are ideal for long treks and unexpected delays.

Image: Joseph Corl

This is one of the most common mistakes many overconfident hikers make. We can’t stress this enough—always inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time. Let a friend or family member know where you’re going. This way, if something goes wrong, rescuers will have a clear starting point and timeline to locate you.

Additionally, avoid venturing into unfamiliar areas alone. Even if you’re well-prepared, having a partner or friend with you provides extra safety—and it makes the experience more fun. After all, what’s an adventure if you can’t share it with someone you love?

Image: Jesse Gardner

Shelter is essential for protection against the elements and can be crucial for survival. While you might be tempted to leave a heavy tent behind in certain regions or seasons, it’s generally not advisable. Even on sunny days, you’ll need a place to retreat from the sun’s heat. A proper shelter shields you from hypothermia, insects, and other dangers, ensuring a safe and restful night.

Even a basic shelter can make a significant difference—carrying a rope and tarp can be sufficient to keep you dry and protected. Learning to build a shelter from natural materials is also a valuable skill for emergencies, but planning ahead can save you a lot of effort. Whether you’re using a tent, a tarp, or constructing a natural shelter, always choose a safe, level spot away from potential hazards like falling branches or rising water, and set up while there’s still plenty of daylight.

Image: Clay Banks

As any experienced hiker can tell you, layering is key when it comes to clothing in the wilderness. Start with synthetic "moisture-wicking" base layers to keep sweat off your skin, add a couple of insulating layers for warmth, and finish with a waterproof, windproof outer layer to protect against the elements. This system will allow you to adjust your clothing as conditions change, keeping you comfortable and safe at all times.

Footwear is just as crucial. While traditional advice often emphasizes sturdy boots with good ankle support, the effectiveness of these boots in preventing sprains is still debated. Many hikers now opt for trail runners, which are lightweight, flexible, and often more comfortable over long distances. But ultimately, the choice between boots and trail runners depends on the terrain and conditions you’ll encounter. Whichever you choose, make sure your footwear is well broken in and paired with quality socks to prevent blisters and keep your feet in top condition.

Image: Maël BALLAND

In wildlife-rich areas, making noise is a smart strategy to avoid startling animals, which can prevent potentially dangerous encounters. Most animals prefer to steer clear of humans, so announcing your presence can help them avoid you. Bear bells, clapping, or shouting periodically are effective ways to keep wildlife at a safe distance. Some campers also set up trip-wire bear alarms around their campsites to deter any curious visitors.

Additionally, always store your food away from your sleeping area, and keep it tightly sealed to minimize scents that could attract animals. In bear country, although aggressive encounters are quite rare, it’s always wise to carry a last-resort defense like bear spray. Remember, you’re the one in their backyard, and respecting their space and taking precautions ensures that both you and the animals can coexist peacefully.