- #1
bomba923
- 763
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What is the etymology behind (word history of) the English word,
[size=+3]"Wraith"[/size]
??
[size=+3]"Wraith"[/size]
??
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Wraith: Etymology & Word History
- History
- Thread starter bomba923
- Start date
In summary, the English word "wraith" has uncertain origins, but it is believed to have originated in Scotland. It is possible that the word was influenced by both Old Norse and Scots Gaelic, leading to a "folk-conflation." More information may be needed to determine its exact etymology.
- #2
larkspur
- 515
- 4
http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=wraith"
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- #3
bomba923
- 763
- 0
larkspur said:
"Uncertain origin" is not a good answerhttp://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=wraith said:
...but it will have to do*
(*But at least, now we know that "wraith" is Scottish
, and either Klein or Weekley may be right
)*Until we have more information...
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- #4
Rach3
edit: I replied to a post which afterwards was rewritten (poor etiquette! 
).
).
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- #5
selfAdjoint
Staff Emeritus
Gold Member
Dearly Missed
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Why not both? Since both Old Norse and Erse (Scots Gaelic) were spoken in Scotland, people could have heard both words used, in somewhat similar contexts, and "folk-conflated" them.
- #6
bomba923
- 763
- 0
~Good point
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Related to Wraith: Etymology & Word History
1. What is the definition of a wraith?
A wraith is a ghost or spirit of a dead person that is believed to appear as a shadowy or insubstantial figure.
2. Where does the word "wraith" come from?
The word "wraith" comes from the Old English word "wraith" which means "ghost" or "specter". It is also related to the Old Norse word "raith" which means "a ghost that haunts a place".
3. Is there a difference between a wraith and a ghost?
While both terms can be used to refer to spirits of the dead, a wraith is typically seen as a more elusive and shadowy figure, often associated with death and danger. Ghosts, on the other hand, are usually seen as more tangible and human-like apparitions.
4. Are wraiths a part of any specific culture or mythology?
Wraiths can be found in various cultures and mythologies around the world, such as Celtic, Norse, and Slavic. They are often associated with death, the afterlife, and supernatural powers.
5. What are some famous examples of wraiths in literature and media?
Some famous examples of wraiths include the Nazgûl from J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, the Dementors from J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter" series, and the Wraiths from the video game "Destiny".
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