Bosworth & Toller Anglo-Saxon(Old English) Dictionary

This is an online edition of the Anglo-Saxon(Old English) Dictionary, reflecting the English language as used between approximately 700-1100 AD.

Based on the manuscript collections of Joseph Bosworth and T. Northcote Toller, it stands as the most comprehensive dictionary of Old English available today.

What is Old English?

Old English, also known as Anglo-Saxon, was the early form of the English language spoken in medieval England. It has significantly influenced the modern English language.

A sample of Old English:

Hwæt! Wē Gār-Dena in ġeārdagum, þēod-cyninga, þrym ġefrūnon, hū ðā æþelingas ellen fremedon. Oft Sċyld Sċefing sċeaþena þrēatum, monegum mǽgþum, meodo-setla oftēah, egsode eorlas, syððan ǽrest wearð fēasċeaft funden; hē þæs frōfre gebād, wēox under wolcnum, weorðmyndum þāh, oðþæt him ǽġhwylc þāra ymbsittendra ofer hron-rāde hýran scolde, gomban gyldan. Þæt wæs gōd cyning.

- Excerpt is from the Old English epic poem "Beowulf."

Features of Our Old English Dictionary

• Extensive Lexicon: Comprehensive collection of Old English words, including rare terms and various word forms.
• Detailed Definitions: Provides thorough explanations, including grammatical information, usage contexts, and historical references.
• Etymology Insights: Offers etymological information, tracing word origins and linguistic evolution.
• Cross-References: Includes references to related words, enhancing understanding of semantic connections.
• Textual Examples: Incorporates quotations from Old English texts, illustrating word usage in context.
• Linguistic Variations: Presents alternative spellings and dialectal forms, reflecting the diversity of Old English.

How to Use Our Old English Dictionary

1. Enter Search Term: Type an Old English word in the search bar.
2. Explore Entries: View detailed word entries, including definitions, grammatical information, and usage examples.
3. Check Related Words: Explore cross-references to deepen your understanding of word relationships.
4. Examine Etymology: Learn about word origins and historical development.

How Our Dictionary Works

Our Old English Dictionary is based on the comprehensive Bosworth and Toller Anglo-Saxon Dictionary. It combines traditional lexicography with modern digital accessibility, offering users a rich resource for exploring the intricacies of Old English vocabulary and usage.