edda
C2Academic / Literary
Definition
Meaning
The name for either of two medieval Icelandic literary works fundamental to Norse mythology and Germanic heroic legend.
The term can also refer, by extension, to any collection of Old Norse poetry or mythological texts in this tradition.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Refers specifically to two distinct works: the 'Prose Edda' (by Snorri Sturluson) and the 'Poetic Edda' (an anonymous older collection of poems). It is a proper noun but often used without italics or quotes.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in usage or spelling.
Connotations
Carries the same scholarly, historical, and mythological connotations in both regions.
Frequency
Equally rare outside academic contexts in both UK and US English.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Proper Noun] + verb (describes/contains/tells of) + mythologyVocabulary
Synonyms
Neutral
Weak
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Not used.
Academic
Frequent in studies of medieval literature, Norse mythology, and Germanic philology.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Used as a precise term in literary history and Scandinavian studies.
Examples
By Part of Speech
adjective
British English
- Eddaic poetry
American English
- Eddaic tradition
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The story of Thor's fishing trip is famously told in the Prose Edda.
- Scholars continue to debate the precise dating and provenance of the Poetic Edda manuscripts.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: EDDA sounds like 'Elder'—the Elder Edda is one of the two main texts.
Conceptual Metaphor
A WELLSPRING of myths; a FOUNDATIONAL TEXT for a culture.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with Russian diminutive names (e.g., 'Edik'). It is not a person's name in English.
Common Mistakes
- Using lowercase ('an edda'), treating it as a common noun.
- Confusing the Prose and Poetic Edda.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is NOT one of the Eddas?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they are two distinct collections. The Poetic Edda is an older collection of anonymous poems. The Prose Edda is a later, structured guide to Norse mythology and poetics written by Snorri Sturluson.
No, it is a highly specialised term confined to academic discussions of Norse literature and mythology.
The etymology is uncertain, but theories suggest it may derive from Old Norse 'óðr' (poetry) or be related to the place name Oddi, where Snorri was educated.
No, it is specific to the Icelandic works. Using it for, say, Greek mythology would be incorrect.