Auðigr

Auðigr is an Old Norse word that translates to "rich" or "wealthy." It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word *audiz, meaning "wealth" or "fortune." The word auðigr can be used to describe a person who possesses great material wealth, such as land, livestock, or precious metals. It can also refer to a person who is blessed with good fortune or abundant resources.

In Old Norse literature, characters are often described as auðigr to signify their social standing and influence. The possession of wealth was a significant factor in medieval Scandinavian society, impacting a person's power, prestige, and ability to form alliances. The concept of auðigr extends beyond mere monetary value; it encompasses a broader sense of prosperity and abundance.

The feminine form of the word is auðig, and the neuter form is auðigt. Variations in spelling and usage can be found across different Old Norse dialects and texts. The concept of being auðigr was closely linked to the responsibilities that came with wealth, such as the obligation to provide for one's household and to engage in generous patronage. Understanding the meaning of auðigr provides insight into the economic and social values of the Viking Age.