Eestrid

Eestrid is a term used historically to refer to the Estonians, the ethnic group indigenous to Estonia. The name is an older form of the ethnonym and appears in various historical texts, particularly those from earlier centuries when the specific ethnic identity of the Baltic region was being documented.

The use of "Eestrid" can be found in medieval chronicles and geographical descriptions, often in contexts differentiating various Finnic and Baltic peoples. Over time, the more common and standardized term "Estonians" became prevalent. The linguistic roots of "Eestrid" are tied to the Proto-Finnic word for Estonia or its inhabitants, similar to the origins of the modern term "Eesti" (the Estonian name for Estonia).

While "Eestrid" is largely obsolete in contemporary usage, understanding its historical context helps in interpreting older documents and appreciating the evolution of ethnic nomenclature. It serves as a reminder of the historical layers of identity and language within the Baltic region. The transition from "Eestrid" to "Estonians" reflects the development of a distinct national identity and the standardization of language and terminology.