Päämerkki

Päämerkki is a Finnish term that translates to "main sign" or "principal mark." It is primarily used in the context of the Finnish rune system, a historical script. In this system, the päämerkki represents a core or fundamental sound or concept within a rune. It serves as the central element around which other strokes or modifications are added to create variations of the rune or to denote different phonetic values or meanings. Understanding the päämerkki is crucial for interpreting the nuances of the Finnish rune script. It embodies the essential character of the rune, with its additions and subtractions signifying further layers of information or alteration. The concept of a päämerkki highlights a structured approach to creating a symbolic language, where a foundational element is elaborated upon to generate a wider set of signs.