Stenene

Stenene is the definite plural form of the noun meaning “stone” in several Scandinavian languages, most notably Norwegian Bokmål and Danish, where the expression translates to “the stones.” The form is used to reference multiple stones that are known or being discussed, whether in natural settings, architecture, or literature.

Etymology and form: The base noun stems from the Proto-Germanic heritage shared with cognates such as German Stein, Dutch steen, and English stone. In Norwegian and Danish, the definite plural suffix -ene marks nouns as definite and plural, producing stenene for “the stones.” The word appears in medieval texts and remains common in everyday speech and written language.

Usage: In everyday Norwegian and Danish, stenene appears in phrases like “stenene i fjellet” (the stones in the mountain) or “å tråkke på stenene” (to step on the stones). In literature, the term is used to describe rock, pebbles, or stone structures and can carry metaphorical or symbolic connotations related to solidity or age.

Cultural and linguistic notes: Spelling and usage can vary by dialect and region. In Swedish, the equivalent definite plural is usually “stenarna.” The term stenene is primarily a linguistic and lexical entry for the noun “stone,” not a specialized mineral term, and it does not denote a distinct material with unique properties beyond its ordinary meaning.