Willeð

Willeð is a term that appears in Old English literature, primarily in poetry. It is a verb form and its exact meaning and usage can be nuanced depending on the context. Generally, willeð is understood to be a third-person singular present tense form of the verb *willan*, meaning "to wish," "to want," or "to desire." This is cognate with the modern English "will" in its older sense of volition, rather than its use as a future auxiliary.

In Old English texts, when willeð is encountered, it typically indicates that a singular subject, such as a person or a deity, has a desire or intention. For example, a line might be translated as "he willeð that it be so," meaning "he wishes that it be so." The verb *willan* itself was quite common and carried a strong sense of intent and volition, often more so than the modern "want."

The form willeð is a clear indicator of the grammatical structure of Old English, showcasing the inflectional endings that were characteristic of the language. Understanding such forms is crucial for accurate translation and interpretation of Anglo-Saxon poetry and prose. While the modern English "will" has evolved significantly in its grammatical function, the root of willeð can still be traced back to this fundamental expression of desire and intention.