dælum

Dælum is a term that appears in Old English literature, specifically in the context of the poem Beowulf. Its exact meaning is not definitively established, but it is generally understood to refer to a type of protective covering or armor. Scholars have proposed various translations, including "shield," "mail shirt," or "breastplate." The word is often found in descriptions of warriors and their equipment, emphasizing the importance of defense in the combat depicted in the poem. The etymology of dælum is also debated, with connections suggested to Germanic words related to protection or covering. Its precise usage and significance continue to be a subject of scholarly discussion within the field of Anglo-Saxon studies.