farvel

Farvel is a word used primarily in Danish, as well as in Norwegian and Swedish, to bid farewell or goodbye. In Danish and Norwegian spellings, it is written farvel; in Swedish it is written farväl, with a diaeresis on the a. The term functions as both a sentence by itself (a farewell) and as part of longer phrases such as “farvel og tak” (goodbye and thanks) or “farvel til alt.” It can be used in formal and informal contexts, though in Swedish farväl is now more literary or ceremonial, whereas more informal partings use hej då.

Etymology: Farvel derives from Germanic roots shared with English farewell. It is a compound of words meaning to travel or go (fare/fara in Scandinavian languages) and well (vel). The literal sense is “go well” and it originated as a blessing or well-wishing to someone who is departing. Over time, it became a standard expression for goodbye.

Usage and cultural notes: In modern Danish and Norwegian, farvel remains common in both spoken and written communication. It can imply a temporary separation or a final parting. In more intimate or casual conversation, people might use hej då instead. In Swedish, farväl is more formal or literary; everyday language tends toward hej då. The term also appears in literature, music, and film as a recognizable farewell lexeme.

See also: Farewell (English); farväl in Swedish literature; hej då.