frumuhimnuna

Frumuhimnuna is a term with origins in Old Norse, often translated as "foremother" or "ancestral mother." It refers to a foundational female ancestor from whom a lineage or a group traces its descent. This concept is not exclusive to Norse mythology or culture; similar ideas of venerated female ancestors appear in various cultures and mythologies worldwide.

In a broader sense, frumuhimnuna can represent the originating female figure who established a particular family, clan, or even a people. This figure is often imbued with symbolic importance, representing fertility, creation, and the continuation of life. While not always a deified goddess, the frumuhimnuna often holds a position of respect and reverence within a traditional or mythological framework. The idea emphasizes the crucial role of women in establishing and perpetuating lineages, a perspective that can be found in both historical and mythological narratives across different societies.