frábært

Frábært is an Icelandic word that translates to "great," "excellent," or "wonderful" in English. It is a commonly used adjective to express strong positive approval or admiration. The word is versatile and can be applied in various contexts, from describing a person's performance or appearance to commenting on a situation or an object.

The etymology of "frábært" is believed to stem from the Old Norse word "frá," meaning "from" or "away," combined with "bært," which relates to "bearing" or "carrying." This historical connection suggests a sense of something being lifted or carried forth in a positive manner.

In contemporary Icelandic, "frábært" is a frequently heard expression. For instance, one might say "Þetta var frábært!" meaning "This was great!" when referring to a meal, a movie, or an experience. Similarly, describing a person as "frábær" implies they are exceptionally good at what they do or possess admirable qualities. The word conveys a high degree of positive sentiment, making it a staple in everyday conversation. Its usage is generally informal but can also appear in more formal contexts to emphasize exceptional quality.