glæde

Glæde is a Danish noun that denotes a positive emotional state of joy, happiness, or delight. It can refer to the feeling itself as well as to the pleasant experiences that provoke it. In everyday use, glæde describes moments of pleasure, such as good company, success, or favorable events. The word is often contrasted with lykke, which tends to refer to a broader, longer‑lasting sense of happiness or well‑being. There is also a related verb sense meaning to please or to delight.

Etymology and related terms: Glæde originates from Old Danish glede/gleði and is closely related to Old Norse gleði. It is cognate with Norwegian glede and Swedish glädje, and forms part of the same Germanic family as the English word glad. The concept emphasizes a positive, immediate emotion arising from favorable circumstances.

Usage and cultural context: In Danish culture, glæde appears in everyday speech as well as in literature, music, and media. Common expressions include "glæde sig" (to look forward to something), "at bringe glæde" (to bring joy), and the adjectival form "glædelig" (joyful, merry), as in "glædelig jul" (Merry Christmas). The term is a central part of discussions of mood, well‑being, and social interaction, reflecting the social and relational nature of happiness in Danish discourse.