hjelper

Hjelper is a Norwegian word that functions as both a verb form and a noun. As a verb, it is the present tense of the verb å hjelpe, meaning to help or assist: han hjelper, hun hjelper, de hjelper. In Bokmål and Nynorsk the form is the same. As a noun, hjelper denotes a person who helps or assists; the indefinite singular is en hjelper, the plural is hjelpere, and the definite forms are hjelperen (the helper) and hjelperne (the helpers).

Etymology: the word derives from Old Norse hjálpa, meaning to help, and is cognate with English help and other Germanic forms.

Usage: the term can be used for a general helper, an assistant, or in professional contexts to denote someone providing help. It is common in everyday language, for example describing a parent helping a child, a colleague who assists on a project, or a technician serving as a helper in a workshop. In more formal contexts, words like assistent or medarbeider may be preferred, depending on register and specificity.

Cross-linguistic notes: similar forms exist in Danish (hjælper) and Swedish (hjälper), reflecting shared Germanic roots.

See also: hjelpe, hjelp, assistent, støtte.