hvöss

Hvöss is a term that appears in Old Norse literature, most notably in the Poetic Edda. It is often translated as "fierce," "strong," or "powerful." The word can be used to describe various entities, including gods, giants, and even abstract concepts.

One of the most prominent occurrences of hvöss is in the poem Vafþrúðnismál, where the giant Vafþrúðnir uses it to describe Odin. He states that Odin has traveled through many realms and faced "hvöss" (fierce) beings. The term can also be found in other Eddic poems, generally conveying a sense of formidable might or intensity.

The exact etymology of hvöss is debated among scholars, but it is believed to be related to Old Norse words indicating sharpness or keenness. This connection suggests a meaning that goes beyond mere physical strength, implying a cutting or penetrating force.

The use of hvöss in Old Norse texts highlights a cultural appreciation for attributes such as courage, resilience, and formidable power in both the divine and mortal realms. It is a descriptive term that contributes to the vivid imagery and the portrayal of powerful figures within Norse mythology.