hwæl

hwæl is an Old English word for whale. This term was used in Anglo-Saxon literature and historical documents to refer to the large marine mammals that inhabited the waters surrounding Britain. The word's etymology traces back to Proto-Germanic roots, indicating its long history within the Germanic language family. In Old English poetry, such as the epic poem Beowulf, "hwæl" is often employed, appearing in descriptions of the sea and its creatures. These references provide insight into the early Anglo-Saxon understanding and perception of these animals. The word has evolved over centuries, eventually leading to the modern English "whale." Its presence in Old English highlights the continuity of language and the enduring presence of whales in the human imagination and environment. The usage of "hwæl" in ancient texts serves as a linguistic and cultural marker, connecting modern English speakers to their linguistic ancestors and their historical relationship with the natural world.