keðja

Keðja is the Icelandic noun for "chain." It denotes a connected series of linked elements, most commonly a physical chain made of metal used to transmit force, secure loads, or lift objects. The term also covers figurative meanings, such as a chain of events, a chain of custody, or a chain of reasoning, where items or steps are linked in sequence.

In scientific and technical language, keðja appears in compounds describing chained processes. For example, keðjuverkun is used to refer to a chain reaction in chemistry or physics.

Etymology and cognates: Keðja is of Germanic origin and has cognates in neighboring Scandinavian languages, notably Danish kæde. The Icelandic form is part of this family, reflecting a common Indo-European concept of linked elements.

Usage notes: The word is common in everyday Icelandic and in technical writing. Definite and plural forms are used as in other Icelandic nouns, with inflection depending on number and case.

See also: chain, chain reaction.