reiðufjár

Reiðufjár is an Old Norse term that translates to "ridable horse" or "mount." It specifically refers to a horse that is suitable for riding, as opposed to a horse used for other purposes such as plowing or carrying loads. The distinction was important in Viking Age society, where horses played a significant role in transportation, warfare, and social status. A good riding horse, or reiðufjár, would have been a valuable asset, requiring care and training. The term appears in various Old Norse texts, often in contexts related to travel, military expeditions, or the possessions of chieftains and wealthy individuals. Owning and maintaining reiðufjár was an indicator of a person's standing and capability. The quality of a horse's ability to be ridden would have been a primary consideration when acquiring such an animal.