svelgja

Svelgja is an Icelandic verb meaning to swallow, the act of taking something into the mouth and passing it to the stomach, including food, liquids, and medicine. It is also used in metaphorical senses to denote accepting or enduring something, such as a difficult truth or an apology.

Etymology and cognates: The verb derives from North Germanic roots and has cognates in other Scandinavian languages, notably Swedish svälja and Norwegian svelge. This reflects a shared historical development within the branch of Germanic languages that includes Icelandic.

Usage and grammar: Svelgja is used with a direct object to indicate what is being swallowed (for example, medicine, water, or food). It also appears in idiomatic and figurative expressions in which swallowing a statement, a lie, or pride conveys acceptance or resignation. In medical contexts, the verb describes the physical action of swallowing and can be connected to terms describing swallowing reflexes or disorders. As a regular verb, it follows standard Icelandic conjugation patterns for the class of verbs to which it belongs, allowing forms that reflect tense, mood, person, and number.

In translation and context: In English translations, svelgja corresponds to “to swallow” and is often rendered in phrases such as “to swallow a pill” or “to swallow one’s pride.” Figurative uses are common in Icelandic prose and speech, mirroring common English idioms, though the exact expression may vary with context.

See also: Icelandic verbs, North Germanic cognates, dysphagia.