vandaður

Vandaður is an Icelandic adjective meaning “well-made, of high quality” and, when applied to people, “upstanding, conscientious, respectable.” The primary sense describes objects, work, or conditions that have been produced, maintained, or executed with care and skill. When used of people, it denotes reliable character or prudent conduct. The term appears in descriptive writing, reviews, and formal speech, as well as in everyday language to praise craftsmanship or diligence. It carries a positive, precise nuance beyond a simple “good.”

Etymology and form: The word is built from the verb vanda “to take care, to attend to” with the participial suffix -aður, forming an adjective that agrees with the noun in gender and number. In standard Icelandic, it inflects like other adjectives; common forms include vandaður (masculine singular) and vandað (neuter singular); feminine form is vönduð.

Usage notes: In character descriptions, “hann er vandaður maður” conveys integrity and reliability. For objects or services, “vandaður” highlights craftsmanship, durability, or careful maintenance. The nuance is positive and somewhat formal; the term is more precise than merely saying something is “good” or “nice.” Examples: “Hann er vandaður maður.” “Húsið er vandað.” “Vandaður matur var boðinn á veitingastaðnum.”