þekkjumst

þekkjumst is an Icelandic word that translates to "we know each other" or "we are acquainted." It is the first-person plural present indicative form of the verb þekkja, which means "to know" or "to recognize." The reflexive pronoun -umst indicates that the action is reciprocal, meaning the subject (we) is acting upon itself or each other.

The word is commonly used in social contexts to establish or confirm a mutual understanding between two or more people. For example, if someone approaches you and you are unsure if you know them, they might say "þekkjumst við?" which translates to "Do we know each other?" Conversely, if you are introducing yourself to someone you believe you've met before, you might say "Ég held að við þekkjumst" meaning "I think we know each other."

The verb þekkja itself has a broad meaning, encompassing not only factual knowledge but also familiarity and recognition. Therefore, þekkjumst can imply a deeper level of acquaintance than a simple acknowledgment of having met. It suggests a shared history or connection, however brief. The word is a fundamental part of everyday conversation in Iceland, facilitating social interactions and the formation of relationships.