þrengt

þrengt is an Old Norse word that translates to "narrow," "tight," or "crowded" in English. It is the past participle of the verb þrengja, meaning "to narrow," "to press," or "to constrict." The word can be used in various contexts, both literal and figurative.

Literally, þrengt can describe a physical space that is small or constricted. For example, one might speak of a þrengt vegur (narrow road) or a þrengt hús (tight house). Figuratively, it can describe a situation that is difficult, oppressive, or lacking in freedom. A person might feel þrengt in their circumstances if they are facing financial hardship or social constraints.

The word þrengt appears in numerous Old Norse texts, including sagas and poetry. Its usage often conveys a sense of discomfort, restriction, or urgency. For instance, in the context of battle, a þrengt staður could refer to a confined area where soldiers were tightly packed, making maneuvering difficult and increasing the danger. The concept of being "pressed" or "squeezed" is central to its meaning.

While Old Norse is no longer spoken as a vernacular language, the word þrengt and its descendants exist in modern Scandinavian languages, albeit with variations in spelling and sometimes slightly altered meanings. It serves as a reminder of the linguistic richness of the Old Norse period and the enduring nature of certain descriptive terms.