þráðrur

þráðrur is an Old Norse word that translates to "thread" or "yarn." It refers to spun fibers used for weaving, sewing, or other textile purposes. The word's etymology traces back to the Proto-Germanic word *þrōþuz, which also denoted thread.

In historical and literary contexts, þráðrur appears in Old Norse sagas and poems, often metaphorically. For instance, it can symbolize fate or destiny, as in the concept of the Norns spinning the threads of life. The strength, fineness, or entanglement of these threads could represent the course of an individual's life or the interconnectedness of events.

Beyond its literal and metaphorical meanings, þráðrur is also a key component in understanding Old Norse material culture. The production of thread was a fundamental skill, and the quality of thread directly impacted the quality of cloth produced. This was important for clothing, sails, and other essential items in Viking Age society. The word itself, therefore, carries connotations of both practical necessity and symbolic depth within the Old Norse world.