þrýstir

Þrýstir, also spelled as Thrystir, is a term that appears in Old Norse and Old Icelandic texts, often used in the context of mythological and historical narratives. The term is derived from the Old Norse word "þrýstir," which means "to press" or "to thrust." In the context of mythology, þrýstir is often associated with the god Odin, who is said to have been "pressed" or "thrust" into the earth during the battle of Ragnarök, a catastrophic event in Norse mythology. This event is described in various sources, including the Prose Edda and the Poetic Edda, and is often interpreted as Odin's death or transformation.

In historical contexts, þrýstir is sometimes used to describe the process of settling or establishing a settlement, as in the case of the Icelandic settlers who were "pressed" or "thrust" into the wilderness of Iceland. This usage reflects the harsh and challenging nature of the Icelandic environment, which required the settlers to adapt and thrive in difficult conditions.

Overall, þrýstir is a term that carries significant meaning in both mythological and historical contexts, reflecting the themes of transformation, adaptation, and the challenges of establishing a new settlement in a harsh environment.