þurfir

þurfir is an Old Norse word that translates to "need" or "necessity" in modern English. It is a common verb in Old Norse literature and is often used in contexts discussing requirements, obligations, or things that are essential. The word derives from the Proto-Germanic root *þurbaz, which also relates to the concept of needing or wanting.

The usage of þurfir can be seen in various Old Norse texts, from sagas to eddic poetry. For example, in the Hávamál, a collection of Old Norse wisdom poetry, the word appears in lines discussing prudent actions and what is necessary for a good life. It signifies a state of lacking something essential, and by extension, the action or thing required to fulfill that lack. Understanding þurfir is key to grasping the nuances of Old Norse expressions related to survival, social obligations, and personal well-being. The word's grammatical form indicates it is the second-person singular present indicative of the verb þurfa, meaning "to need."