þurrkum

þurrkum is an Old Norse word that translates to "dryness" or "drought." It appears in various Old Norse texts, often in contexts relating to natural phenomena or hardship. The term can describe a lack of moisture in the land, leading to agricultural difficulties, or it can have a more metaphorical meaning signifying a state of desolation or scarcity. Its usage in skaldic poetry and sagas typically evokes imagery of barrenness and the challenges faced by communities during periods of insufficient rainfall. The root of the word, "þurr," means "dry." Understanding þurrkum provides insight into the environmental concerns and descriptive language of the Viking Age.