þykkan

þykkan is a Middle English word meaning "thick." It is derived from the Old English word þicce. The word has survived into modern English, though its spelling has changed.

Historically, þykkan was used to describe a variety of things that were dense or viscous. This could include liquids such as water or blood, as well as solid substances like fog or walls. The word could also be used metaphorically to describe something that was difficult to understand or unintelligent.

In contemporary English, the word "thick" retains many of these meanings. It is commonly used to describe physical density, such as a thick forest or a thick soup. It is also used to describe a lack of intelligence or understanding, as in "he's thick." The evolution from þykkan to "thick" reflects broader changes in English pronunciation and spelling over centuries. While the spelling has changed significantly, the core meaning of density or viscosity remains largely consistent. The word's etymological roots trace back to Germanic languages, highlighting its long history within the English language family. Its usage in Middle English literature provides insight into the descriptive language of that period.