Hello Language Learners! Ever wondered how the seven days that structure our weeks got their names? As English language learners and now time-travellers, we’re about to embark on an exciting journey through time and space. Grab your cup of tea (or coffee), and let’s uncover the enthralling history hidden within our days!
Sunday – The Shining Star of the Week
Can you feel the warmth of the sun? In Old English, this day was known as ‘Sunnandæg,’ inspired by ‘dies solis,’ a Latin phrase honouring Sol, the Roman sun god. Today, we call it Sunday, reflecting its luminous roots.
Sun /sʌn/ (n): The star that the earth orbits, providing heat and light.
Example: “Every Sunday, I take a morning walk to enjoy the sun.”
Monday – A Reflection of Night’s Beauty
Moonlight illuminates Monday! This day’s name has origins in the Old English ‘Monandæg,’ translating to ‘Moon’s day,’ reflecting the beauty and mystery of the night sky.
Moon /muːn/ (n): The natural satellite of the earth, visible chiefly at night by reflected light from the sun.
Example: “I often notice the moon is particularly bright on Monday evenings.”
Tuesday – The Day of Tyr’s Triumph
Named after the Norse god of war, Tyr, Tuesday comes from ‘Tiwesdæg’ in Old English. Tyr was a brave deity, demonstrating courage and law, key characteristics we can all aspire to.
Tyr /tiːr/ (n): In Norse mythology, the god of law and heroic glory.
Example: “On Tuesdays, I always feel energized and ready to tackle the day, just like Tyr!”
Wednesday – The Wisdom of Odin
Named after the Norse god Odin (or Woden), Wednesday originates from ‘Wodnesdæg.’ As the chief god, Odin embodied wisdom, making Wednesday a perfect day for learning!
Odin /ˈoʊdɪn/ (n): The chief god in Norse mythology, associated with war, wisdom, and poetry.
Example: “I dedicate Wednesdays to reading and absorbing new knowledge, much like Odin would.”
Thursday – Thor’s Thunderous Day
Ever heard the rumble of thunder on a Thursday? This day is named after Thor, the Norse god of thunder! Its Old English root, ‘Þūnresdæg,’ directly translates to ‘Thor’s day.’
Thor /θɔːr/ (n): The Norse god of thunder, renowned for his strength and bravery.
Example: “Thursdays always have a spark of excitement, reminiscent of Thor’s thunderous energy.”
Friday – Freya’s Lovely Day
Celebrate the end of the week with love! Friday is derived from ‘Frīgedæg,’ in honour of Freya, the Norse goddess of love.
Freya /ˈfreɪə/ (n): The Norse goddess of love, beauty, and fertility.
Example: “I make Fridays special by spending time with loved ones, emulating Freya’s spirit of love.”
Saturday – Saturn’s Serene Day
Ah, Saturday, a day for leisure and relaxation, much like its namesake. Saturday comes from ‘Sæturnesdæg,’ reflecting the Roman god Saturn, associated with wealth and time.
Saturn /ˈsætərn/ (n): In Roman mythology, the god of agriculture and time.
Example: “On Saturdays, I take time to relax and recharge, a nod to Saturn’s calm essence.”
Through our exploration, we’ve seen that language isn’t merely a communication tool. It’s a rich tapestry woven from countless threads of culture, history, mythology, and more. So, the next time you plan your week, remember the powerful deities and celestial bodies each day represents. Think you go it all? Try the quiz below. Until next time, English explorers!
#1. What day is named after the Norse god of thunder?
#2. The name ‘Tuesday’ is derived from which Norse god?
#3. Which day means ‘Sun’s day’?
#4. Monday’s name was inspired by?
#5. The name ‘Saturday’ is derived from which Roman god?
#6. The name of which day is derived from ‘Odin’s day’?
#7. What is the origin of the name ‘Friday’?
#8. What does Sunday mean?
#9. Which day is named after the Norse goddess of love?
#10. Which day was named after the Roman god of war?
Results
Great job! A day of the week should be named after you!
Try again, so you can impress your friends with your days of the week knowledge!
