By Archisha | October 24, 2025
Meaning “listen attentively,” from Old English heorcnian. Used in phrases like “Hark! The herald angels sing,” often in literature, poetry, and historical speech.
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Meaning “enemy or opponent,” from Old English fāh. Still seen in literature, movies, and news, for example, “Old foes reunited in peace.”
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Meaning “to see or observe something remarkable,” from Old English behealdan. Used to express awe, as in “Behold the beauty of nature.”
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An old form of “you,” from Old English þū. Mostly in religious texts or poetry, for example, “Thou shalt not steal.” Gives intimacy and reverence in writing.
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Meaning “over there; in the distance,” from Old English geond. Found in poetry or folk speech, for example, “Look at that mountain yonder.”
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An expression of sorrow or regret from Middle English alas, from Old French helas. Often used in literary speech: “Alas, I missed the chance.”
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Meaning “between,” from Old English betwix. Used poetically or humorously, for example, “Betwixt you and me.” Often appears in literature or fantasy writing.
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An old-fashioned way of saying “no,” from Old Norse nei or Old English nā. Common in formal or parliamentary use: “All opposed say nay.”
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Meaning “to or toward this place,” from Old English hider. Seen in literature, historical movies, or period dramas: “Come hither.”
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Another way to say “while,” from Middle English whilest. Common in British English, for example, “I listened to music whilst cooking,” often in formal writing.
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