Fēower

Definition

Fēower is the Old English word for the number four. As a cardinal numeral, it is essential for expressing quantity and is foundational in counting and mathematical contexts. Understanding fēower can help in recognizing the structure of numerals in Old English and their grammatical usage in sentences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fēower is part of a unique system of numerals in Old English that includes both cardinal and ordinal forms.
2. In Old English, fēower can also have related adjectives like 'fēowertig,' meaning forty, which illustrates its role in forming larger numbers.
3. The word fēower has cognates in other Germanic languages, such as 'vier' in German and 'four' in modern English, indicating a common linguistic heritage.
4. Fēower is often used in literature and historical texts to indicate quantities of people, items, or significant events.
5. Understanding fēower's grammatical role helps with sentence construction, as it can affect the case and declension of nouns it modifies.

Review Questions

• How does the word fēower relate to the overall structure of numerals in Old English?
  • Fēower is a key example of cardinal numerals in Old English, demonstrating how numbers are formed and used. It represents a foundational concept that connects to other numerals like þrīe and fīf. By understanding fēower, one can grasp the patterns and rules that govern numeral formation in Old English, which is crucial for reading and interpreting texts.
• What are some grammatical implications of using fēower in an Old English sentence?
  • Using fēower in a sentence affects how nouns are declined based on case and number. For instance, if it modifies a noun, the noun must agree with fēower in terms of grammatical case. Additionally, recognizing how fēower functions within phrases helps to understand the broader syntactical structures in Old English.
• In what ways does fēower reflect broader historical or cultural aspects of Old English society?
  • Fēower not only serves as a numeral but also reflects cultural practices related to counting and organization within Old English society. The importance of numbers is evident in various texts where quantities are specified for trade, warfare, or social organization. Studying fēower reveals insights into daily life and societal structure during the Old English period, highlighting how language encapsulates cultural norms and practices.

Related terms

fīf: The Old English term for the number five, following fēower in the sequence of cardinal numbers.

tīen:

This term represents the number ten in Old English, highlighting the base-10 counting system.

þrīe:

The Old English word for three, which, like fēower, plays a crucial role in understanding basic numerals.