atheling

noun

ath·​e·​ling ˈa-thə-liŋ How to pronounce atheling (audio) -t͟hə- How to pronounce atheling (audio)
: an Anglo-Saxon prince or nobleman
especially : the heir apparent or a prince of the royal family

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English ætheling, from æthelu nobility, akin to Old High German adal nobility

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of atheling was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near atheling

Cite this Entry

“Atheling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atheling. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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