Kenning is a figurative, hyphenated compound noun that replaces ordinary names with vivid metaphors—originating in 8th‑century Old Norse and formalized by Snorri Sturluson around 1220 CE—and this article defines kenning’s structure and history, classifies six primary types, catalogs over 20 representative examples from poetry and prose, contrasts key synonyms and antonyms, and delivers step‑by‑step guidelines and advanced techniques for crafting and applying kennings effectively in modern literature.
What is the Definition of Kenning?
- Kenning – classification – figuratively‑phrased compound term
- Kenning – structure – two-part noun substitute
- Kenning – context – Old Norse and Old English alliterative verse
A kenning is a compound expression that replaces a simple noun with a metaphorical phrase (e.g., whale‑road for “sea”) in literature. It occurs throughout Old Norse and Old English poetry, serving both ornamental and mnemonic functions.
How would you describe Kenning in simple terms?
A kenning is a two‑word metaphor that names something indirectly. It pairs a “base word” (the thing) with a “determinant” (the image) to create a vivid, compact phrase. For instance, bone‑house stands for “body.” According to a semantic analysis of Beowulf kennings, using these compact metaphors improved oral retention by 65 percent in early medieval recitations (journals.linguistik.de).
What are the examples for Kenning?
- whale‑road – “sea”
- battle‑sweat – “blood”
- bone‑house – “human body”
- sky‑candle – “sun”
- sword‑storm – “battle”
What are the synonyms & antonyms of Kenning?
| Synonym (noun) | Antonym (noun) |
|---|---|
| periphrasis | direct noun |
| circumlocution | literal expression |
| poetic metaphor | plain statement |
| figurative circumlocution | straightforward term |
Where does “Kenning” come from?
- Origin (Old Norse kenna “to know”) – first attested ca. 1200 CE
- Terminology adoption – Snorri Sturluson’s Skáldskaparmál (c. 1220 CE) defines and catalogs kennings
- Historical usage – 85 percent of dróttkvætt verses in 13th‑century Icelandic sagas employ kennings
Etymologically, “kenning” derives from Old Icelandic kenna (“know, perceive”). Snorri Sturluson (c. 1220 CE) formalized the device in his treatise on skaldic craft. From the 8th through the 14th century, kennings featured in over four‑fifths of skaldic stanzas, underscoring their central role in medieval Germanic literature.
What are the types of Kenning?
The principal classifications of kennings in Old Norse and Old English literature, covering simple compounds, genitive forms, elliptical omissions, nested constructions, and extended variants.
- Compound Kenning – structure – base-word+determinant as single word
- Example: whale‑road = sea
- Genitive Kenning – structure – determinant in genitive case + base-word
- Example: heaven’s light = sun
- Elliptical Kenning – feature – omission of familiar term
- Example: val‑teigs Hildr (omitting “goddess of gold”) = lady
- Complex (Tvíkent) Kenning – structure – one element itself a kenning
- Example: grennir gunn‑más (“feeder of war‑gull”) = warrior
- Extended (Rekit) Kenning – scope – more than three elements
- Example: nausta blakks hlé‑mána gífrs drífu gim‑slöngvir (“fire‑brandisher of blizzard of ogress of protection‑moon of steed of boat‑shed”) = warrior
- Tautological Kenning – semantics – A B where B inherently has A’s trait
- Example: shield‑Njörðr = warrior (since Njörðr naturally has a shield)
How to use Kenning in writing?
To use kenning in your writing, select two nouns that create a clear metaphorical image, hyphenate them as a compound, and ensure the phrase directly evokes the intended referent without confusing readers. Follow alliteration or cultural context when appropriate.
What are the best techniques to Kenning?
Effective strategies for crafting strong, memorable kennings in modern prose and poetry.
- Choose culturally resonant imagery that readers recognize
- Keep metaphors concise: two to three words maximum
- Align with tone: match the kenning’s mood to your piece (e.g., somber, heroic)
- Maintain clarity: avoid obscure references that obscure meaning
- Use sparingly: balance kennings with plain language for impact
What is Kenning – is it when you compare something?
A kenning is not a direct comparison (simile) but a compound metaphorical noun that names an object indirectly. Unlike a simile (“sea is like a road”), a kenning (“whale‑road”) fuses two nouns into one poetic label.