Author Archives: Hana Videen

snǣsan

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snǣsan, wk.v: to spit, run through with a pointed implement or weapon. (SNAZZ-ahn / ˈsnæː-zan)

Medieval manuscript image of two men cooking three animals on a long spit; one man sits and turns the spit, while the other uses a long pronged tool to tend the fire.
Luttrell Psalter; N England (Lincolnshire), 1325-40; British Library, Add MS 42130, f. 206v. [bl.uk]

bearn-cennicge

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bearn-cennicge, n: mother (literally ‘child-creator’ or ‘one who brings forth children’). (BEH-arn-CHEN-ni-juh / ˈbɛarn-ˌtʃɛn-nɪ-dʒə)

Medieval manuscript image of the Virgin Mary crowned and seated upon a throne with a haloed Christ child on her lap; in the woman’s right hand is a gold ball with a plant-like growth coming out of it; they sit within a frame of a colourful architectural structure with gold curtains behind them.
Shaftesbury Psalter; England, 12th century; British Library, Lansdowne MS 383, f. 165v. [bl.uk]