Weldan

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. An Old English verb meaning to wield, handle or exercise control over something such as a weapon or power
2. Archaic Old English term for holding authority over, or skillfully wielding, a tool, weapon or realm
3. The Old English verb for controlling or governing something, especially by physically handling or commanding it

Etymology: In Old English, "weldan" meant to have power over something: to rule a kingdom, control a people, or hold authority. A "wealda" was a ruler, and the word carried a sense of command rather than physical handling. The modern "wield" descends directly from it, and it kept the older idea of exercising power, as in wielding influence or authority, though today it more often describes holding a tool or weapon. The verb's relatives across Germanic languages show the same core sense. German "walten" means to govern or prevail, and Old Norse "valda" meant to cause or bring about. The Old English form was spelled in several ways, including "wealdan," which is why some modern dictionaries list the older spelling alongside it. The metal-joining verb "weld" is a separate word that came into English much later, so the two are unrelated despite their similar spelling.