Ever wondered what your name or a favorite phrase would sound like in the language of ancient Anglo-Saxons? Translating Modern English into Old English is more than a fun language twist—it’s a journey through the roots of the English we speak today.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Old English different from Modern English and Middle English, and how you can translate your words into this historic form of communication.
Old English (also known as Anglo-Saxon) was spoken in parts of what is now England and southern Scotland from roughly 450 to 1150 AD. It looks and sounds completely different from the English we know today.
Modern English: "The king ruled the land."
Old English: "Se cyning rīxode þǣm eard."
Old English was heavily influenced by Germanic and Norse languages, with a complex grammar system including noun cases, genders, and b/weak verbs.
Before translating, it's important to understand the evolution of English over time:
Old English had inflections and a flexible word order. Instead of relying on word placement like we do now, it used different word endings to show meaning.
For example:
Example: "You are my friend." → Þū eart mīn frēond.
Learning to translate by hand is fun, but not always practical.
For fast and accurate results, try our free Old English Translator. Just enter a word, phrase, or sentence in Modern English, and see how it transforms into the ancient tongue of the Anglo-Saxons—instantly!
Old English is the grandfather of the language we speak today. Though it feels unfamiliar, it's a rich, poetic, and powerful tongue. Translating into it gives you a deeper appreciation for the evolution of English—and lets you speak like a Saxon warrior or monk for fun.
👉 Anglo-Saxon Translator and bring your modern words back to their ancient roots!