3

What does Middle English “yreyn” mean?

Wycliffe's Bible

Isaiah.59:5

Studylight:

"Thei han broke eiren of snakis, and maden webbis of an yreyn; he that etith of the eiren of hem, schal die, and that that is nurschid, ether brouyt forth, schal breke out in to a cocatrice."

King James Bible:

"They hatch cockatrice' eggs, and weave the spider's web: he that eateth of their eggs dieth, and that which is crushed breaketh out into a viper."

5

1 Answer 1

5

The OED lists yreyn as a spelling of arain, an obsolete word meaning spider.

1
  • Compare French "araignée"
    – Colin Fine
    Oct 18, 2021 at 15:29

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.