Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

atheling

Noun
/ˈaθ.ə.lɪŋ/
Definition
A prince or nobleman in Anglo-Saxon England.
Examples
  • The young atheling was trained in the ways of leadership from an early age.
  • In the stories of old, the atheling often embarked on quests to prove their worthiness.
  • Many of the nobles were jealous of the atheling’s noble heritage and sought to undermine him.
Meaning
Historically, an atheling refers to a person of royal blood, often regarded as a potential heir to the throne. This term was used to denote a high-status individual who was expected to be a leader or ruler.
Synonyms
  • Noble
  • Prince
  • Royal