varangian Definition
- 1a member of any of the Scandinavian peoples who, as Vikings or traders, ravaged the coasts of Europe in the 8th to 10th centuries
- 2a member of the imperial bodyguard or of the household troops of the Byzantine emperors, especially in the 10th century
Using varangian: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "varangian" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The Varangians were known for their military prowess and their raids on coastal towns.
Example
The Byzantine emperor hired Varangians as his personal bodyguards.
Example
The Varangian Guard was composed of elite warriors from Scandinavia and Eastern Europe.
varangian Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for varangian
- Scandinavian
- raider
- invader
- Viking
- Norseman
Phrases with varangian
the trade route from the Varangians to the Greeks that connected Northern Europe to the Mediterranean
Example
The Varangian route was an important source of trade and cultural exchange between the Vikings and the Byzantine Empire.
Example
The Varangian axe was a fearsome weapon that could easily cleave through armor.
Varangian Rus'
the period in Russian history when the Varangians ruled over the Kievan Rus'
Example
The Varangian Rus' was a time of great political and cultural change in Eastern Europe.
Origins of varangian
from Old Norse 'væringi', meaning 'sworn companion'
Summary: varangian in Brief
The term 'varangian' [vəˈreɪndʒiən] refers to two distinct groups of people. The first are Scandinavian peoples who raided the coasts of Europe in the 8th to 10th centuries. The second are members of the imperial bodyguard or household troops of the Byzantine emperors, especially in the 10th century. The Varangians were known for their military prowess and their use of the Varangian axe. The Varangian route was an important trade route connecting Northern Europe to the Mediterranean.
