runic
UK: ˈruːnɪk | US: ˈruːnɪk
adj. relating to or consisting of runes (ancient Germanic alphabet characters)
adj. having a mysterious or archaic quality, reminiscent of ancient inscriptions
The word "runic" derives from "rune," referring to the characters of the early Germanic alphabets used from roughly the 3rd to 13th centuries. The suffix "-ic" (from Latin "-icus" via Old French) turns the noun into an adjective. Historically, runes were not just letters but also held magical or divinatory significance in Norse and Anglo-Saxon cultures. Over time, "runic" expanded metaphorically to describe anything with an ancient, cryptic, or mystical aura.
The Viking stone was covered in runic inscriptions.
She wore a necklace with a runic symbol believed to bring protection.
The poet used a runic style to evoke an ancient atmosphere.
Scholars debated the meaning of the runic carvings found in the cave.
His handwriting had a strangely runic quality, as if from another era.