What is Wyrd?

Written By Rebecca .

Wyrd is an Old English term closely associated with the concept of fate or destiny. It derives from the Proto-Germanic *wurthiz, which signifies the notion of becoming. This term reflects the dynamic nature of life and the belief that individuals have the power to shape their destinies through their actions and choices.

Wyrdo embodies the idea that while fate plays a role in our lives, we also possess the agency to influence our future outcomes. By embracing this concept, Wyrdo Studio encourages individuals to take control of their journeys, using art, music and tattoos as a medium to express and reshape their fates. A Wyrdo is a channel for spirit, there is a trust in the universe and a zen like approach that leads to new exciting things when you find your flow. A Wyrdo makes room for infinity, we’re simply energy we can pick the frequency.

The word wyrd comes from the Proto-Germanic word wurthiz, which means "fate". It is related to the Old English verb weorðan, which means "to become". The word wyrd has cognates in other languages, including:

  • Old Saxon: wurd

  • Old High German: wurt

  • Old Norse: urðr

  • Dutch: worden (to become)

  • German: werden 

The word wyrd is a feminine noun that refers to active fate. It is often linked with death, but can also save life. For example, in Beowulf, the line "Wyrd oft nereð unfǣgne eorl, þonne his ellen dēah" means "Wyrd often saves a man who isn't doomed to die, when his courage avails". 

The word wyrd is also related to the word "weird", which has connotations of the supernatural. This connection developed in Middle English, when the phrase "weird sisters" was used to refer to the Norns, the Norse goddesses of destiny.

In Shakespeare's Macbeth, the three witches are often associated with the word wyrd. However, the negative portrayal of the three witches in 18th and 19th century productions of Macbeth led to a shift in the meaning of the word, from positive and powerful to odd-looking and disturbing. 

A Wyrdo is all encompassing, infinity consciousness has access to all the why’s, we have an innate drive to understand ourselves and the world around us, perhaps because on a subtle level there is a reconciliation of the why’s, so we can tune into the right frequency and the problem becomes the solution in a zen-like good way, fear turns to play.

Rebecca .