Did a friend invite you over to play ‘Ragnarok?’ This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The expression ‘Ragnarok’ comes from old Norse Mythology. The official spelling is ‘Ragnarök (/ˈræɡnəˌrɒk, ˈrɑːɡ-/) or ‘Ragnarǫk.’ However, the English spelling doesn’t require using the accents in the ‘o.’
In Norse Mythology, Ragnarok is described as a series of events, beginning with a great battle. The battle of Ragnarok will take the most valiant warriors from Valhalla to fight alongside the Norse God, Odin, in the final battle of good and evil.
During the battle of Ragnarok, we will see the fall of many great warriors and gods, including Thor, Odin, Týr, Freyr, Loki, and Heimdallr.
Example Usage
"Have you seen the demo for the new 'God of War: Ragnarok' title? It looks like it's going to be the best game in the franchise to date. I can't wait for the release."
"Let's go down to GameStop and see if they have any more information on the release date for God of War: Ragnarok. I can't wait to get a copy of it. It's my favorite game franchise of all time."
"I was watching that show 'Vikings' last night. They keep talking about this war called 'Ragnarok.' I don't know what they're talking about. Is it a real war or just a dream?"
"That show Vikings introduces people to a lot of Norse Mythology. Learning about concepts like Valhalla and Ragnarok is interesting to me."
"If we all die as warriors, we will fight alongside Odin in the final battle of Ragnarok. Never let your fear overcome you so you may earn your seat in Valhalla."
"Ragnarok will eventually come to pass. Those prepared and willing to fight are the ones whose families will survive."
"This whole 'Ragnarok' concept in Norse Mythology sounds a lot like the Revelation in the Bible."
Origin
The expression 'Ragnarok' originates from Norse mythology. The Ragnarök event first appeared in the 'Poetic Edda' and the 'Prose Edda,' written by Snorri Sturluson in the 13th century. These texts refer to the event as 'Ragnarøkkr,' which is Old Norse, meaning 'Twilight of the Gods.'
Richard Wagner, a 19th-century composer, released his play 'Der Ring des Nibelungen operas, Götterdämmerung' in 1876, translating to 'Twilight of the Gods.'
The Poetic Edda also features the term ragnarøk(k)r in its singular format in a stanza in the poem 'Lokasenna.' Used as a noun, 'røk(k)r' refers to 'twilight,; from the verb 'røkkva,' meaning to 'grow dark,' presenting grounds for translation into 'Twilight of the Gods.'
The TV show 'Vikings' introduced Norse Mythology to a wide audience. Released on the history channel in 2013, starring Travis Fimmel, 'Vikings' was a smash hit.
'Ragnarok' is also the tile of the latest tile on the 'God of War' video game franchise, released in 2022. It's these references in media that bring the word to the attention of the general public.
Phrases Similar to Ragnarok
- Valhalla.
Phrases Opposite to Ragnarok
- N/A.
What is the Correct Saying?
- Ragnarok.
Ways People May Say Ragnarok Incorrectly
Since 'Ragnarok' is a Norse term referencing the final battle of god and evil, it's not applicable for everyday use and has niche use online. Some gamers might use it when playing titles like 'God of War.'
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Ragnarok
You can use the term 'Ragnarok' to describe the final Viking battle fought in the afterlife. It's a common theme in Norse Mythology. The popularity of the TV show 'Vikings' made Norse concepts like 'Valhalla' and 'Ragnarok' common in media and the global audience watching the show. However, it's a niche term. People with no understanding of the Norse language won't know what you're referencing.
You can use Ragnarok to describe the latest edition of the 'Gog of War' video game franchise. God of War is one of the most successful titles from Sony, launched in 2005. There are several editions to the franchise, with 'Ragnarok' releasing in November 2022. 'Ragnarok' suits use in social conversations only, and it has no professional use.