DictionaryrunicAncient Germanic writing
adjective

runic

ROO-nik/ˈruːnɪk/

Associated with the symbols of early Germanic writing.

The museum displays a stone covered in ancient runic letters.

A close view of a weathered stone bearing a short row of clearly carved ancient Germanic runes, emphasizing their angular letterforms rather than fantasy ornament.
Etymology

The base links written characters with secrets and magical signs, explaining both uses of runic. Whether the magical meaning preceded the letter meaning is disputed.

In context

This Week in Science (TWIS)80:38
stones inscribed with runic letters of the ancient Scandinavian alphabet
Laser-Guided Lightning, Very, Very Frightening!... 🎵 - This Week in Science (TWIS) Podcast

More examples

  • She studies runic inscriptions carved into wooden sticks.
  • This chart shows the shapes of the runic alphabet.
  • The silver ring bears a short runic inscription.

Forms

runic

rune noun — A letter in early Germanic writing.