Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
Harefoot

Harefoot

1 9.9
King of England from 1035 to 1040 who was the son of Canute
  • proper noun
: Haroldo I
  • The reign of Harefoot was marked by political turmoil and uncertainty.

Examples

  • Harefoot was crowned King of England after the death of his father, Canute.

  • Historians debate the legitimacy of Harefoot's claim to the English throne.

  • King Harefoot ruled England for a short period.

  • Did Harefoot really seize the throne from his half-brother?

  • Harold Harefoot became king of England after his father's death in 1035.

  • The history books often mention Harefoot as an illegitimate son who rose to power.

  • Many legends surround Harefoot, the king known for his claim to the English throne.

Synonyms

Harold Harefoot
vsHarefoot
1 9.9

A king of England from 1035 to 1040, son of Canute, whose right to rule is doubtful

states illegitimate parentage as fact rather than highlighting doubts about it
Harold I
vsHarefoot
9.9

King of England from 1035 to 1040 who took the throne in 1037 and was a son of Canute

is the same person but is mainly known by a nickname
King Harold I
vsHarefoot
9.3

A king of England from 1035 to 1040 who took the throne in 1037

is framed by a popular nickname rather than focusing on the seizure

Surface Forms

Harefoot main

Morphology

Harefoot = hare + foot (semi-transparent) = hare + foot

The compound 'hare' + 'foot' is clear as components, but as a historical epithet (a proper name) its function as a nickname for a person may not be fully predictable for learners.

Etymology

Harefoot was a nickname for King Harold I. It probably comes from old words Hare and foot, meaning 'hare' and 'foot', so people thought he was quick or light on his feet and remembered him as 'hare-foot'.