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King Harold I

King Harold I

9.3
A king of England from 1035 to 1040 who took the throne in 1037
  • proper noun
: Rey Harold I
  • King Harold I was the illegitimate son of Canute and took the throne of England in 1037.

Examples

  • Many historians refer to King Harold I by his nickname, 'Harold Harefoot.'

  • Medieval chronicles describe the brief reign of King Harold I following Canute's death.

  • King Harold I was known for his rapid seizure of the English throne in 1037.

  • King Harold I ruled briefly.

  • Don't forget King Harold I!

  • Many legends surround King Harold I, who ruled England for just a few years.

  • King Harold I is remembered for his swift claim to the English crown after Canute's passing.

Synonyms

Harefoot
vsKing Harold I
1 9.9

King of England from 1035 to 1040 who was the son of Canute

uses the formal designation rather than the epithet
Harold Harefoot
vsKing Harold I
1 9.9

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

focuses on a neutral account without stressing doubt
Harold I
vsKing Harold I
9.9

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

is the same description without any different emphasis

Surface Forms

Morphology

king + Harold + I

The phrase is compositionally transparent: 'king' denotes a male sovereign, 'Harold' is a personal name, and 'I' indicates the first of that name, so a B1 learner who knows the constituents will understand it refers to a king called Harold the First. Specific historical details (dates, parentage, events) are not derivable from the words, but the core referential meaning is directly built from the constituents.

Etymology

King Harold I was the son of King Canute who became king of England in 1037 and is often called 'Harold Harefoot'. One popular story says the nickname came because he moved like a hare when he rushed to 'take the throne', so the name helps you remember he took power quickly.