Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • The world of humanity in Norse mythology: In Norse cosmology, Midgard is the realm inhabited by human beings. It is conceived as a fortified enclosure, often described as being surrounded by an impassable ocean inhabited by the great serpent Jörmungandr. Midgard is connected to Asgard, the realm of the gods, by the rainbow bridge Bifröst. It is one of the Nine Worlds held within the branches and roots of the world tree, Yggdrasil.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The gods created Midgard from the body of the giant Ymir.
  • In the myths, Thor often defends Midgard from giants and monsters.
  • Midgard lies between the realm of the gods and the realm of the giants.

Advanced Usage

• "Midgard Serpent" (Jörmungandr): A specific term referring to the enormous snake that encircles Midgard, biting its own tail.
  • Thor's fishing trip, where he attempts to catch the Midgard Serpent, is a famous myth.
• Conceptual use in modern fantasy: The term is often adopted in fantasy literature, games, and media to denote a human world within a mythological or multiversal framework.
  • The video game uses "Midgard" as the name for its primary human kingdom.

Variants and Related Words

• Midgardian (adj): Of or relating to Midgard.
  • Midgardian heroes are often aided by the gods.
• Asgard: The realm of the Æsir gods.
• Jötunheim: The realm of the giants (Jötnar), often in opposition to Midgard.

Synonyms

• Middle-earth: (Note: While conceptually similar as the "world of men," this is a distinct term from J.R.R. Tolkien's legendarium, which was itself inspired by Norse mythology.)
• The world of men: A descriptive synonym within the mythological context.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• The Nine Worlds: The collective term for the realms in Norse cosmology, which include Midgard, Asgard, Jötunheim, and others.
• Bifröst: The burning rainbow bridge that connects Asgard and Midgard.

Noun

1. (Norse mythology) the abode of humans in Norse mythology