iwis

American  

[ih-wis] / ɪˈwɪs /

Or ywis

adverb

Obsolete.

1. certainly.

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iwis British  

/ ɪˈwɪs /

adverb

1. an archaic word for certainly

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Etymology

Origin of iwis

First recorded before 900; Middle English, adverb use of neuter of Old English gewiss (adjective) “certain”; cognate with Dutch gewis, German gewiss “certain, certainly”; akin to wit ²; y-

Example Sentences

Iwis, Ywis, i-wis′, adv. certainly—sometimes ignorantly written I wis, as if 'I know.'

From Project Gutenberg

One whyle then the page he went,115 Another whyle he ranne; Till he had oretaken king Estmere, Iwis he never blanne.

From Project Gutenberg

Ure feder þet in heovene is, Þet is al soþ ful iwis!

From Project Gutenberg

A full fair game there was up set; A white bull up i-pight; A great courser, with saddle and bridle With gold burnished full bright; A pair of gloves, a red gold ring, A pipe of wine, in fay: What man beareth him best, Iwis The prize shall bear away.

From Project Gutenberg

And if I find more," said Robin, "Iwis, thou shalt it forgo; For of thy spending silver, Monk!

From Project Gutenberg