Vanir

American  

[vah-nir] / ˈvɑ nɪr /

noun

(often lowercase)

1. a race of gods, first in conflict with the Aesir, later allied with them. They function as fertility divinities and include Njord, Frey, and Freyja.

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Vanir British  

/ ˈvɑːnɪə /

noun

1. Norse myth a race of ancient gods often locked in struggle with the Aesir. The most notable of them are Njord and his children Frey and Freya

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Etymology

Origin of Vanir

< Old Norse, probably from the same root as vinr friend, Latin Venus Venus, Sanskrit vánas desire

Example Sentences

At the same time, others, like Mina Vanir, have brought up older accusations that previously received comparatively little attention.

From The Verge • Aug. 27, 2019

It began not long after the dawn of time, in a war between the gods: the Aesir fought the Vanir.

From "Norse Mythology" by Neil Gaiman

But when Mimir was not with him, Hoenir seemed unable to come to a decision, and the Vanir soon tired of this.

From "Norse Mythology" by Neil Gaiman

Frey and Freya, brother and sister, were leaders of the Vanir who would stay with the Aesir in Asgard from now on, under the terms of the truce.

From "Norse Mythology" by Neil Gaiman

The Aesir were warlike gods of battle and conquest; the Vanir were softer, brother and sister gods and goddesses who made the soils fertile and the plants grow, but none the less powerful for that.

From "Norse Mythology" by Neil Gaiman