Word Archaeology: eisteddfod

This word – a combination of the Welsh “eistedd” (sit) and “fod” (be) – refers to a competitive festival for poets and musicians. The winner of the earliest of these festivals (held as early as 1176) was chosen by nobility or royalty. The modern format of the festival came about during an 18th Century revival and helped preserve Welsh language and literature. Similar events have been held in the United States, South Africa, Argentina, and Australia.

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