Wild Hunt meaning

Wild Hunt is a folklore motif where a ghostly or supernatural group of huntsmen are seen or heard in frantic pursuit.


Wild Hunt definitions

Word backwards dliW tnuH
Part of speech The term "Wild Hunt" is a noun.
Syllabic division Wild Hunt (2 syllables: wild / hunt)
Plural The plural of the word Wild Hunt is Wild Hunts.
Total letters 8
Vogais (2) i,u
Consonants (6) w,l,d,h,n,t

The Wild Hunt: Myth and Legend

Wild Hunt is a mythological phenomenon that has been part of European folklore for centuries. This spectral procession is said to be led by a ghostly figure or deity, often associated with hunting or death. Across different cultures, the Wild Hunt takes on various forms and interpretations, but at its core, it represents a mysterious and supernatural hunt that traverses the skies or forests, accompanied by a pack of spectral hounds or otherworldly beings.

Origins and Variations

The origins of the Wild Hunt can be traced back to Germanic and Norse mythology, where it was known as "Wilde Jagd" or "Odin's Hunt," respectively. In these traditions, the hunt was often led by a god such as Odin, who would ride through the stormy night sky with his spectral army. Over time, the concept of the Wild Hunt spread throughout Europe, with different regions adding their own cultural influences and variations to the myth.

Symbolism and Interpretations

The Wild Hunt is often seen as a harbinger of war, disaster, or death. Its appearance in the night sky was believed to foretell imminent danger or upheaval. In some regions, the Wild Hunt was also associated with the changing of seasons or the passage of time. The spectral nature of the hunt and its otherworldly participants added to its mystique and fear-inducing reputation.

Modern Pop Culture

Despite its ancient origins, the Wild Hunt continues to captivate modern audiences through various forms of media, including literature, film, and video games. Authors and creators draw inspiration from the myth to create compelling stories that explore themes of fate, mortality, and the supernatural. In popular culture, the Wild Hunt remains a powerful symbol of mystery and the unknown, continuing to intrigue and inspire audiences around the world.


Wild Hunt Examples

  1. Legends speak of the Wild Hunt, a spectral procession of ghostly riders galloping across the night sky.
  2. The villagers feared the Wild Hunt, believing it to be an omen of impending disaster.
  3. In Celtic mythology, the Wild Hunt is led by a powerful figure known as Gwyn ap Nudd.
  4. Some say that hearing the sound of the Wild Hunt's horns is a sign of imminent death.
  5. The concept of the Wild Hunt is found in various European folklore traditions.
  6. The Wild Hunt is said to ride out during the winter months, especially around Christmas time.
  7. Hearing the baying of the Wild Hunt's hounds is said to be a chilling and terrifying experience.
  8. In Scandinavian folklore, the Wild Hunt is known as the Oskoreia and is led by the god Odin.
  9. The Wild Hunt is often depicted as a group of spectral hunters pursuing souls or lost spirits.
  10. Witnesses of the Wild Hunt describe the riders as being dressed in ancient armor and wielding ghostly weapons.


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  • Updated 18/04/2024 - 02:11:19