Definition: Used in Anglo-Saxon England to refer to somebody of noble birth, although usually only royal children, most frequently heirs; the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle restricts it to people born of the royal Wessex house. It saw occasional use during the Norman era, but only to note royals.
In addition Aethel was frequently incorporated into the names of noble children to indicate their high-born status, for instance Aethelred the famously Unready.
In addition Aethel was frequently incorporated into the names of noble children to indicate their high-born status, for instance Aethelred the famously Unready.
Alternate Spellings: Atheling / Etheling
Examples:
He was accompanied by Edgar the Aetheling. The son and heir of Henry I was known as William the Aetheling.
