Egyptian edit

Etymology edit

Most likely from the infinitive of ꜣwj-jb (to be happy); however, some instead suggest a derivation directly from ꜣwt (length) +‎ jb (heart) in a direct genitive construction. The former would imply the noun is masculine; the latter, feminine. It is attested a few times modified by (apparently masculine) nb, suggesting that the former is the case, but the omission of feminine adjective endings is also not unusual.

Pronunciation edit

Noun edit

Aw
t
ib

?

  1. happiness, joy

Alternative forms edit

Noun edit

Aw
ib
 

?

  1. a pectoral amulet in the form of the hieroglyphs
    Aw
    ib
    ligatured, presumably intended to bring the wearer happiness [Greco-Roman Period]

Usage notes edit

These amulets are attested long before the word for them appears in the textual record; older instances of the word have apparently not survived.

Alternative forms edit

Noun edit

Awwt
Y1
Z2
ib
Z1
N33C
Z2ss

?

  1. realgar (red arsenic sulfide) [since the New Kingdom]

Usage notes edit

Before the Late Period this term is found almost exclusively in medical texts (Papyrus Chester Beatty V and Papyrus Ebers).

Alternative forms edit

References edit