Abstract

Abstract The core methods of historical comparative linguistics are introduced, by which language families that have developed from a common ancestor can be established. The method of comparative reconstruction is explained. The methodology is demonstrated by some examples illustrating very early contact between Germani and other peoples in continental Europe. In addition to their value in illustrating processes of historical language change, examples such as rich, iron, and leech (probably ultimately from Celtic) and pound (in weight), kettle, and cheap (ultimately from Latin) are revealing for what they suggest about early social and cultural contacts.

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