Runic Alphabet
A clear rune alphabet chart (Elder Futhark) with names and short meanings.
This page lists the runic symbols many people search as the rune alphabet, runes alphabet, Viking alphabet, or Old Norse alphabet.
Runic alphabet
https://www.runictranslator.com/
What Is the Runic Alphabet?
The runic alphabet is a set of letters called runes. The most common chart online is Elder Futhark, with 24 runic symbols.
Rune shapes use straight lines because they were often carved into wood, stone, or metal.
Tip: use the buttons above to download the full rune table as a PDF or image.
History
Runes appear early in the first centuries CE and spread across Northern Europe. Many researchers think the system was influenced by alphabets used further south, then adapted for Germanic languages.
During the Viking Age, later rune sets developed. People often say Viking alphabet for those later sets. For Old Norse writing, one well-known set is Younger Futhark.
Uses
Historically, runes were used in practical contexts.
- Inscriptions: memorial stones and carved messages.
- Ownership marks: names and signs on everyday objects.
- Trade and notes: short written messages on wood and other materials.
- Decoration: rune letters used in art and crafts.
Why learn runes?
Many people study the runic alphabet to understand language history and read old inscriptions. This table is a simple reference for rune names and meanings.