A Week of Seven Days: Their English Names
In the rhythm of daily life, the seven days of the week shape our routines, from the quiet start of Monday to the gentle wrap-up of Sunday. Each day carries a unique name in English, a blend of history, culture, and the passage of time. Let’s walk through them one by one. Monday marks the first day of the workweek for many. Derived from Old English “Mōnandæg,” meaning “Moon’s day,” it’s often linked to the moon in various mythologies. On Monday, people jot down to-do lists, sip their first coffee of the week, and ease into the rhythm of tasks ahead. Tuesday comes next, a day rooted in Old English “Tīwesdæg,” honoring the god Tiw, associated with law and war. It’s the second full day of work for most, a time when focus sharpens—meetings are scheduled, deadlines draw closer, and the week starts to gain momentum.By Wednesday, the midpoint arrives. Its name, “Wōdnesdæg” in Old English, pays homage to Odin, the Allfather in Norse mythology. Colloquially called “hump day,” it’s that point where the week feels halfway done, a small victory to push through and look ahead to the weekend.
Thursday follows, named after Thor, the Norse god of thunder (“Þunresdæg” in Old English). By Thursday, the end of the workweek is in sight. Projects near completion, plans for Saturday start to take shape, and there’s a subtle energy in the air—anticipation lingering just out of reach. Friday needs no introduction. From Old English “Frīgedæg,” after Frigg, the goddess of love and fertility, it’s the day when relief sets in. Offices buzz with lighter chatter, weekend plans are confirmed, and the phrase “TGIF” (Thank God It’s Friday) echoes through conversations, a universal sigh of release. Saturday is the heart of the weekend. Its name, “Sæturnesdæg,” traces back to Saturn, the Roman god of agriculture. It’s a day for sleeping in, exploring, or simply doing nothing—no alarms, no meetings, just time to breathe. Whether hiking a trail, visiting a market, or binge-watching a show, Saturday belongs entirely to choice.Finally, Sunday wraps up the week. Old English “Sunnandæg,” “Sun’s day,” reflects its connection to the sun. It’s a day of balance: some sleep late, some attend services, others tidy the house or prepare meals for the week ahead. By evening, there’s a quiet pause, a moment to reflect before Monday comes around again.
These seven names—Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday—are more than just labels. They’re the steps of a weekly dance, guiding us through work and rest, routine and reprieve, each with its own story and place in the cycle of time.