Background Notes - Common Medieval Phrases

Common medieval phrases that tend to pop up in medieval/fantasy settings, especially in some of the later variations of Arthurian lore.

Anon, good sir/lady: In a moment, ma'am/sir

A knight without reproach: A great knight without scandals attached to his name

A plague upon thee!/Beshrew thee!/Fie upon thee!: Screw you!

At thy command / Thy will is my law.: I'll do what you say (formal)

By my troth: I swear

By hook or by crook: By any means necessary

Fare thee well; I must away!: Goodbye, I've got to go

God's body!/Odds bodikins!: Mild exclamation/swearing

God’s wounds!/Zounds!: Strong exclamation/swearing

God give you good den: Good Evening

Good morrow: Good morning

Good day: Good afternoon

Go thy way/Godspeed thee: Goodbye

Grammercy: Thank you

Hail and well met!: Hello, nice to see you! 

Have at thee!: Let's fight!

He hath done me great dishonor: He insulted me!

How now? How fare thee?: How are you?

How stands the hour?: What time is it?

I am at thy service: I'm here to help

I be parched: I'm thirsty

I crave a boon: I want a favor (often asked of sovereign)

I crave thy pardon/I cry your mercy: Sorry, I beg your pardon

I shall see you anon: I'll see you later

I shall prove myself in arms: I'll prove my greatness through combat

I take up thy challenge: I accept your duel

How now?: What's going on?

My heart is thine: I love you

My peerless paramour: My matchless lover

Of a Good Stomach: Brave

Peace by upon you: Hello, nice to meet you (formal)

Pledge one's troth: Solemnly swear

Plight my troth: Propose marriage

Pray, proceed: Go on

Prithee or Pray: Please

Prithee, attend me!: Please wait on me

Thou art most gracious: How kind of you

Thou dost me great honor: Thank you (formal)

Though I perish for love...: I'm in love (hyperbolic)

Throw down the gauntlet: Issued a challenge

Well met!: Nice to meet you

What be thy tide?: What's your name?

What ho!: Hello there!

Whither be the privies? Where is the restroom?