Pronunciation: [ˈɜːmɪn] (IPA) 
The word "irmin" is a tricky one to spell if you're unfamiliar with its origins. Its spelling comes from Old High German, where the "i" and "r" are pronounced separately (as in "ee-rmin") and the "m" is silent. In IPA phonetic transcription, "irmin" is spelled /ˈiːrmɪn/. This word is notable for its historical significance, as it was the name of an ancient Germanic deity associated with war, strength, and protection.
"Irmin" is a term that has various meanings across different contexts, particularly in historical and mythological contexts. The word originated from the Old High German language, an ancestor of modern German, and is often associated with ancient Germanic tribes and their beliefs.
One common interpretation of "Irmin" refers to a deity, often associated with warfare and royalty, worshipped by the ancient Germanic tribes. It is believed that Irmin was regarded as a powerful and mighty god, symbolizing strength, protection, and dominance. This interpretation is closely related to the concept of the "irminsul," a sacred pillar or tree associated with the worship of Irmin and considered a divine symbol of stability and order.
In addition to its divine connotations, "Irmin" can also denote a personal name of individuals in some historical texts. It is thought to represent qualities such as power, authority, and nobility when used as a name, reflecting the association with the god Irmin.
Furthermore, in certain etymological interpretations, "Irmin" can be understood as meaning "great" or "mighty" in a more general sense. In this context, the word can be used to describe anything or anyone that possesses extraordinary power, strength, or significance.
Overall, the term "Irmin" encompasses multiple meanings including a deity related to warfare and royalty, a personal name, and a descriptor of greatness or might. The specific interpretation largely depends on the historical, mythological, or linguistic context in which it is used.
The word "irmin" has its etymological roots in Old High German (OHG) and Old Saxon (OS). In OHG, it appears as "irmin", while in OS, it is found as "irmin or ermin". The exact origins of the word are somewhat uncertain, but it is believed to be connected to the Proto-Germanic root *erminaz, which means "great" or "exalted".
"Irmin" was also associated with a specific deity in Germanic mythology, often referred to as Irmin or Irminaz. This deity was considered a major god and associated with various traits such as strength, leadership, and sovereignty.
The word "irmin" has been used in various context and derived terms throughout history. For instance, in the medieval period, the term "Ermingerun" referred to a noble title given to high-ranking military officials.
