POSIE RING Meaning and
Definition
-
A posie ring is a type of ring that originated in the 16th and 17th centuries. The term "posie" is derived from the Middle English word "posy," which means a short rhyme or verse of poetry. These rings were also known as "poesy" or "poe rings".
Posie rings were typically made of gold or silver and featured a simple band design. What set them apart from other rings of the time was the inclusion of a short inscription or motto engraved on the inner or outer surface. The inscriptions were often romantic or sentimental in nature, containing poetic verses, phrases, or significant dates. These words conveyed a meaningful message or sentiment to the recipient, making posie rings popular tokens of love, friendship, or betrothal.
Posie rings gained popularity during the Renaissance period and continued to be cherished throughout the following centuries. They were treasured as personal and meaningful keepsakes, often exchanged between lovers, friends, or family members on special occasions such as anniversaries, engagements, or weddings.
Today, posie rings are considered valuable historical artifacts and can be found in museums, private collections, and antique jewelry stores. While the original meaning and significance of posie rings may have evolved over time, they continue to represent sentiment, love, and the enduring nature of human connections.
Etymology of POSIE RING
The word "posie ring" is derived from the Middle English word "posy" or "poesy", which comes from the Anglo-Norman French word "poesie". This French term ultimately traces back to the Latin word "poesis", meaning "poetry" or "creation". Posie rings were named as such due to the poetic or romantic inscriptions usually found on the inner side of the band. These rings were popular during the medieval and Renaissance periods, primarily in England, and often featured engraved messages or poems expressing love, devotion, or religious sentiments.
