rune-risting

English

Etymology

(This etymology is missing or incomplete. Please add to it, or discuss it at the Etymology scriptorium. Particularly: “? modern use of Old Norse rista = to carve”)

Noun

rune-risting (countable and uncountable, plural rune-ristings)

1. A runic inscription.
   • 1866 December 29, The Spectator, London, page 1469, column 2:

     To the untiring zeal, and energy, and tact, and patriotism of Mr. Stephens we are therefore most deeply indebted for his skill in deciphering these old “Rune-Ristings.”

   • 1884, George Stephens, Handbook of the Old-northern Runic Monuments of Scandinavia and England, page 246:

     Whatever the staves mean, this is the only such secret rune-risting yet found.

2. The carving of runes.
   • 1957, Brian Branston, Lost Gods of England, page 50:

     [A]nd the purpose of rune-risting was more often than not to do with soothsaying or sorcery.