Definition of the word wrought

The word "wrought" originally had a very different meaning in Old English than the one it has today. It came from the Old English verb "weorcstan," which meant "to work" or "to make." Over time, the word became associated with handcrafted and intricate objects, often made by blacksmiths or artisans, as the process of creating these items was seen as a form of "work" or "labor." By the Middle English period (1100-1500), "wrought" had taken on a more specialized meaning, referring specifically to objects or materials that had been shaped or formed by these skilled craftsmen. This sense of the word is still evident in its modern usage, where it often implies that something has been carefully created or crafted, as opposed to being mass-produced or machine-made. Some examples of how "wrought" is used today include: - "The iron gates of the old castle were wrought with intricate patterns and designs." - "The silver vase on the table was a wrought piece, crafted by hand to perfection." - "The textile artist created a wrought tapestry that showcased intricate patterns and designs." Thus, while the root meaning of "wrought" continues to evolve and change over time, it remains a powerful and evocative word that speaks to the importance of skilled craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the artful creation of beautiful objects and works of art.