iwis

or y·wis

[ ih-wis ]

adverb

, Obsolete.

1. certainly.

iwis

/ ɪˈwɪs /

adverb

1. an archaic word for certainly

Word History and Origins

Origin of iwis¹

First recorded before 900; Middle English, adverb use of neuter of Old English gewiss (adjective) “certain”; cognate with Dutch gewis, German gewiss “certain, certainly”; akin to wit ²; y-

Word History and Origins

Origin of iwis¹

C12: from Old English gewiss certain

Example Sentences

Iwis, Ywis, i-wis′, adv. certainly—sometimes ignorantly written I wis, as if 'I know.'

From Project Gutenberg

One whyle then the page he went,115 Another whyle he ranne; Till he had oretaken king Estmere, Iwis he never blanne.

From Project Gutenberg

But he pulled out a bright browne sword, And dryed it on the grasse, And soe fast he smote at John Steward,95 Iwis he never rest.

From Project Gutenberg

Ure feder þet in heovene is, Þet is al soþ ful iwis!

From Project Gutenberg

It should be his: All that belonged to the first Edward "And if he say me, Nay!; iwis I will get it with dint of sword!"

From Project Gutenberg