Thole means to endure. Thole is a Middle English word used before the 12th century (oftentimes as tholian). Thole also has a second definition which is used as a synonym for a peg or pin or can refer to the set of pins placed in the gunwale of a boat to keep an oar in place.
This Word Nerd post is focusing on the first definition on Thole, which is to endure. Thole, well, tholes on in modern times in a few of England’s Northern dialects. Thole’s close linguistic cousin tolerate is much more used and known in modern language, though both tolerate and thole derive from the Latin tolerare (to endure or put up with).
We shall thole as best we can with these trying times of pandemic and physical separation, for even the darkest night eventually gives way to the rising dawn of day.
Thole seems an ideal word for what we are all currently dealing with. We are all tholing the discomforts and difficulties that are occurring with Covid-19, even if we may not be tholing with patience or grace all the time. As we thole the situations being presented, let’s all try our best to remain kind and understanding since we are all dealing with this and it’s only by being in it together that we can rise above and come out better!
Namaste ~ Ella
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Lawhimsy 