Anglo-Norman

language

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June 18, 2026

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Anglo-Norman refers to the Normans who settled in England after the Norman Conquest in 1066, and the form of Anglo-French they spoke. This linguistic influence significantly altered the English language, introducing many French words that often carry more formal or sophisticated connotations in modern English.12

For about two centuries following the conquest, vernacular English largely disappeared from written records, with French dominating literature, law, and administration. This period, known as Middle English, saw the development of distinct dialects and the integration of French vocabulary and spelling conventions into English. While Anglo-Norman was a prominent literary language in England from the 12th to 14th centuries, the Hundred Years' War led to an increased use of English.234

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French literature
The origins of the French language
From the last one stemmed Anglo-Norman, the French used alongside English in Britain, especially among the upper classes, from even before the Norman Conquest (1066) until well into the 14th century. Each dialect had its own literature. But, for various reasons, the status of Francien increased until it achieved dominance…
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From the last one stemmed Anglo-Norman, the French used alongside English in Britain, especially among the upper classes, from even before the Norman Conquest (1066) until well into the 14th century. Each dialect had its own literature. But, for various reasons, the status of Francien increased until it achieved dominance…
Read More