This is the first word of Beowulf , where translators render it variously as Lo , Listen , Hear me , and Yes . There is in fact no translation equivalent in Modern English, and using a dictionary isn't much help. It is the premise of the present book that all words in another language ought to be learned in context, and that they can be learned in this way. It is based on the notion that at least some aspects of the language can be acquired simply by reading. In the process of reading, your brain will figure out how Old English works.
Cognate recognition is a powerful strategy for learning related languages.
Click on this before you read the passage. Some words will also have links to sound or images to help you infer their meanings. A Guide to Old English, Fifth Edition . Clark Hall , J. R. 1960. A Concise Anglo-Saxon Dictionary .