What does lore mean?
Lore refers to a body of knowledge, wisdom, or tradition that has been preserved and passed down, often through stories, legends, customs, and beliefs. Its best-known use is in expressions such as folklore, vampire lore, or the lore of a particular place, where it suggests a rich collection of inherited narratives and cultural knowledge. The word is more evocative than information because it implies accumulated experience, mystery, and continuity with the past. Although lore can describe practical knowledge, it is especially common when referring to traditions associated with folklore, mythology, legends, or unusual subjects. In modern English, it is normally treated as an uncountable noun, though the plural lores can occasionally refer to distinct bodies of knowledge. The related verb lore is archaic or poetic and means to learn or know about something.
A body of knowledge or wisdom, especially knowledge and traditions handed down from the past; a particular collection of stories, beliefs, or information on a subject.
"The old lighthouse was surrounded by lore and stories about its ghostly keeper."
The plural lores is uncommon; lore is normally uncountable.
To learn about or come to know something.
"The scholars went to the archives to lore the history of the village."
This verb is archaic or literary and is much less common than the noun.
Lore is normally uncountable; the plural lores is rare and may refer to separate bodies of knowledge or tradition.
"The exhibition brought together lores from different seafaring communities."
The word lore preserves an ancient idea: knowledge that has been handed down, taught, and carried through generations.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
How lore is actually used
Lore is usually used for knowledge transmitted through stories, traditions, or long-standing beliefs. It often has a historical or mysterious association and is more evocative than neutral words such as information.
Easily confused with lore
Lore means knowledge, tradition, or stories, whereas law means a rule recognized and enforced by a community or government.