(Norse mythology) race of ancient gods sometimes in conflict with the Aesir

A race of gods in Norse Mythology that preceded the Aesir.

Vanir is the name of one of the two groups of gods in Norse mythology, the other and more well known being the Æsir. The name is perhaps from the Proto-Indo-European root *wen- "to strive, win", cognate to Venus (compare Vanadis), Wynn (Proto-Germanic *Wanizaz), archaic Greek Wanax.

tribe of elder kin governing organic existence and processes.