“Aroint” appears in Shakespeare (“Aroint thee, witch!”) and other Early Modern texts as a forceful exorcism or rejection. In poetry, it functions as a magical or moral expulsion, often directed at spirits, vices, or unwelcome figures. Its abruptness and obscurity enhance its performative power, making it effective in dramatic monologues or invocations seeking to banish darkness or deceit.

“Aroint” is a forceful imperative meaning “begone!” or “away with you!”, famously used by Shakespeare in “Macbeth” (“Aroint thee, witch!”). Its etymology is uncertain, but it likely stems from a nautical or dialectal command of expulsion. In poetry, it serves as a performative utterance of banishment—directed at spirits, vices, or intruders—and carries ritualistic or magical weight. Its abrupt consonants and single syllable make it ideal for dramatic exclamations that demand immediate action or create sonic shock. Modern usage is almost exclusively literary or allusive. Related terms include “avaunt,” “begone,” and “hence,” but “aroint” has a uniquely archaic, almost incantatory flavor.