About
This section contains a growing list of English definitions for Latin terminology which frequently come up when studying the language, history, and archaeology of classical Rome. Each term has a concise dictionary definition - as well as a longer researched entry which provides historical context and explains some of the ambiguity and difficulties surrounding the translation of classical Latin into modern English. Bibliographies with links are provided under each entry for those who wish to explore further, as well as links to the corresponding Perseus Digital Library Latin word study tool entry. Each term is organized into a vocabulary category corresponding to its general use and meaning (see below).
While plenty of websites exist providing quick dictionary definitions for Latin terminology, few provide context for how a term would have been used or understood in antiquity - even fewer provide any explanation for the ambiguity of certain terms or the multiple meanings of others. As with any ancient language, Latin cannot always be directly translated into modern English. There is often not a one-to-one English translation for Latin terms, despite the way many Latin dictionaries and Latin 101 classes may make it seem. With this in mind, we thought it necessary to create a resource that addresses these factors while still trying to provide the best definition possible for Latin terminology one might encounter when studying the classical Roman world.
The creation of this resource is an ongoing project, and it will be added to periodically. If you have suggestions for terminology that should be added, or have any questions about any existing entries, feel free to contact the author of this section at jaybrodzeller@gmail.com
Vocabulary Categories
Jay Brodzeller, 2022
Last Updated April 21, 2022