classis
[ˈkɫas.sɪs]
The English word "class" can be translated into Latin as classis.
In Latin, classis can describe a class as a collective unit, but its primary meaning often refers to a fleet or a group of ships. It is used to denote a group, collection, category or set sharing characteristics or attributes.
Meaning: group, collection, category or set sharing characteristics or attributes (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun classis is a first-declension feminine noun. Its nominative plural form is classes.
Did you know?
- The term classis was used in the Roman census to group citizens by their wealth. Those in the highest classis were the only ones eligible for certain prestigious military roles.
- The root of classis is actually the act of shouting. It stems from a word meaning 'to call' or 'to shout', originally referring to people being called out for service.
- In a Roman legal context, a classis could refer to a specific division of the voting assembly. This meant the 'class' determined how much political power a person held.
Examples in context
- Haec classis in decem minutis finiet.This class will be over in ten minutes.This sentence shows how to use classis to indicate the end of a time period.Tatoeba #7044224 by CarpeLanam, translation #58588 by CK
- Tota classis tacebat.The whole class was quiet.This sentence demonstrates the use of classis to describe a group being quiet.Tatoeba #6866377 by CarpeLanam, translation #62892 by CK
- Haec est classis nova.This is a new class.
Example conversation
Julia and Gaius are discussing a collection of ancient coins.
- JuliaQuid est haec classis nummorum?What is this class of coins?
- GaiusSunt nummi ex urbe Roma.They are coins from the city of Rome.
- JuliaHaec classis rara est.This category is rare.
- GaiusIta, Julia, optima est.Yes, Julia, it is the best.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry classis, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries classis, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
