frīgidus
The English word "cold" can be translated into Latin as frīgidus or algidus.
Meaning: having a low temperature (adj)
Ways to say it
| Latin | IPA |
|---|---|
| frīgidus | |
| algidus | [ˈaɫ.ɡɪ.dʊs] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈal̠ʲ.d͡ʒi.dus] (narrow) |
Both frīgidus and algidus are adjectives used to describe something having a low temperature. If you wish to refer to the sensation or state of coldness as a noun, use frigor.
Which one should you use?
frīgidus is the standard adjective used for weather or physical objects that are cold or chilly. In contrast, algidus is often used in a medical context, specifically to describe a person feeling cold or experiencing a chill. To express the concept of "coldness" or "chill" as a noun rather than an adjective, use frigor.
Related words
Did you know?
- In Latin poetry, words for 'cold' like frīgidus were frequently used as metaphors for emotional distance or a lack of passion in love.
- While English uses 'cold' to describe both a low temperature and a respiratory illness, a Roman would never use frīgidus to describe being sick with a common cold.
Examples in context
- Temperatura aquae nimium frigida est.The water temperature is very cold.
- Illa domus semper frigida est.That house is always cold.
- Hodie in horto frigus est.It is cold in the garden today.
- Algēns sum!I am freezing!
- Frigidior hic locus est quam arbitrabar.This place is colder than I thought.
- Ventus frīgidus est.The wind is cold.
Example conversation
Julia and Marcus are talking about the winter weather.
- JuliaHodie dies frīgidus est.Today is a cold day.
- MarcusIta, frīgus sentiō.Yes, I feel the cold.
- JuliaVisne vīnum calidum?Do you want warm wine?
- MarcusVolō, grātiās, Iūlia.Yes, thank you, Julia.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “cold” translations and entries algidus, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
