periculum
[pɛˈriː.kʊ.ɫũː]neuter
The Latin word for danger is periculum.
periculum is a noun referring to the exposure to likely harm.
Meaning: exposure to likely harm (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
periculum is a neuter noun. Its plural form, used for the nominative or accusative cases, is pericula. If you need to express danger as an indirect object or as the object of an ablative preposition, use the form periculo. Additionally, if you wish to describe a neuter noun as being dangerous, you use the adjective periculosum.
Did you know?
- The term periculum can be used in Latin to mean 'a test' or 'a trial', not just a threat of harm.
- Ancient Romans used the same root in periculum to describe both a physical threat and a legal trial.
- The word periculum shares a root with experior, meaning 'to try' or 'to test'.
Examples in context
- Hoc in periculum vocaberis.That will put you in danger.This sentence shows how to use periculum to express being put into a state of danger.Tatoeba #11753133 by soridsolid, translation #43004 by Zifre
- Periculum periculosum est.Danger is dangerous.This sentence uses periculum to illustrate the tautological statement that danger is dangerous.Tatoeba #4438096 by alexmarcelo, translation #4427139 by Ooneykcall
- Cave! Periculum imminet!Beware! Danger is imminent!
- Accedere ad illud latibulum periculosum statim periculum adferet.Approaching that dangerous hiding place will bring immediate danger.
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Quintus and Claudia are discussing a risky journey.
- QuintusIter longum est et periculum adest.The journey is long and there is danger.
- ClaudiaCur hoc periculum times, Quinte?Why do you fear this danger, Quintus?
- QuintusLupi in silva sunt.There are wolves in the forest.
- ClaudiaNon timebo periculum.I will not fear the danger.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “danger” translations and entries periculum, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries periculum, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
