daemon
[ˈdae̯.moːn]masculine
The English phrase "demon" can be translated into Latin using daemon or larva.
Meaning: evil being (noun)
Ways to say it
| Latin | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| daemon | [ˈdae̯.moːn] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈdɛː.mon] (narrow) |
masculine |
| larva | [ˈɫaːr.wa] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈlar.va] (narrow) |
The terms are used to describe evil beings or malevolent spirits.
Which one should you use?
While daemon is a general term for a demon, larva refers to a more specific kind of entity, such as a ghost, a terrifying spirit or a predatory one.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word daemon is a masculine noun. Its genitive singular form, meaning "of a demon", is daemonis. The word larva has the plural form larvae to mean "demons".
Did you know?
- The Latin word larva is the direct ancestor of the English word 'larva'. In Latin, it described a spirit wearing a mask or a ghost, reflecting the idea of a deceptive outer shell.
- In its original Greek context, the word that became the Latin daemon did not necessarily mean an evil being, but could refer to a helpful, protective spirit or a divine dispenser of fate.
- While larva means a demon or ghost, its close relative Lar refers to a benevolent guardian deity of the Roman household.
Examples in context
- Daemon sum.I'm a demon.This sentence is useful for stating your identity as a daemon.Tatoeba #5069268 by alexmarcelo, translation #5069222 by al_ex_an_der
- Daemon non sum.I'm not a demon.This sentence is useful for denying that you are a daemon.Tatoeba #13820436 by rul, translation #12927463 by rul
- Larva mortua est.The demon is dead.This sentence is useful for describing a dead larva.Tatoeba #8800479 by shekitten, translation #3762148 by Hybrid
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Claudia and Lucius are discussing a frightening statue in a temple.
- ClaudiaVide! Daemon in statua est.Look! There is a demon in the statue.
- LuciusNon timeo hunc daemonem.I am not afraid of this demon.
- ClaudiaSed daemon nos videt!But the demon sees us!
- LuciusCurre, Claudia, fugiamus a daemone!Run, Claudia, let us flee from the demon!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “demon” translations and entries daemon, larva, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries daemon, larva, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
