amīca
The English word 'girlfriend' can be translated into Latin in several ways, most commonly as amīca. Wiktionary also lists amātrix and amīcula.
Meaning: a female partner in a romantic relationship (noun)
Ways to say it
| Latin | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| amīca | ||
| amātrix | ||
| amīcula | ||
| amāns | ||
| puella | [puˈɛl.la] (Classical Latin, narrow) [puˈɛl.la] (narrow) |
feminine |
In Latin, the term for a girlfriend depends on the specific nature of the relationship you wish to describe. amīca is a general term for a girlfriend, while amātrix specifically implies a lover or a woman involved in a sexual relationship. Other terms include amīcula, amāns and the feminine puella.
What does it mean word for word?
The word amīca is derived from amāre (to love), essentially meaning a beloved female companion.
Which one should you use?
The word amīca can mean both 'girlfriend' and 'female friend' depending on the context. In contrast, amātrix specifically implies a lover or a woman involved in a sexual relationship.
How does it change in a sentence?
Amīca is a feminine first-declension noun, and its plural is amīcae.
Did you know?
- The term amīcula is a diminutive form of amīca, which could be used to express endearment or to describe a 'little' girlfriend.
- The word amātrix shares the same root as the English word 'amatory', which relates to romantic or sexual love.
Examples in context
- Amīca mea nōn es.You're not my girlfriend.This sentence shows how to use amīca in a negative statement.Tatoeba #9387468 by harans, translation #2545042 by CK
- Num amīca Thōmae es?Are you really Tom's girlfriend?This sentence uses amīca to ask a question about a relationship.Tatoeba #11129150 by alexmarcelo, translation #4015748 by CK
- Amīcam meam gubernāre docuī.I taught my girlfriend how to drive.This sentence shows the use of the accusative form of amīca as an object.Tatoeba #11155083 by alexmarcelo, translation #1931921 by Spamster
Example conversation
Lucius introduces Julia to his friend.
- LuciusHaec est amīca mea, Julia.This is my girlfriend, Julia.
- JuliaSalvē, amīce!Greetings, friend!
- LuciusJulia est optima amīca.Julia is a wonderful girlfriend.
- JuliaVōs duo valdē pulchrī estis.You two are very beautiful.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “girlfriend” translations and entries puella, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
