Spīritus Sānctus
The English phrase "holy spirit" is translated into Latin as Spīritus Sānctus.
In a Christian context, this term refers to the person of the Holy Trinity.
Meaning: Christian: person of the Holy Trinity (name)
Did you know?
- The word spīritus shares the same root as the English word 'spirit' and the Latin word for 'breath', reflecting the ancient belief that breath and soul are the same thing.
- While sānctus means 'holy', in early Roman law it referred to something that was 'set apart' or 'forbidden' for common use, not just something divine.
- In many liturgical-style Latin texts, the 'S' in Sānctus might be written as a long 's' (ſ), which can look remarkably like an 'f' to an English speaker.
Examples in context
- Spiritus Sanctus, dona nobis pacemHoly Spirit, grant us peace
- Spīritus Sānctus nos regit.The Holy Spirit guides us.
Example conversation
Two people are discussing their faith in a church.
- LuciusCredisne in Spīritum Sānctum?Do you believe in the Holy Spirit?
- LuciaIta, Luci, in eum crēdō.Yes, Lucius, I believe in Him.
- LuciusIlle nōbīs sapientiam et pācem dat.He gives us wisdom and peace.
- LuciaVērē beneficium est, Luci.That is truly a blessing, Lucius.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “holy spirit” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
