humilitas
The English phrase 'humility' is translated into Latin as humilitas.
humilitas is a common and general term used to express the characteristic of being humble.
Meaning: characteristic of being humble (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The noun is derived from the adjective humilis, which itself originates from humus, meaning 'ground' or 'earth'.
How does it change in a sentence?
To indicate possession or a relationship, use the genitive singular form humilitatis, which means 'of humility'.
Did you know?
- The phrase humilitas is a cognate of the word 'exhume', which literally means to take something out of the 'humus' or ground.
- In early Roman political rhetoric, humilitas could be used strategically to feign modesty to make a leader seem more relatable to the common people.
- The root word humus is also the ancestor of the English word 'human', suggesting a deep-rooted connection between being 'of the earth' and being 'human'.
Examples in context
- Humilitas est virtus magna.Humility is a great virtue.
- In hoc opere humilitas apparet.In this work, humility appears.
- Docet nos humilitas.Humility teaches us.
Example conversation
Marcus and Aurelia discuss the qualities of a good leader.
- MarcusQuid est optimum in duce?What is the best quality in a leader?
- AureliaCredo humilitatem esse necessariam.I believe humility is necessary.
- MarcusCertissime, humilitas regit mentes.Certainly, humility rules the minds.
- AureliaIta est, Marce.That is true, Marcus.
