incubus
[ˈɪŋ.kʊ.bʊs]masculine
The English word nightmare can be translated into Latin as incubus. Wiktionary also lists incubō.
Meaning: dream (noun)
Ways to say it
| Latin | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| incubus | [ˈɪŋ.kʊ.bʊs] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈiŋ.ku.bus] (narrow) |
masculine |
| incubō | masculine |
Which one should you use?
incubus is the masculine noun, while incubō is a verb form.
How does it change in a sentence?
incubō is the first-person singular present indicative active form of the verb, translating to 'I lie upon'.
Did you know?
- The word incubus shares its root with the Latin word for 'incubator', as both involve the act of lying upon something to keep it warm.
- Ancient Romans believed the feeling of pressure on the chest during a nightmare was caused by an incubus physically sitting on the sleeper.
- The Latin verb incubō can mean 'to brood over' something, reflecting a sense of obsession or deep preoccupation.
Examples in context
- Eram inter somnia exitialia et vesaniam nocturnam.I was amidst deadly dreams and night madness.
- Incubus erat mihi nocte.I had a nightmare last night.
Example conversation
Marcus and Claudia are talking in a quiet bedroom at night.
- MarcusCur nunc timere incipis, Claudia?Why are you starting to be afraid now, Claudia?
- ClaudiaIncubus mihi erat.I had a nightmare.
- MarcusMarcus tecum est.Marcus is with you.
- ClaudiaGratias tibi ago.Thank you.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “nightmare” translations and entries incubus, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
