caepa
[ˈkae̯.pa]feminine
The Latin word for "onion" is caepa. Wiktionary also lists cēpa.
Meaning: bulb (noun)
Ways to say it
| Latin | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| caepa | [ˈkae̯.pa] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈt͡ʃɛː.pa] (narrow) |
feminine |
| cēpa | feminine |
The word refers to the bulb of an onion.
How does it change in a sentence?
caepa is the feminine nominative singular subject form. To indicate possession or "of the onion", use the genitive singular form caepae. When onions are the direct object of a verb, use the accusative plural form caepas.
Did you know?
- Pliny the Elder, a Roman naturalist, documented several 'magical' uses for the caepa, including using it to treat bites from snakes.
- In Roman culture, onions were associated with the lower classes and were sometimes viewed with disdain by the elite.
Example sentences for Latin are not verified yet.
Example conversation
Claudia and Gaius are preparing a meal together.
- ClaudiaGai, ubi est caepa?Gaius, where is the onion?
- GaiusIn mensa est, Claudia.It is on the table, Claudia.
- ClaudiaGratias, nunc caepam caedo.Thanks, now I am cutting the onion.
- GaiusCave ne lacrimes!Be careful not to cry!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “onion” translations and entries caepa, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
