celer
[ˈkɛ.ɫɛr]
The English phrase "quick" can be translated into Latin as celer. Wiktionary also lists rapidus and properus.
Meaning: moving with speed (adj)
Ways to say it
| Latin | IPA |
|---|---|
| celer | [ˈkɛ.ɫɛr] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈt͡ʃɛː.ler] (narrow) |
| rapidus | [ˈra.pɪ.dʊs] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈraː.pi.dus] (narrow) |
| properus | [ˈprɔ.pɛ.rʊs] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈprɔː.pe.rus] (narrow) |
The term is used to describe something moving with speed.
Which one should you use?
While celer is a neutral way to describe speed, rapidus often implies a more violent, forceful or rushing kind of speed. Use properus for haste, when someone is hurrying to get something done.
How does it change in a sentence?
The feminine singular form of celer is celeris.
Did you know?
- While 'quick' in English can mean 'alive', the Latin celer strictly refers to the rate of motion and never carries the connotation of being 'living'.
Examples in context
- Viri celeriter currunt.The men run quickly.
- Equus celer in via est.The horse is quick on the road.
- Celer nuntius ad me venit.A quick messenger comes to me.
Example conversation
Gaius and Aurelia are racing to the market.
- GaiusCurre celer, Aurelia!Run quick, Aurelia!
- AureliaEgo sum celerior te.I am quicker than you.
- GaiusNon possum esse tam celer.I cannot be so quick.
- AureliaTunc ego vici!Then I won!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “quick” translations and entries celer, rapidus, properus, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries celer, properus, rapidus, CC BY-SA 4.0.
