caelum
[ˈkae̯.ɫũː]neuter
The Latin word for sky is caelum.
caelum refers to the atmosphere above a given point, particularly as seen from Earth where the sun, moon, stars and clouds are visible. In many contexts, it also refers to the concept of the heavens or the abode of the gods.
Meaning: atmosphere above a given point, especially as visible from the surface of the Earth as the place where the sun, moon, stars, and clouds are seen (noun)
Which one should you use?
While caelum is the standard term, aether can be used when referring to the sky in more poetic or philosophical contexts.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word is a neuter noun. The genitive singular form is caeli, which is used to say "of the sky". To indicate location or direction, such as "in the sky", use the ablative singular form caelo. The neuter plural form is caela, though this is much less common in classical usage than the singular.
Did you know?
- One theory suggests caelum comes from the root *kh₂eyd-, meaning 'cut' or 'hew'. This suggests the sky was viewed as a vaulted ceiling carved out of the universe.
- The English word 'celestial' comes from caelestis, the adjective formed from caelum.
- In ancient Roman divination, caelum was conceptually the 'whole' expanse of the sky, whereas templum referred to a specific 'part' or section of it.
Examples in context
- Leva manum ad caelum.Raise your hand to the sky.This sentence shows how to use caelum to indicate a direction toward the sky.Tatoeba #6104374 by CarpeLanam, translation #46776 by fekundulo
- Caelum serenum non est.The sky is not clear.This sentence demonstrates a description of the state of the caelum.Tatoeba #12015290 by carlosalberto, translation #12015254 by carlosalberto
- Nubes per caelum volant.Clouds are flying across the sky.This sentence shows the movement of clouds through the caelum.Tatoeba #1545538 by alexmarcelo, translation #26516 by auxitt
- Caelum stellatumStarry sky
- Sublimis aetherSublime sky
- Clarus polusBright sky
- 40 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Marcus and Lucia are standing outside at night.
- MarcusAspice caelum!Look at the sky!
- LuciaCaelum est pulchrum.The sky is beautiful.
- MarcusStella in caelo lucet.A star shines in the sky.
- LuciaIta vero.Indeed it is.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “sky” translations and entries caelum, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries caelum, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
