fax
[ˈfaks]feminine
The Latin word for torch is fax. Wiktionary also lists taeda and facula.
Meaning: stick of wood, etc., with one end soaked in a flammable substance and set on fire, similarly shaped implement with a replaceable supply of flammable material (noun)
Ways to say it
| Latin | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| fax | [ˈfaks] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈfaks] (narrow) |
feminine |
| taeda | [ˈtae̯.da] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈtɛː.da] (narrow) |
feminine |
| facula | [ˈfa.kʊ.ɫa] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈfaː.ku.la] (narrow) |
feminine |
The terms for torch in Latin describe a stick of wood or a similar implement with one end soaked in a flammable substance and set on fire.
Which one should you use?
fax is the general term for a torch. In contrast, taeda specifically refers to a large wooden torch used for lighting or for use in rituals, often made of resinous wood. The word facula is the diminutive form of fax and is used to describe a little torch or a tiny light or spark.
How does it change in a sentence?
taeda is a feminine noun of the first declension. Its plural nominative form is taedae.
Did you know?
- Roman torch-bearers, or facularii, were specialized workers who provided lighting for night-time processions and theaters.
- The word taeda is not originally Latin, but is actually an ancient borrowing from the Ancient Greek word δᾰΐς.
Examples in context
- Fax magna in manu mea est.A large torch is in my hand.
- Fax lucem nocti dat.The torch gives light to the night.
- In tenebris fax necessaria est.In the darkness, a torch is necessary.
Example conversation
Claudia and Lucius are walking through a dark cave.
- ClaudiaLuci, ubi est fax tua?Lucius, where is your torch?
- LuciusHic habeo eam, Claudia.I have it here, Claudia.
- ClaudiaTene fax altius, quaeso.Hold the torch higher, please.
- LuciusIta, nunc videbis viam.Yes, now you will see the way.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “torch” translations and entries fax, taeda, facula, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries facula, fax, taeda, CC BY-SA 4.0.
