tēlum
neuter
The Latin word for weapon is tēlum. Wiktionary also lists arma.
Meaning: instrument of attack or defense in combat (noun)
Ways to say it
| Latin | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| tēlum | neuter | |
| arma | [ˈar.ma] (Classical Latin, narrow) [ˈar.ma] (narrow) |
neuter, plural |
The term refers to an instrument used for attack or defense in combat. While it can describe literal combat implements, the form arma is often used metaphorically to refer to tools or means rather than literal weapons.
Which one should you use?
Use tēlum when referring to a single weapon, such as a spear or a single projectile. Use the plural form arma when referring to a collection of weapons or arms in general.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form arma has several inflected cases: the genitive plural is armōrum (of weapons), and the ablative plural is armīs, which is used to indicate the instrument or means, such as 'with weapons'.
Did you know?
- The word arma is a distant linguistic relative of the Sanskrit word ṛtá, which means 'order' or 'agreement'.
- The Latin phrase arma is the opening word of Virgil's 'Aeneid', where it is used to establish the theme of war and destiny.
- Because arma referred to a collection of gear, a Roman soldier would use this word to describe his entire kit, including his shield and armor, not just his offensive weapon.
Examples in context
- Legatus habet multa arma.The general has many weapons.
- Peritia in armis magna est.Skill in weapons is great.
- Hostes telis pugnabant.The enemy fought with projectiles.
- Tēlum est paratum.The weapon is ready.
- Hoc tēlum valde validum est.This weapon is very strong.
- Gladius est tēlum militare.The sword is a military weapon.
Example conversation
A soldier is preparing for a training exercise.
- ClaudiaQuinte, habēsne tēlum?Quintus, do you have a weapon?
- QuintusIta, hoc tēlum habeō.Yes, I have this weapon.
- ClaudiaBene, nunc exercēmus.Good, now we practice.
- QuintusParatus sum.I am ready.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “weapon” translations and entries arma, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries arma, CC BY-SA 4.0.
