Latin in Modern English

You may be surprised by how many Latin words have crept into the everyday English with virtually no changes in spelling. However, the original meaning may have been partially lost or gone through some interesting twists.

Here is a short list of Latin words you probably have used almost daily, with the original and modern meaning:

Acumen**

• Latin: a point, sting

• Modern English: a sharp intellect

Alibi**

• Latin: another place

• Modern English: the place where the alleged criminal claims to be at the time of the crime.

Arena**

• Latin: sand, required to soak up the blood in the Roman Colosseum, after sanguinary gladiatorial battles

• Modern English: a large venue mainly used for entertainment and sporting events

Bonus**

• Latin: good or well-intentioned

• Modern English: extra payment on top of a salary; a reward for good performance

Formula**

• Latin: a procedural rule, a paradigm or a legal system

• Modern English: a mathematical rule or list of ingredients

Caveat**

• Latin: to be on one’s guard against someone or something

• Modern English: a warning, or a caution
  Forum**

• Latin: a court for market or for debating public affairs

• Modern English: a place or an event to exchange ideas

Post Mortem**

• Latin: after death

• Modern English: an examination of a body after death

Trivia**

• Latin: a junction where three roads meet

• Modern English: unimportant matters or details

Video**

• Latin: I see

• Modern English: an audiovisual piece of media

What is your favourite Latin word in modern English? Leave your comment below.