Capital
/ˈkæp.ɪ.təl/noun
A city that serves as the seat of government; also refers to wealth or assets owned by an individual or entity.
Did you know?In ancient Rome, the term 'caput' (head) was not only about authority but also tied to the life force and personal status, linking wealth to one's very being.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*kaput
“head, chief, leader.”
Latin
Latin
caput
“head, top, or summit; a source of authority.”
Old French
Old French
capitale
“of the head; essential or principal.”
Middle English
Middle English
capital
“pertaining to the head; chief in importance.”
Modern English
English
capital
“wealth or assets; a primary city of governance.”