Centurion
/sɛnˈtʊə.ri.ən/noun
A centurion was an officer in the Roman army, commanding a century of soldiers.
Did you know?Centurions were not just military leaders; they were also responsible for the discipline and morale of their men, often leading them into battle with a unique blend of fear and loyalty.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*ḱent-
“to cut or to divide, suggesting a division or group.”
Latin
Latin
centurio
“a leader of a hundred, derived from 'centum' meaning hundred.”
Late Latin
Late Latin
centurionem
“the accusative case of centurio, indicating a centurion.”
Old French
Old French
centurien
“the term adopted from Latin, referring to a Roman officer.”
Middle English
Middle English
centurien
“the term used in Medieval texts to denote a Roman military officer.”
Modern English
English
centurion
“the established term for a Roman army officer, still retaining its historical significance.”
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