Februum
/ˈfɛb.ru.əm/noun
An ancient Roman means of purification, especially a ritual object, offering, or ceremony used to cleanse religious pollution.
Did you know?The Roman month February was named for the Februa, purification rites traditionally performed near the end of the Roman year.
Etymological Timeline
Pre-Classical Italy
Italic
*februom
“A purification object or rite; the exact earliest source is uncertain and may involve Sabine religious terminology.”
Ancient Rome
Latin
februum
“A means of purification, including a ritual object, offering, or ceremonial cleansing.”
Ancient Rome
Latin
februāre
“To purify or ritually cleanse.”
Ancient Rome
Latin
Februārius
“The month associated with the Februa purification rites.”
Middle English
English
February
“The second month of the year, inherited through Old French and Latin.”
Modern English
English
februum
“A learned or antiquarian term for an ancient purification rite or instrument.”
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