Priapeia
/praɪˈeɪ.piə/noun
A collection of short Latin poems associated with Priapus, often obscene or sexually explicit.
Did you know?The Priapeia are named for Priapus, the Greek-Roman fertility god whose image was often placed in gardens as both a charm and a warning, blending protection, sexuality, and intimidation.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
Πρίαπος (Priapos)
“Priapus, a rustic fertility god associated with gardens, livestock, and obscene humor”
Classical Latin
Latin
Priapus
“The Roman name of the fertility god”
Late Classical Latin
Latin
Priapeia
“Poems or verses concerning Priapus; especially the collection of Priapic epigrams”
Middle English
English
priapee / priapeia
“A literary reference to Priapus or Priapic verse”
Modern English
English
Priapeia
“A collection of Priapus poems, especially the Latin Priapeia”
Explore more surprising origins