Roma
/ˈroʊ.mə/noun
The Italian and Latin name for the city of Rome, the historic capital of the Roman world.
Did you know?Ancient Romans linked Roma to Romulus, but historians generally regard that connection as a later foundation myth rather than the name’s proven origin.
Etymological Timeline
Before 3rd Century BCE
Pre-Latin
Roma
“An ancient place-name whose ultimate origin is uncertain; it may predate Latin and has no securely established translation.”
3rd–2nd Century BCE
Latin
Rōma
“The name used in Latin for the city of Rome.”
1st Century BCE
Ancient Greek
Rhṓmē
“The Greek form of Rome, also associated in Greek usage with strength or power, though this may reflect reinterpretation rather than the original source.”
1st Century BCE–1st Century CE
Latin
Rōmānus
“Roman; belonging to or originating from Rome.”
Medieval Period
Italian
Roma
“The inherited Italian name for Rome.”
Modern English
English
Roma
“A proper name used for Rome, especially in historical, Italian, and cultural contexts.”