Velum
/ˈviː.ləm/noun
A thin membrane or curtain-like structure, especially in anatomy, botany, or architecture.
Did you know?The Latin *velum* could mean a sail, curtain, or veil, and its deepest root is tied to the idea of covering something up — a perfect example of how language turns concealment into power.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*wel-
“to cover, wrap, or conceal”
Latin
Latin
velum
“a sail, curtain, awning, or veil”
Late Latin
Latin
velum
“a covering or membrane”
Old French
Old French
voile
“a veil or covering”
Middle English
English
veile
“a veil, curtain, or covering”
Modern English
English
velum
“a membrane or curtain-like anatomical structure”
Explore more surprising origins