10 Latin Roots in 5 English Words

by Anna
(USA)

Dear Latin Teacher,

What are the Latin roots of the words viaduct, equanimity,
jurisdiction, sacrilege, and grandiloquence? Thank you.

Sincerely,

Anna


Dear Anna,

The list of Latin root words you have requested proves how powerful Latin is for building advanced English vocabulary. Every word you asked for contains two Latin roots!

viaduct: Via = road; duct is from the verb meaning to lead. So a viaduct leads a road over otherwise impassable ground, such as a wide valley.

equanimity: aequus = even, equal; animus = mind. So to have equanimity is be of a calm, balanced, even-keeled mind.

jurisdiction: jus, iuris = right or law; diction is from the Latin word meaning to say (dico, dicere, dixi, dictus). So the root meaning of jurisdiction is a pronouncement of law.

sacrilege: sacer, sacra, sacrum is a Latin adjective meaning sacred; legere is a Latin verb meaning to choose, select. The root meaning of sacrilege is to take (i.e. steal) what is sacred.

grandiloquence: loquor, loqui, locutus sum = to speak. Grandiloquence means grand or lofty speaking.

Follow the links for more information right here at vocabulary-lesson-plans.com.

Thanks for asking a Latin teacher,

Sincerely,

John

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