Latin Root: Gens

by Anonymous

Dear Latin Teacher,

What is the meaning of the Latin root gens / gen?

Thanks, Anonymous


Dear Anonymous,

The Latin noun gens, gentis means clan or tribe. The root gen- tends to mean type or kind, as in the word genus. In biological Latin, genus defines a class or family of organisms, often containing more than one species.

Hope this helps, and thanks for asking a Latin teacher.

Sincerely,

John

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