Latin Abbreviation: SPQR

by Steve
(San Francisco)

Dear Latin Teacher,

There are a few different versions of this famous phrase spelled out fully in Latin floating around the internet; would you please let me know what is the most commonly accepted Latin phrase and English translation?

Thank you, Steve


Dear Steve,

This Latin abbreviation stands for Senatus Populusque Romanus, and it means the Senate and the Roman People.

Even today you will find this abbreviation on public buildings in Rome. It is even on many of the manhole covers.

The Q stands for the enclitic Latin word -que, meaning and. The R absolutely stands for Romanus and not Romae.

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

Sincerely,

John

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