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latín

Latin

noun lah-TEEN Rare
Communication Language

Origin: From Latin Latinus, relating to Latium, the region of ancient Rome.

Usage Note

Latín refers to the Latin language. The written accent on the final syllable distinguishes it from the adjective latino/latina ('Latin American' or 'of Latin origin'). Saber latín ('to know Latin') is used figuratively to mean being sharp or not easily fooled: ese no tiene un pelo de tonto, sabe latín — a fixed proverbial phrase. The plural latines is rare outside academic contexts.

Examples

"El latín es la base del español y el francés."

Natural Translation

Latin is the foundation of Spanish and French.

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