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Where does the word "august" come from? It comes from Latin augustus, passing through French before entering English (1660s).
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Where does the word "august" come from? It comes from Latin augustus, passing through French before entering English (1660s).
August’s story begins in Latin: augustus meant “venerable, majestic.” From 'augere', to increase; the title given to Octavian in 27 BC. By 1500s, the word had taken hold in French as auguste. French 'auguste' is recorded from 1407; the Latin source may originally have meant 'consecrated by augurs'. It reached English by 1660s as august. The month August is named after the emperor. Today, august means inspiring respect.
- Stage 1 · Latin · ancient augustus "venerable, majestic", from 'augere', to increase; the title given to Octavian in 27 BC.
- Stage 2 · French · 1500s auguste "majestic", French 'auguste' is recorded from 1407; the Latin source may originally have meant 'consecrated by augurs'.
- Stage 3 · English · 1660s august "majestic", the month August is named after the emperor.