Etymology Map
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Genial

2 stages from Latin to English.

Today it means friendly and cheerful

Where does the word "genial" come from? It comes from Latin genialis, adopted directly into English (1560s).

1
Stage 1 of 2
genialis
Latin · ancient
"festive, of the genius"
from 'genius', guardian spirit
2
Stage 2 of 2
genial
English · 1560s
"nuptial; cheerful"
the sense 'friendly' dates from the 1700s
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Read the full story

Genial’s story begins in Latin: genialis meant “festive, of the genius.” From 'genius', guardian spirit. It reached English by 1560s as genial. The sense 'friendly' dates from the 1700s. Today, genial means friendly and cheerful.