ALLUS POLLEX Meaning and
Definition
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The term "Allus pollex" is a Latin phrase that can be translated as "thumb for all." It is a phrase used in the context of ancient Roman gladiatorial combat, specifically referring to a thumbs-up gesture made by the crowd to signify mercy to a defeated gladiator. As per ancient accounts, the phrase was shouted by the spectators to the presiding judge, indicating their desire for the defeated fighter to be spared.
In ancient Rome, gladiator fights were a popular form of entertainment and sometimes ended with one of the fighters lying on the ground, injured and defenseless. At that moment, the presiding judge would turn to the crowd to ask for their decision on whether the defeated gladiator should live or perish. If the crowd wanted the defeated gladiator to be spared, they would extend their thumbs upward, forming an "allus pollex" gesture. This gesture conveyed the request to spare the gladiator's life, and if the judge agreed, the fighter would be allowed to leave the arena.
The significance of the "Allus pollex" gesture lies in its ability to sway the final ruling on the gladiator's fate. The thumbs-up signified mercy and compassion, while a thumbs-down gesture (known as "pollice verso") would indicate the crowd's desire for the defeated gladiator to be killed.
Etymology of ALLUS POLLEX
The phrase "Allus pollex" does not have an established etymology. It appears to be a combination of two Latin words, "allus" meaning "another" or "other" and "pollex" meaning "thumb". However, this phrase is not commonly found in Latin texts, and its meaning or origin is unclear. It might be a coinage or a variation specifically used in certain fields or contexts.
