The word "Comitia" is spelled phonetically as kəʊˈmɪʃə, reflecting its Latin origins. The IPA transcription breaks down each sound component of the word to help with pronunciation. The "k" sound is represented by the letter "c", while the "əʊ" diphthong is signified by the letters O and I. The "m" and "t" sounds are straightforward, while the "ɪ" sound is represented by the letter "i". Lastly, the "sh" sound is represented by the letters S and H, making up the final syllable of the word.
Comitia is a Latin term that refers to the assembly of citizens in ancient Rome that had the power to make decisions and pass laws. This term specifically refers to the public assemblies in the Roman Republic and early Roman Empire.
In the traditional Roman political system, the Comitia were the principal legislative and electoral assemblies. They represented the highest level of popular assembly, where Roman citizens, grouped by their social status, would gather to vote on proposed legislation, elect magistrates, and consider important matters of state.
There were several types of Comitia, each with its own function and composition. The Comitia Curiata, for example, was the oldest assembly and allowed the patrician class to participate in decision-making. The Comitia Centuriata, on the other hand, was based on military divisions and included both patricians and plebeians. The Comitia Tributa represented the people based on their geographical location and was more accessible to the common citizens.
The decisions made in the Comitia were binding laws that applied to all Roman citizens. They were an essential part of the Roman political system, reflecting the democratic values and citizen participation prevalent in the republic. The Comitia played a crucial role in ensuring that the voice of the citizens was heard and that power was distributed among different social classes, reinforcing the idea of the res publica or the public interest.
Assemblies of the people in anc. Rome.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Comitia" has its roots in Latin. It comes from the Latin noun "comitium", which referred to a public meeting place in ancient Rome where the Roman citizens would gather to vote, pass laws, and conduct other political activities. Over time, "comitia" came to specifically mean the assemblies of the Roman people, and it is often used to refer to the various representative and legislative bodies in the ancient Roman Republic and Empire. The word has no known connection to any other language or root.