The spelling of the phrase "in fidels" is often misinterpreted as "infidels." However, the correct spelling reflects its Latin roots and should be written as "in fidels" to mean "against the unfaithful." This phrase is pronounced as /ɪn ˈfaɪdəlz/ with emphasis on the first syllable of "fidels." The phonetic transcription also shows the pronunciation of the long "i" sound and the emphasis on the second syllable of "infidels," which reflects an incorrect interpretation of the phrase.
The term "in fidels" is derived from Latin, specifically from the phrase "in fidēlis".
- "In" is a preposition meaning "in" or "inside".
- "Fidēlis" is the plural form of the adjective "fidēlis", meaning "faithful" or "loyal".
Combined, "in fidēlis" translates to "in faithful ones" or "among the faithful". It is often used to refer to non-believers or those who do not share the same religious faith. Over time, the term has evolved into "infidels" in English, commonly used to denote unbelievers or those outside a particular faith or religion.