LIBELLUS Meaning and
Definition
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Libellus refers to a term commonly used in Latin literature and ancient Roman society to denote a small book or pamphlet. In essence, it refers to a literary work of modest size, often comprising of a concise treatise or discourse on a specific subject or theme.
Etymologically, the term “libellus” is derived from the Latin word “liber,” meaning book or scroll. However, unlike larger works that might consist of multiple volumes, a libellus typically encompassed a single, compact volume. It was often used as a platform for authors and scholars to present their ideas or arguments in a condensed and accessible format.
The libellus was widely employed in different contexts. For instance, in Roman law and legal proceedings, it was a document submitted as evidence or a written complaint. It was particularly relevant in cases of defamation or libel, where a written statement was judged to be injurious to a person's character or reputation. Libellus was also utilized in religious contexts, referring to a prayer book or devotional literature.
Furthermore, in the early Christian Church, libellus was associated with a certificate or declaration of loyalty to the Roman state or emperor, especially during periods of persecution. Individuals who possessed a libellus were seen as conforming to the social and religious norms, while those without one were often subjected to suspicion and persecution.
Overall, libellus denotes a concise literary work, often dealing with a specific subject or serving a particular purpose, such as legal documentation, religious devotion, or intellectual discourse.
Common Misspellings for LIBELLUS
- libellua
- kibellus
- pibellus
- oibellus
- lubellus
- ljbellus
- lkbellus
- lobellus
- l9bellus
- l8bellus
- livellus
- linellus
- lihellus
- ligellus
- libwllus
- libsllus
- libdllus
- librllus
- lib4llus
- lib3llus
Etymology of LIBELLUS
The word "libellus" comes from Latin. Its etymology traces back to the Latin verb "librare", which means "to balance" or "to weigh". From this verb, the noun "libra" was derived, which refers to a Roman unit of weight. Over time, "libra" came to mean "balance" or "scales" in general and was also used metaphorically to represent fairness or equity.
From "libra", the diminutive form "libellus" was formed, meaning a little balance or a small book. In Ancient Rome, "libellus" referred to a small document or publication, often written in the form of a scroll or booklet.
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