How Do You Spell PECCAVI?

Pronunciation: [pˈɛkɐvˌi] (IPA)

Peccavi is a Latin phrase that translates to "I have sinned." The pronunciation of this word is [pɛˈkɑːvi], with the stress on the second syllable. The letter "c" in the Latin alphabet always represents the sound "k," which is why "peccavi" is spelled with "cc" instead of "ck." The letter "v" in Latin is pronounced [w], so the final syllable of "peccavi" is pronounced with a "w" sound. This spelling has remained consistent despite changes in pronunciation in different languages that have adopted the phrase.

PECCAVI Meaning and Definition

1. Peccavi is a Latin word that translates to "I have sinned" in English. The term is derived from the Latin verb "pecco," meaning to err or to sin. Historically, "Peccavi" holds significance as it was famously used in a message sent by British General Sir Charles Napier in 1843.

   The context behind Napier's use of "Peccavi" was during the conquest of the Indian state of Sindh, which had resisted British dominance. After a successful military campaign, Napier sent a one-word telegram to his superior, Lord Ellenborough, stating "Peccavi." This clever wordplay was meant as a pun, as "Peccavi" sounded like the Latin phrase for "I have sinned," but in this case, meant "I have Sindh," referring to the conquest of the state. His message was understood to convey his successful capture of Sindh in a succinct and humorous way.

   Beyond its historical origins, "Peccavi" has become a well-known phrase and is often used figuratively. It can be used humorously or ironically as a way of acknowledging guilt, apologizing, or admitting wrongdoing. It might be used humorously in situations where someone has won a game or competition, similar to Napier's original intention. In a broader sense, "Peccavi" can be seen as a playful, concise, and clever way to express acceptance of fault or responsibility for one's actions.

2. A word confessing error; an admission of having done wrong.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PECCAVI

• peccavy
• oeccavi
• leccavi
• -eccavi
• 0eccavi
• pwccavi
• psccavi
• pdccavi
• prccavi
• p4ccavi
• p3ccavi
• pexcavi
• pevcavi
• pefcavi
• pedcavi
• pecxavi
• pecvavi
• pecfavi
• pecdavi
• pecczvi

Etymology of PECCAVI

The word "Peccavi" is a Latin term that translates to "I have sinned" in English. The term is derived from the Latin verb "peccare", which means "to sin" or "to make a mistake". The word gained notable historical significance due to its association with the surrender of the Indian city of Sindh to the British Empire in 1843. Major General Charles James Napier, the British military commander, sent a one-word telegram to his superiors, stating "Peccavi", indicating his success in the capture of Sindh. The word gained widespread attention and became a popular phrase to reference surrender or admission of guilt.

Plural form of PECCAVI is PECCAVIS