Circle

There a several Latin words for circle.  Orbis, circulus, and circlus.  Sometimes the Romans would even use the word, circus.  Usually, though, the word circus referred to a race course, or a celebration of games performed in a round arena. Related to circulus,...

Pedestal

Pedestal: In architecture, the lowest part of a column or pillar. The pedestal sustains a column and serves as its “foot.” A pedestal is a support structure, a base. We can use the word pedestal figuratively as well. When we put someone “on a pedestal,” we are...

Brachiopod

Brachiopod: a marine animal, similar to a mollusk.  The brachiopods has a pair of tentacled arms used to capture food.  Brachiopods are hinged at the rear end.  The front opens when the creature is hungry and closes when it needs protection.  In extremely dangerous...

Chevalier

Chevalier: In the old days, a chevalier was a knight. This definition is now considered obsolete. Instead, a chevalier is now a gallant, or chivalrous man. A chevalier can also be someone who keeps their word. You can see the root meaning if you look closely. After...