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Glite Dictionary
Jupiter Optimus Maximus

Jupiter Optimus Maximus

9.9
The main title of the Roman god Jupiter that shows he is the greatest god in the Roman Empire
  • proper noun
  • Archaic
translation icon : Júpiter Óptimo Máximo
  • The temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus was one of the most important religious sites in ancient Rome.

Examples

  • Priests offered sacrifices to Jupiter Optimus Maximus during state ceremonies.

  • Scholars still debate the rituals associated with Jupiter Optimus Maximus in Roman religion.

  • The temple dedicated to Jupiter Optimus Maximus was one of the largest in Rome.

  • Many Romans prayed to Jupiter Optimus Maximus for guidance.

  • Priests offered sacrifices to Jupiter Optimus Maximus during state ceremonies.

  • The temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus was one of the most important religious sites in ancient Rome.

  • Many Romans prayed to Jupiter Optimus Maximus for guidance.

Surface Forms

Jupiter Optimus Maximus main

Morphology

Jupiter + Optimus + Maximus

The phrase combines the proper name 'Jupiter' with two Latin superlatives ('Optimus' = best, 'Maximus' = greatest), so its sense as an honorific meaning 'Jupiter the best and greatest' (i.e., supreme in power and authority) is directly derivable from the constituents. This pattern of name + superlative honorific is cross-linguistically familiar, so a learner who knows the constituent meanings would readily understand the epithet.

Etymology

Jupiter Optimus Maximus uses two words, Optimus 'best' and Maximus 'greatest', to give a clear picture of Jupiter as the top, most powerful god. So the title showed Romans he was their 'chief god' with the highest power.