Origins of Month Names

Study Notes

Roman Gods and Goddesses by Month

January is associated with Janus, the god of beginnings and transitions.
February is linked to Februus, the god of purification.
March corresponds to Mars, the god of war.
April is dedicated to Venus, the goddess of love.
May honors Maia, the goddess of growth.
June is connected to Juno, the goddess of marriage and family.

Latin Words or Phrases by Month

January is derived from "Ianuarius," referring to Janus.
February originates from "Februarius," linked to purification.
March comes from "Martius," named after Mars.
April is believed to come from "aperire," meaning to open, signifying the opening of flowers.
May is taken from "Maius," referencing Maia.
June stems from "Iunius," associated with Juno.

Historical Figures by Month

January may reference Julius Caesar, as it begins the year.
February can relate to the purification rituals established by Romulus.
March is often connected to historical military leaders due to its link with Mars.
April may celebrate figures linked to spring or renewal, like poets and artists.
May can highlight influential women and mothers, reflecting Maia's nurturing aspect.
June might honor leaders associated with family governance.

Meanings by Month

January symbolizes new beginnings and resolutions.
February represents purification and love, linked to the festival of Lupercalia.
March signifies rebirth and renewal, tied to the start of the war season.
April denotes growth and beauty, linked to blooming flowers.
May symbolizes fertility and motherhood.
June often represents marriage and familial ties.

Roman Families by Month

January reflects the Julian family (Julians), rooted in ancient Roman leadership.
February connects with the Fabii, known for their purification traditions.
March may highlight families that emphasized military prowess, like the Claudii.
April is associated with influential artistic families or poets in Roman culture.
May celebrates the Cornelii, known for their contributions to society.
June links to the Aemilii, related to familial alliances and marriage.

Numerical Meanings by Month

January is the first month, symbolizing beginnings.
February is the second month, often linked to duality and balance.
March represents the third month, connecting to action and preparation.
April, as the fourth month, signifies stability and order.
May, the fifth month, symbolizes change and freedom.
June is the sixth month, often related to relationships and harmony.

Origins of Months

January originates from the Latin word for Janus, marking the start of the year.
February has roots in the term for purification due to festivity practices.
March is derived from Martius, tied to the Roman calendar as the first month of the year.
April could stem from "aperire," symbolizing the opening of flora.
May originates from Maia, marking the arrival of spring growth.
June is derived from the goddess Juno, emphasizing the importance of marriage.
Each month has distinct cultural, historical, and symbolic significance, influencing modern practices and conventions.

Description

Discover the fascinating story behind the origins of month names in English. Learn how January, February, and other months got their names from Roman gods and festivals. Test your knowledge and compare it with what you already know.