История происхождения английского слова «August»

Ранее один из наших преподавателей рассказывал в своей статье об истории происхождения названий дней недели. Следуя этой логике, у названий месяцев тоже должна быть своя интересная предыстория. И это так и есть. Сегодня Иен, преподаватель английского языка из США, расскажет о происхождении слова «August» в английском языке.

Have you ever wondered about the history of the word «August»? Probably not. But I bet most of you don’t know that this word has a very interesting history. The month of August wasn’t always called August. It used to be called «sextilla». This means «six» in Latin. So when did the word change? And why?

The word changed in 8B.C. In honor of Augustus Caesar, son of Julius Caesar. As the first ruler of the Roman Empire, Augustus had tremendous power and influence. He was feared and respected throughout the entire eastern hemisphere.

«What does a man do with all that power?» one might ask. And the answer is blaringly obvious. What would you do with power like this?

Of course! Name a month after yourself! Augustus forced everyone in the Roman Empire to call the month formerly known as «sextilla» after his likeness. August. This habit of speech spread throughout the world (as the Roman Empire was the most influential land on Earth at this time). And the rest is history!

Who knew such a mundane word could have such an interesting history?