Antesignanus

/ˌæntiːsɪɡˈneɪnəs/ noun

Definition

A singular form of antesignani; a Roman soldier stationed before the legion's standard.

Etymology

Latin singular form derived from 'ante' (before) + 'signum' (standard). This is the individual version of the plural antesignani, using the standard Latin masculine singular ending.

Kelly Says

The Romans had such specific military vocabulary that they created both singular and plural forms for every rank—knowing whether you were one antesignanus or many antesignani told you exactly your role in the hierarchy.

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