Camenae

/kəˈmeɪniː/ noun

Definition

In Roman mythology, the Camenae were a group of water nymphs and goddesses of springs, fountains, and prophecy, often associated with the Muses.

Etymology

From Latin Camenae (plural), possibly related to a Sabine root meaning 'to sing' or connected to the verb canere (to sing). The Romans syncretized them with Greek Muses over time.

Kelly Says

The Roman poet Ovid claimed the Camenae were the original source of all poetry and prophecy in Italy, literally living in sacred springs—making water itself a source of literary inspiration.

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