Carpe diem

/ˌkɑːrpeɪ ˈdiːɛm/ phrase

Definition

'Seize the day' — an exhortation to make the most of the present moment without worrying about the future.

Etymology

From Latin, coined by the poet Horace in 23 BC: 'Carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero' (Seize the day, trusting as little as possible in tomorrow). The ultimate motto of living in the now.

Kelly Says

Horace wrote this 2000 years ago and it's STILL the best life advice! The full quote adds 'trust tomorrow as little as possible!' Today is guaranteed. Tomorrow is a rumor. SEIZE IT! Robin Williams made it legendary in Dead Poets Society! 🎬✊

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.