Delenda

/dɛˈlɛndə/ noun

Definition

In Latin, things that must be deleted or destroyed; often used to refer to items marked for removal or a list of things to be done away with.

Etymology

From Latin delenda, the neuter plural of delendus (gerundive form of delere, 'to destroy'). The gerundive is a uniquely Latin construction expressing necessity or obligation—'things that must be deleted.'

Kelly Says

Cato the Elder used the phrase 'Carthago delenda est' (Carthage must be destroyed!) repeatedly in the Senate—that dramatic repetition is so powerful that the phrase echoes in English-language politics when people speak about things that 'must go.'

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