8

In an answer to the question whether oculus is a diminutive, cnread told that this word comes from the Proto-Indo-European root *H3ekw, "see". Are there other Latin words from this same root, in particular without the diminutive-looking suffix -ulus? Perhaps antiquus (as suggested in a comment)? I cannot recall any Latin word that looks similar to oc- (oculus minus the suffix), but of course there may have been bigger sound changes than I can guess.

0

1 Answer 1

9

NIL mentions the following:

atrox, cf. de Vaan "Probably a derivative of the adj. āter 'black' and the PIE root *h3ekw- 'to look', thus 'having a black aspect'."

ferox, cf. de Vaan "The adj. fer-ōx may be (one of) the source(s) of the suffix -ōx, if from * [f.]ēro-h3kw- 'having a fierce aspect'. This can be disputed, but I see no better source for this suffix."

de Vaan adds one more, omen (?), cf. de Vaan "Proto-Italic okws-mn- 'sighting, omen'?; Proto-Indo-European *h3ekw-s- 'to see' [pr.]."

1
  • 1
    Interesting! It never occurred to me that it might appear as a suffix. Omen sounds semantically reasonable, too.
    – Joonas Ilmavirta
    Feb 13, 2018 at 8:30

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.