What is the meaning and history of the word Imperator?

The Latin word imperator derives from the stem of the verb imperare, meaning 'to order, to command'. It was originally employed as a title roughly equivalent to commander under the Roman Republic. Later it became a part of the titulature of the Roman Emperors as part of their cognomen.

1. What did imperator mean?
2. What is the female word for imperator?
3. What is the usage of imperator?
4. What is the ancient Roman word for leader?

What did imperator mean?

Imperator (αὐτοκράτωρ‎), a generic title for Roman commanders, became a special title of honour. After a victory the general was saluted imperator by his soldiers. He assumed the title after his name until the end of his magistracy or until his triumph. Sometimes the senate seems to have given or confirmed the title.

What is the female word for imperator?

Another word for empress and the feminine form of imperator which is in the dictionary already. Plural can be imperatrixes or imperatrices.

What is the usage of imperator?

The Roman word imperator simply means "commander" or "general" and is the equivalent of Greek strategos. However, the expression had a second, more specific meaning, which comes close to Greek strategos autokrator, "commander and ruler". This title was used for extraordinary commanders.

What is the ancient Roman word for leader?

princeps, (Latin: “first one,” or “leader”) the unofficial title used by the Roman emperors from Augustus (reigned 27 bc–ad 14) to Diocletian (reigned ad 284–305).