Latin - An ancient language dead or alive?

Whilst researching words for my short stories I became quite interested in Latin.

Latin is considered a dead language. No one speaks Latin as a native language anymore but is it really dead. Definitely not if you look its all around us. 

It was interesting to see Latin still creeps into today's language and is commonly used in Law, Medicine and Music.  Latin also still influences many of the popular children's names today. I found loads but here are some of the most popular -

Olivia (from Latin 'Oliva' meaning Olive), Emily and Amelia (from the Latin 'Aemilianus', a Latin family name) and Grace (from Latin 'Gratia', meaning goodwill or kindness).

Anthony (from Latin 'Antonius' meaning praiseworthy), Luke (from Latin 'Lucius' meaning bringer of light), and Max (from Latin 'Maximillian' meaning the greatest).

I also came across many familiar & lovely phrases whilst researching so thought I'd share my favourites - 

Verba Volant, Scripta Manent which means Words fly away, writings remain.  I think this is quite apt for a writer and is beautiful.

My absolute favourite is In Somnis Veritas which means In dreams there is truth.  I have used this phrase in a story and would one day love to have it as a tattoo.

I also think this one has strength using very few words. Transit umbra, lux permanent - Shadow passes, light remains.

I think the increase in celebrities being inked with Latin phrases has also increased exposure and interest with the likes of David Beckham, Angelina Jolie, Ian Somerhalder and Colin Farrell all having famous Latin tattoos.  I myself would love to get one but am having difficulty picking a body part ha ha!!!

Do you have a Latin inspired tattoo?

Or is your child's name influenced by a Latin name?

I'd love to hear from you.

Emma x