Cornū

Definition

Cornū is a Latin noun meaning 'horn' and is a part of the fourth declension in Latin grammar. This term is essential in understanding how nouns of this declension are structured, particularly in their case endings and usage in sentences. The word cornū also serves as an example of the unique features of the fourth declension, which primarily includes nouns that are neuter and have a distinctive set of endings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cornū is a neuter noun that belongs to the fourth declension, which is characterized by its specific endings in different cases.
2. The nominative singular form of cornū is 'cornū', while the genitive singular is 'cornūs', demonstrating the unique endings in the fourth declension.
3. In the plural form, cornū changes to 'cornua' in the nominative case and 'cornuum' in the genitive case.
4. As a neuter noun, cornū follows the rule that all neuter nouns have identical nominative and accusative forms.
5. Cornū can be used in various contexts, including literature and descriptions, often symbolizing strength or power as horns are typically associated with animals.

Review Questions

• How does cornū exemplify the features of the fourth declension in Latin?
  • Cornū exemplifies the features of the fourth declension through its neuter gender and distinctive case endings. The structure of cornū showcases how nouns in this declension maintain similar forms for both nominative and accusative cases. Additionally, its genitive form reveals the characteristic ending that distinguishes fourth declension nouns from others, reinforcing the idea of grammatical patterns in Latin.
• What are the nominative and genitive forms of cornū, and how do they reflect its declension?
  • The nominative form of cornū is 'cornū', while its genitive form is 'cornūs'. These forms reflect its classification as a fourth declension neuter noun, with the nominative ending remaining consistent across singular forms. The genitive ending indicates possession and follows the specific rules set for nouns within this declension, demonstrating how Latin grammar structures noun usage.
• Evaluate how understanding cornū can enhance one's grasp of Latin grammar overall.
  • Understanding cornū enhances one's grasp of Latin grammar by providing insight into the rules governing fourth declension nouns. By analyzing its forms and case endings, students can better appreciate how Latin structure works and apply these principles to other nouns within this category. Furthermore, recognizing patterns such as those found in cornū aids in decoding complex sentences and contributes to overall fluency in reading and interpreting Latin texts.

Related terms

declension: A grammatical category that classifies nouns based on their endings and changes according to case, number, and gender.

nominative: The case used for the subject of a sentence; it often answers the question 'who?' or 'what?'.

genitive: The case used to indicate possession, often translated as 'of' or 'belonging to'.