Flammae

Flammae is a Latin noun of the feminine gender belonging to the first declension. The form flammae occurs in several grammatical roles: as the nominative plural meaning “the flames,” and as the genitive singular or dative singular meaning “of the flame” or “to/for the flame,” depending on syntax. The base word flamma means flame or blaze.

Etymology and usage: Flammae derives from the Latin noun flamma, which denotes a flame or blaze. In Romance languages, descendants of flamma are seen in words such as Italian fiamma and French flamme, with Spanish llama also reflecting the same root. In Latin texts, flammae is commonly used to describe literal flames in scenes of sacrifice, battle, or illumination, as well as to convey metaphorical heat, zeal, or passion.

Declension notes: In the singular, nominative is flamma; genitive and dative are flammae; accusative is flammam; and ablative is flammā. In the plural, nominative is flammae; genitive is flammarum; dative is flammis; accusative is flammās; ablative is flammīs. Because flammae is identical in form for several cases and numbers, context is essential for correct interpretation.

Context and interpretation: Flammae appears across literary and religious Latin, ranging from vivid depictions of fire to symbolic uses related to ardor and fervor. The word’s ambiguity in form highlights how Latin relies on surrounding syntax to determine precise meaning.

See also: flamma (the singular form), fire in Latin, Latin grammar and declension.