datus

Datus is a term that appears in multiple linguistic and cultural contexts. In Latin, datus is the masculine nominative singular perfect passive participle of the verb dare, meaning “having been given.” It is used as an adjective meaning given or granted, and its neuter plural form is datum; the plural data has become common in modern English to refer to facts or information.

In the Malay and Philippine contexts, Datu is a traditional title for a local ruler or high chief. The plural form datus is used in English-language or historical texts to refer to multiple such leaders. Datus typically served as political and social leaders within communities, with authority over land and people, and their position could be hereditary, elective, or recognized through consensus, varying by region and polity. The role and status of a datu could include ceremonial duties, mediation, and governance within a larger sultanate or confederation.

Etymologically, the Latin datus and the Austronesian Datu are distinct terms with different origins and histories. The Latin usage is grammatical and classical, while the title Datu reflects regional systems of leadership in the Malay world and the Philippines. In modern usage, datus generally appears in scholarly or historical writing, while the term Datu remains in everyday use within affected cultures to denote traditional leadership.

Overall, datus reflects how a single orthographic form can represent both a Latin participial adjective and a culturally specific title, illustrating the diversity of meanings across languages.