deficimus

Deficimus is a Latin word that translates to "we fail," "we lack," or "we desert" in English. Its grammatical form is the first-person plural present active indicative of the verb deficere. This verb itself is a compound of the prefix de-, often indicating removal or separation, and the verb facere, meaning "to do" or "to make." Thus, deficere literally suggests a "doing away" or "falling away" from something.

The semantic range of deficere, and by extension deficimus, is quite broad. It can describe a physical failing, such as a machine breaking down or a person's strength giving out. In a more abstract sense, it can refer to a deficiency or shortage of something, like a lack of resources or courage. Furthermore, deficere can also imply abandonment or a falling away from loyalty, akin to desertion.

In classical Latin literature, deficimus would be used in various contexts to convey these different shades of meaning. For example, a soldier might say deficimus if their strength failed them in battle, or a political faction might accuse another of deficere if they abandoned their allies. Understanding the nuances of deficere is crucial for accurately interpreting Latin texts, as the precise meaning often depends on the surrounding context. The word's versatility makes it a common and important element in the Latin lexicon.