inspiratio

Inspiratio is a Latin noun meaning "breathing in" and, figuratively, "inspiration." It is derived from inspirare, to breathe into. In classical Latin, inspiratio could refer to the physical act of inhalation as well as to the reception of a motivating impulse. Metaphorically, it described the infusion of a guiding spirit or muse, and, in rhetoric and philosophy, the momentary influence that yields creative or prophetic insight.

In theological and literary Latin, inspiratio acquired a specialized sense: the believed divine or prophetic touch whereby writers, poets, and scriptores receive their ideas. Early Christian authors discussed the inspiration of Scripture in terms of inspiratio divina, a notion that was reaffirmed in various medieval scholastic debates about the nature and limits of inspiration.

Linguistically, inspiratio is the etymon of the English "inspiration" and of similar terms in Romance languages. Modern scholarly usage of Latin retains the word to analyze ancient discussions of creativity, musing, and authorial authority, while in contemporary contexts the term mainly appears in linguistic or historical studies rather than as a common word in everyday speech.

In popular culture, Inspiratio is occasionally used as a proper name for brands, artistic projects, or events, drawing on its association with creativity and motivation. See also inspiration, inspirare, spiro.