laboramus

Laboramus is the Latin first-person plural present active indicative form of the verb laborare, meaning to work or to toil. As a regular 1st-conjugation verb, it appears in the standard present tense paradigm: laboro, laboras, laborat, laboramus, laboratis, laborant. The form laboramus translates to “we work” or “we are working,” indicating ongoing action by the speaker and at least one other person.

Morphology and usage notes: laborare supplies the principal parts laboro, laborare, laboravi, laboratum, which scholars use to derive other tenses and voices. The present indicative is commonly used in narrative and expository Latin to describe contemporary or general ongoing labor, effort, or activity. Like other present forms, laboramus conveys imperfective aspect, focusing on the process rather than a completed action.

Context and examples: In classical texts, laboramus may appear in discussions of civic duty, labor, or philosophical reflection on human activity. It is also found in inscriptions, mottos, or pedagogical passages where a collective effort is emphasized. A typical translation is straightforward: “We work.” While not a proper noun, laboramus can function as a compact emblem or slogan in Latin-influenced contexts.

Modern relevance: Today, laboramus is chiefly encountered in the study of Latin grammar, classical literature, or Latin-language inscriptions. It remains a standard exemplar of first-person plural present active indicative and a focal point for understanding how Latin conveys collective action.