Lupercalia

noun

Lu·​per·​ca·​lia ˌlü-pər-ˈkā-lē-ə 

-ˈkāl-yə

: an ancient Roman festival celebrated February 15 to ensure fertility for the people, fields, and flocks

Lupercalian

ˌlü-pər-ˈkā-lē-ən 

-ˈkāl-yən

adjective

Examples of Lupercalia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Dating back to ancient Rome, the holiday originated with the feast of Lupercalia, celebrated from February 13 to 15. — Brandi D. Addison, Austin American Statesman, 14 Feb. 2025

One of the most common explanations is that Valentine's Day has its origins in the ancient Roman fertility festival of Lupercalia. — Ana Rocío Álvarez Bríñez, Louisville Courier Journal, 30 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin, plural, from Lupercus, god of flocks

First Known Use

circa 1580, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for Lupercalia

• melancholia
• olea
• qualia