lituus

[ lit-yoo-uhs ]

noun

, plural lit·u·i [lit, -yoo-ahy].

1. Geometry. a polar curve generated by the locus of a point moving so that the square of its radius vector varies inversely as the angle the radius vector makes with the polar axis. Equation: θr 2 = a.
2. (in ancient Rome) a crook-shaped staff used by augurs for divination.

Word History and Origins

Origin of lituus¹

1605–15; < Latin; geometrical sense from the curve's resemblance to such a staff

Example Sentences

Eckhel infers from the guttus and lituus on one of Sulla's coins that he was an Augur.

From Project Gutenberg

Lituus, li-tū′us, n. an augur's staff with recurved top: a spiral of similar form.

From Project Gutenberg

It is the gold lituus dug up in the year 1824, within the monolithic circle of Leys, Inverness-shire.

From Project Gutenberg

The Roman lituus, the chief ensign of the augurs, became the crozier.

From Project Gutenberg

A Roman lituus, or clarion, was found near Tattershall Ferry.

From Project Gutenberg