"Pilum" pronounciation

HeatSurge

HeatSurge

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After somebody mentioned the pronounciation of Pilum during the scrim, I looked it up. It turns out it's actually a Roman javelin (with pretty cool tech too for its time lol). Check out this wikpedia article:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilum

As far as pronunciation goes, I couldn't find a clear answer.

Some say it's "pee-lum" (which I prefer), and others - "pie-lum."

Check here:
http://www.romanempire.net/romepage/ForumRomanum/MilitaryCampaigns/DagorhirJavelins.htm

and here:
http://www.romanarmytalk.com/rat/viewtopic.php?f=55&t=24854

(just do a ctrl+f for "pilum")

I suppose it's actually Latin, so for a conclusive answer, I think you'd have to talk to a Latin professor... (if you care that much lol).
 
Agent,

True, the dictionary may say that it's PIE-lum... but I believe it's an Anglicized pronunciation. The original Latin one is supposed to be PEE-lum, according to the posts I posted above.

So, in summary - it's probably the same as the argument whether it's supposed to be "SHEH-dule" or "SKEH-dule" (for schedule)... both should be acceptable.

I personally insist on original-language pronunciation, so I'll continue to say PEE-lum (because that's what it would be in Latin I believe). Everyone who disagrees, can basically kiss my ass (especially Boondokk). :-P
 
I just know whatever it is, some of you are too damn good with it!
 
I was just looking at a Latin dictionary and it does have the pronunciation as pee-lum. So, Heatsurge is quite correct in his usage. And if any of you bitches don't like it then you can suck my pilum (all 3 meters of it)!.


Just a bit of history-since I was looking at Casell's Roman Dictionary, Worldbook, and sadly enough Brittanica online.

The traditional Pilum was a Javelin/spear. 3 meters in length for the thick Pilum that could be thrown for an average of 30 meters (only two types thick and thin). 2 meters length for the thin pilum carried into battle as a spear after the thick one was thrown.

The thick Pilum had a long, relatively soft iron shaft which was capable of penetrating its intended target but likely to bend on striking armor or the ground, thus making it useless to be thrown back.

A common tactic when using the Pilum against troops with shields was to pierce the opponent's shield with the thick pilum, where the shaft would bend, making extraction difficult.

The opposing soldier generally lost the use of his shield, his best defense against the infamous Roman short sword or the thin pilum.


A good reference with visuals:

http://www.romancoins.info/MilitaryEquipment-spear.html#Pilum

http://www.reference.com/browse/wiki/Pilum
 
I can speak for myself sixer, I carry a huge pilum that most would like to carry.
 
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Let's just hope it doesn't bend upon contact then. lolz
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hahaha
 
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i got a pilum between my legs and its all for you ballsy
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From what Soulzz tells me it's a thin type.
 
I pack a punch dudes with my lite version! Watch out im dangerous! fucky
 
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