October Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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october

[ɒkˈtəʊbə ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

month

The tenth month of the year, between September and November, known for Halloween and autumn foliage.

Examples of usage

  • The Halloween party is in October.
  • In October, the leaves change color.
Context #2 | Noun

history

The eighth month of the Roman calendar, originally named 'Octobre' from the Latin word 'octo' meaning eight.

Examples of usage

  • In ancient Rome, October was the eighth month of the year.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, October is associated with harvest festivals as crops are gathered before winter.
  • Halloween, celebrated on October 31st, originated from ancient Celtic traditions linked to Samhain, marking the end of the harvest season.

Weather Patterns

  • October often marks the transition into cooler temperatures in the Northern Hemisphere, leading to colder weather as winter approaches.
  • In some areas, October is famous for its 'Indian summer,' a period of unseasonably warm weather occurring in the fall.

Astrological Events

  • October includes two zodiac signs: Libra (until around October 22) and Scorpio (from October 23 onwards), associated with balance and transformation respectively.
  • The month often features the Hunter's Moon, which is the first full moon after the harvest moon, providing light for hunters to gather in preparation for winter.

Literature and Media

  • October has inspired numerous works of literature and film, often representing themes of change, mystery, and the supernatural.
  • Ray Bradbury's 'Something Wicked This Way Comes' is set in October and explores the transition from childhood to adulthood amidst a carnival's magic.

Origin of 'october'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'October' comes from the Latin word 'octo', meaning 'eight', because it was the eighth month in the old Roman calendar.
  • In the modern calendar, October is the tenth month, but its name still reflects its original position before January and February were added.

The word 'October' comes from the Latin word 'octo', meaning eight, as October was the eighth month in the Roman calendar. Over time, the calendar was adjusted, and October became the tenth month. In modern times, October is known for Halloween, autumn foliage, and cooler temperatures in the northern hemisphere.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,442, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.