Lustrum meaning

The lustrum is a period of five years that was used in ancient Rome for census purposes and purification rituals.


Lustrum definitions

Word backwards murtsul
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division lus-trum
Plural The plural of the word "lustrum" is "lustra."
Total letters 7
Vogais (1) u
Consonants (5) l,s,t,r,m

Lustrum is a term that originates from ancient Rome and refers to a period of five years. This concept was significant in Roman society, where certain activities and rituals were performed every lustrum.

Lustration, which is the act of purifying or cleansing, was a common practice during these five-year intervals. It was believed that performing lustrations would bring about purification and renewal to individuals, communities, and even the land itself.

The Importance of Lustrum in Roman Culture

During a lustrum, the Roman censor would take a census of Roman citizens, assess their property holdings, and ensure that all citizens were fulfilling their civic duties. This process was crucial for maintaining order and ensuring the loyalty of the population.

Traditional Lustrum Ceremonies

One of the most well-known rituals performed during a lustrum was the sacrifice of a pig, sheep, and bull to the Roman gods. The blood of these animals was used in purificatory rites, and their flesh was often consumed in communal feasts.

In addition to sacrifices, elaborate processions, games, and religious ceremonies were held to mark the end of one lustrum and the beginning of the next. These events were seen as opportunities for the community to come together and celebrate its shared identity.

The Legacy of Lustrum

Although the concept of lustrum is rooted in ancient Roman culture, its influence can still be seen today. The idea of marking significant milestones every five years has been adopted in various fields, from academia to business, as a way to reflect on past achievements and set goals for the future.

Whether in ancient Rome or modern society, the lustrum serves as a reminder of the importance of periodic reflection, renewal, and growth. It is a time to pause, assess, and envision a better future for individuals and communities alike.


Lustrum Examples

  1. The construction of the new building was completed in just one lustrum.
  2. The government plans to conduct a population census every lustrum.
  3. The university celebrated its lustrum anniversary with a grand ceremony.
  4. The ancient civilization held a festival every lustrum to honor their gods.
  5. The company set ambitious financial goals to achieve within the next lustrum.
  6. The council decided to renovate the park once every lustrum to maintain its beauty.
  7. During the lustrum of peace, the country experienced great economic growth.
  8. The museum curated a special exhibition to commemorate the lustrum of its establishment.
  9. The tradition of hosting a grand feast every lustrum has been passed down for generations.
  10. The team set a record for consecutive wins within a single lustrum.


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  • Updated 13/05/2024 - 22:20:03