Langimage
English

capital

|cap/i/tal|

B2

/ˈkæpɪtəl/

head, main

Etymology
Etymology Information

'capital' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'capitalis,' where 'caput' meant 'head.'

Historical Evolution

'capitalis' transformed into the Old French word 'capitaille,' and eventually became the modern English word 'capital' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'of the head,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings related to cities, wealth, and excellence.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the city or town that functions as the seat of government and administrative center of a country or region.

Tokyo is the capital of Japan.

Synonyms

Noun 2

wealth in the form of money or assets, used or accumulated in a business by a person, partnership, or corporation.

The company is looking to raise capital for expansion.

Synonyms

Adjective 1

(of an offense or charge) liable to the death penalty.

Murder is considered a capital crime in many jurisdictions.

Synonyms

Adjective 2

excellent or first-rate.

He did a capital job on the project.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35