Februarius, fully Mensis Februarius, was the shortest month of the Roman calendar from which the Julian and Gregorian month of February derived. It was eventually placed second in order, preceded by Ianuarius and followed by Martius.

What does February mean in Latin?

FEBRUARY. From the Latin word februa, “to cleanse.” The Roman calendar month of Februarius was named for Februalia, a festival of purification and atonement that took place during this period.

What is a Februum?

A means of ritual purification. Censorinus claims that “anything that consecrates or purifies is a februum,” while februamenta signifies rites of purification.