verbatim

UK: vɜːˈbeɪtɪm | US: vɜːrˈbeɪtɪm

Definition

  1. adj. in exactly the same words as were used originally

  2. adv. word for word; without any changes

Structure
verb <word>atim <adverbial suffix>verb <word>atim <adverbial suffix>
Etymology

The word verbatim comes directly from Medieval Latin verbatim, meaning "word for word." It retains its original structure, combining verbum (word) with the adverbial suffix -atim, which specifies exact repetition. This reflects the precision demanded in legal, scholarly, and religious contexts where exact wording is critical.

Examples

  1. The court reporter transcribed the testimony verbatim.

  2. She quoted the poem verbatim from memory.

  3. The contract must be copied verbatim to avoid errors.

  4. He repeated the instructions verbatim to ensure clarity.

  5. Historical documents are often preserved verbatim for accuracy.