Definition: C. is an abbreviation for the Latin word circa 'about'. C. is used in biographies and histories to show that a date is only an approximation. Sometimes c. is written ca. and it may or may not be italicized.
Do not confuse this c. with the abbreviation B.C. Although c. is usually used alone, it may be found with other abbreviations, including fl. Sometimes there will be a ? by the c. to show that even the approximation is doubtful.
Go to Other Ancient / Classical History Glossary pages beginning with the letter
a | b | c | d | e | f | g | h | i | j | k | l | m | n | o | p | q | r | s | t | u | v | wxyzAlternate Spellings: ca.,ca, c.
Examples:
Jesus was born c. 6 B.C.
