Editing Sprimont (section)

==Etymology==

Sprimont is an ancient name, the earliest written records of which date from 855 and 856 AD. These are located in the Abbey of [[Stavelot]].

The etymology of Sprimont is uncertain. ''[[a priori and a posteriori|A priori]]'', it seems to be the name of a place; however some historians propose that it may derive from a person's name.<ref>''Bulletin et annales de l’Academie d’Archeologie de Belgique'', vol. XXXVIII, ''Bulletin de l'Institute Archeologique Liégeoise, vol. VII''</ref>

Spellings of Sprimont may be different, depending on (1) the written language, and (2) the time period. Since Sprimont is more than 1,100 years old, a variety of different spellings are to be expected. For example, Ernst cites "Sprismonte" in 888 AD, and Martine & Duraud cite "Sprismont" in 1049. However, since about 1000 AD "Sprimont" seems to be exclusively used. In {{lang|fr|Bulletin de l'Institute Archeologique Liégeoise}} (vol. VII), there are further references to the Teutonic {{lang|gem|Spir-Boum, Spereboum, Sper-Boun}} and the Frisian {{lang|fy|Spiri, Spere, Sper}}, as well as the [[Latin]] {{lang|la|sorbus}}. These translate as 'speer', 'hasta,' and 'lance.'{{Clarify|reason=which ones translate to these? and are they translating into English?|date=January 2021}}

There is a consensus that the root is of a Latin origin. If this is correct, the suffix ''-mont'' is probably from {{lang|la|mons, montis}}, meaning either hill or mountain. However, some historians point out that many geographical names with this suffix belong to places not on a hill, some of which are even in valleys. This may cast doubt on the true meaning being "hill", but another source indicates that {{lang|la|mons}} was used in Roman times to indicate a way-station for travellers.

As for the prefix of ''spri-'', more debate is required, as its origin seems to be lost to antiquity. Ancient written documents{{citation needed|date=January 2012}} indicate several possible Latin origins: {{lang|la|spiris, spers}}. Regardless of the meaning of the root word, one must also consider the usage in the context of the name itself. For example, if it does indeed refer to a species of tree or wood, in those ancient times, what was the connotation? It has been argued persuasively that 'spri' means 'lance'.{{citation needed|date=January 2012}}

Concluding the etymology of Sprimont, the active might mean 'Mounted Warrior', whereas the passive might mean 'Lance of Defence'. This is from {{lang|fr|mont de Spiris}}.