carpe diem
Carpe diem (phrase) means Seize the day: make the most of the present rather than worrying about the future. Example: “He quit the job and booked the flight — carpe diem.”
How to Use Carpe diem
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishMake the most of today.
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
He quit the job and booked the flight — _____.
Etymology
From Latin, literally "pluck the day," from the Roman poet Horace's Odes, where it advises enjoying the present because the future is uncertain.
Synonyms
View more →Rhymes for carpe diem
See all rhymes for carpe diem →Frequently Asked Questions
What does carpe diem mean?
Literally "pluck the day," usually translated "seize the day" — an encouragement to make the most of the present moment instead of deferring life to some later date.
Where does carpe diem come from?
From the Odes of the Roman poet Horace. The fuller line urges the reader to seize the day and put little trust in tomorrow.