Pontifex maximus pointed out that the term existed before there were any bridges in Rome and derived the word from Old Latin "pontis" (sic) meaning a powerful or absolute master, while others derived it from "potis facere" in the sense of "able to sacrifice". The last derivation is mentioned also by Varro, who rejected it, but it was the view of Pontifex Maximus Quintus Scaevola. Others have held that the word was originally "pompifex" (leader of public processions). The word "pons" originally meant "way" and "pontifex" would thus mean "maker of roads and bridges". Another opinion is that the word is a
Tribulus terrestris are thereby dispersed. This causes damage to domesticated livestock and degrades wool. The Greek word, τρίβολος meaning 'water-chestnut', translated into Latin as "tribulos". The Latin name "tribulus" originally meant the caltrop (a spiky weapon), but in Classical times already the word meant this plant as well. The plant is widely naturalized in the Americas and also in Australia south of its native range. In some states in the United States, it is considered a noxious weed and an invasive species. It is a declared plant in South Australia. It has been reported that the seeds or nutlets have been used