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
Latin word order Other factors that play a role in word order are semantic (for example, adjectives of size usually precede the noun, those of material more often follow it), and in some Latin authors consideration of such matters as euphony, assonance, and rhythm. One major area of disagreement is how far syntax plays a role in word order. According to Devine and Stephens (2006), Latin has a basic neutral word order, which they state is as follows: A "non-referential object" is one like "impetum" in the phrase "impetum facere" ("to make an attack") which goes closely with the verb. Following the theories