fēbrŭum, i, n. Orig., in the Sabine lang.,
a purgation , means of purification. — Hence, februa , ōrum, n., the Roman festival of purification and expiation , celebrated on the 15th of the month hence called February (v. Februarius); whence, Februālis , Febrūlis , and Februāta , surnames of Juno , who was worshipped at this festival; Februātus , the festival itself; and Februus , a surname of Lupercus , who presided over this festival : Lupercalia dicta, quod in Lupercali luperci sacra faciunt. Rex cum ferias menstruas Nonis Februariis edicit, hunc diem Februatum appellat. Februum Sabini purgamentum, et id in sacris nostris verbum; nam et Lupercalia februatio,