Sub rosa

The phrase sub rosa (Latin, under a rose ' ) comes from the upscale humanists German and is - as entre nous ( " now just between us") - a reference phrase, the content of discussions initiates that are to escape an unwanted audience as possible. It is used by both elaborate German as well as English speakers and announces that the following should remain confidential.

The Romans hung a rose at secret meetings at the ceiling, so that those present were silent about what was said. The term is based on the story that the Cupido Harpocrates, the god of secrecy, roses sent and asked him to keep his mother Venus, the love affair a secret. Since medieval times, the confessionals for the same reason are decorated with carved roses.

In literature, letters, and conversations the phrase was common especially in the 19th century. However, it is still used today. Example: "These two party members are - sub rosa - deep enmity. "