Conclave, Enclave, Clavicle, and Clef

The word conclave comes from Latin con- meaning “together” and clavis meaning “key.” A gathering known as a conclave occurs in “a room that can be locked.” From the same root comes enclave, from the idea of “enclosing,” as well as clavier, a keyboard instrument. The shoulder bone called the clavicle, which resembles a type of ancient key, takes its name from Latin for “little key.” Latin clavis also gave us, via French, the word clef, which is key to the notes to be played, as well as roman à clef, a work of fiction featuring thinly veiled depictions of real people or events—literally, a novel with a “key.” This is part of a complete episode.