Hannibal ad portas

Latin

Etymology

Literally, “Hannibal is at the gates”.

Pronunciation

• (Classical Latin) IPA^(key): [ˈhan.nɪ.baɫ ˈad ˈpɔr.taːs]
• (modern Italianate Ecclesiastical) IPA^(key): [ˈän.ni.bäl ˈäd̪ ˈpɔr.t̪äs]

Phrase

Hannibal ad portās

1. Phrase used to express fear or anxiety, or to instill it in others (particularly children).