Pronunciation: [mˈɒntəm] (IPA) 
Montem is a word that is spelled as it is pronounced. Using the IPA phonetic transcription, the word is written as /ˈmɒntɛm/. The "m" sound starts the word, followed by the long "o" sound. The "n" is pronounced next, then the "t" and the "e" sound. The word ends with the "m" sound again. The spelling of Montem does not contain any silent letters, making it a straightforward and phonetic word to spell.
Montem refers to a centuries-old tradition held in England, particularly at Eton College, an esteemed boarding school near Windsor. It originally denoted a large mound or hill where certain events or ceremonies took place. However, specifically in the context of Eton College, Montem has evolved to signify a unique and vibrant ceremony that has been practiced since the late 17th century.
During the event, pupils from the college would gather on the nearby Salt Hill (previously known as Montem Hill) dressed in colorful and widely varied costumes, representing a range of characters or themes. They would then parade through the local town, soliciting donations from the community. The funds collected were traditionally used to support the event's king, typically a prominent student. This role enabled the chosen individual to increase his social standing and influence within the school.
Montem became a highly anticipated and celebrated affair, attracting attendees from afar. It engendered a sense of camaraderie and unity among the students, promoting a spirit of joviality and festivity. Although the tradition ceased to be practiced as of 1847 due to concerns about disruptive behavior by the students, its legacy endures as an essential part of Eton's rich history.
The term "Montem" has therefore come to represent not only the hill where the ceremony would take place, but also the tradition itself with all its associated customs, pageantry, and significance within the school's community.
An anc. custom among the scholars of Eton School of making a procession every third year on Whit-Tuesday to a tumulus near the Bath road, and collecting money from persons present or passing, now abolished.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Montem" derives from the Latin phrase "ad montem", which literally means "to the mountain". The term was originally used in the context of an annual event known as "Eton Montem" that took place at Eton College in England. This tradition, dating back to the 16th century, involved Eton students marching to a nearby hill called Salt Hill, where they would collect money from spectators as part of a fundraising effort. Over time, the term "Montem" became synonymous with this event and eventually came to represent the event itself.
