pignus amoris

English

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin pignus amōris.

Noun

pignus amoris (plural pignora amoris)

1. A gift or keepsake that is symbolic of a love relationship; a love token.
   • 1877, Edward H. Sieveking, “The Harveian Oration”, in British Medical Journal:

     Dr. Farre has within a few days presented to the College, with his portrait, a most valuable library of ancient and modern works […] I am sure I may challenge all associates to give or bequeath to it similar pignora amoris

2. (euphemistic) A love child.
   • 1929, Flora Grierson, The Tale of the Two Lovers (Introduction):

     In 1435 he visited Scotland, and left behind him a pignus amoris which fortunately died