matutinae

Updated: May 18, 2025

The word Matins is derived from Matuta, the Latin name for the Greek goddess of morning. It is the old name for Lauds, Laudes matutinae. The word was also used to denote the office of Vigils. Hence, the word was used in three senses, to denote the nocturns and lauds, to denote Lauds only and to denote the vigil office.

Edward J. Quigley - The Divine Office