Words in English that end in “-us” and pluralize to “-i” are from Latin, such as cactus/cacti or focus/foci. However, “octopus” is from Greek, and its correct pluralization from Greek would be “octopodes.” In English, we have also adopted “octopuses,” which fits our standard pluralization rules.
So, “octopi” is actually a language mix up, though one that’s so common that it seems to be accepted in English.
Also correct. Octopii, too
Words in English that end in “-us” and pluralize to “-i” are from Latin, such as cactus/cacti or focus/foci. However, “octopus” is from Greek, and its correct pluralization from Greek would be “octopodes.” In English, we have also adopted “octopuses,” which fits our standard pluralization rules.
So, “octopi” is actually a language mix up, though one that’s so common that it seems to be accepted in English.
Octoplenty
Octoplural
Actually, octopi is the “erroneous” one. Although it is a very common mistake so might make the shift to recognised before too much longer.
Everyone still understands it, so it doesn’t matter.
Now I wonder how Octopie tastes like. It’s probably related to seafood pizza. 🫠
IMO it’s tragic to eat such an intelligent creature. Maybe stick to these guys…? Mmmm.
Seafood, eat it