Ever stared at a calendar or a history book and wondered, “What does A.D. actually mean?” You’re not alone! This little abbreviation pops up everywhere, from ancient timelines to modern history lessons, but most people just accept it without a second thought. Today, we’re diving into what A.D. really stands for—and why it matters more than you might think. The Origins of A.D. A.D. is short for the Latin phrase Anno Domini , which translates to “in the year of our Lord.” It’s used to label or number years in the Gregorian calendar, the system most of the world follows today. Anno Domini was introduced in the 6th century by a monk named Dionysius Exiguus. His goal was to create a calendar system centered on the birth of Jesus Christ. Years before A.D. are labeled B.C., which stands for “Before Christ.” The system gradually replaced older methods of numbering years, like the Roman Ab urbe condita (“from the founding of the city”). Why A.D. Is Still Relevant Today Even ...