Even though the term “mural” has been in use since 1473, its meaning as a “wall painting” only emerged in the early 20th century. Previously, it could refer to fruit trees growing against walls, honors given to soldiers who breached enemy walls first, or any wall-related concept. The word originates from Latin “muralis,” meaning “of a wall,” which is the genitive singular form of “murus,” meaning “wall.” “Muralis” also gave rise to “intramural,” denoting activities within an institution’s walls, as opposed to “extramural” activities like varsity sports. “Murus” is believed to stem from the Proto-Italic root “moiros,” ultimately deriving from the Proto-Indo-European verb “mey,” signifying “fix” or “build fortifications.”
