What is the latin root word for pencil?

There isn't a direct Latin root word for "pencil." The word "pencil" comes from the Middle English word "pencel," which means "small brush" or "painter's brush."

The word "pencel" itself is likely derived from the Old French word "pencel," which had the same meaning.

While there's no direct Latin root, the concept of writing instruments does have Latin roots:

* "Scribere" (to write) is a Latin verb that gives us words like "scribe," "script," and "inscription."

* "Calamus" (reed) is a Latin word that refers to the reeds used for writing in ancient times.

So, while "pencil" doesn't have a direct Latin root, its origins can be traced back to Latin through the evolution of words and the concept of writing.