Attic
See also: attic
English
WOTD – 6 September 2015
Etymology
From Latin Atticus, from Ancient Greek Ἀττικός (Attikós), from some Pre-Greek demonym or toponym for Athens and its hinterland of Attica + -ικός (-ikós, “-ic: forming adjectives”). Equivalent to a modified and clipped Athens + -ic. Doublet of Atticus.
Pronunciation
- IPA(key): /ˈætɪk/
Audio (General Australian): (file) - Rhymes: -ætɪk
- Homophone: attic
Adjective
Attic (comparative more Attic, superlative most Attic)
- (historical) Of or related to Attica, ancient Athens and its hinterland, particularly:
- Synonym of Athenian, of or related to the culture of ancient Athens.
- (architecture) Of or related to ancient Athenian architecture.
- (linguistics) Of or related to Attic Greek.
- (figurative) Marked by the qualities traditionally considered characteristic of the ancient Athenians: classical, refined.
Derived terms
- Attic base
- Attic salt
Translations
Proper noun
Attic
- Clipping of Attic Greek, the dialect of Ancient Greek spoken in Attica, Euboea, and the northern coast of the Aegean Sea.