English Reference

Word

byzantine

Phoneticsbyzan·tine

US/ˈbɪzənˌtaɪn/

UK/bɪzˈɑːntiːn/

Definitions

02historical empire

C1

adj. relating to the Byzantine Empire, which was the eastern part of the Roman Empire for over a thousand years.

adj. pertaining to the Eastern Roman Empire, its civilization, or its capital, Constantinople, from the 4th century until 1453.

“We studied Byzantine history and how the empire protected Europe for centuries.”

“Byzantine diplomacy was famous for its sophistication, often relying on complex alliances rather than direct military confrontation.”

Academic

03art and architecture

C2 · Science

adj. a style of building and art known for using domes, gold mosaics, and very detailed decorations.

adj. denoting a style of architecture and art characterized by the use of the round arch, domes on pendentives, and extensive mosaic decoration.

“The old church is a beautiful example of Byzantine architecture with its large central dome.”

“The cathedral's interior was adorned with Byzantine mosaics that shimmered in the candlelight, depicting saints in a rigid, formal style.”

Technical

04a person

C2

n. a person who lived in the Byzantine Empire or was from the city of Byzantium.

n. a citizen or inhabitant of the Byzantine Empire or the city of Byzantium.

“The historian wrote about how the Byzantines preserved ancient Greek texts.”

“As a Byzantine, he would have been well-versed in both Roman law and Greek philosophy.”

Formal · Academic

Etymology

From Late Latin byzantinus, from Byzantium, from Ancient Greek Βυζάντιον (Buzántion). The figurative senses evoke the reputation for palace intrigue of the Byzantine imperial court.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Domains

ArchitectureHistory

This entry

Level
C1 · Advanced
Frequency
Frequent
Updated

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English Reference