# Syracuse

/ˈsɪɹəkˌjuz/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/syracuse
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a historic city on the island of Sicily in Italy, or a city in the state of New York in the United States. It is famous for its ancient Greek history and architecture.

For teachers: a historic coastal city in Sicily, Italy, founded by ancient Greeks; also a major industrial and educational hub in central New York State. When referring to the Italian city, it often carries connotations of classical antiquity and Archimedes.

## Examples

- We spent three days exploring the ancient ruins in Syracuse.
- The university in Syracuse is well-known for its journalism program and its cold, snowy winters.
- While the modern city of Syracuse serves as a vital economic center for the region, its historical counterpart was once the most powerful Greek city-state in the Mediterranean.

## Usage notes

- Usually capitalized as a proper noun; can be used as a countable noun when referring to the different cities sharing the name.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.