dithyrambic
/ˌdɪθəˈræmbɪk/
adjective
Origin
Ancient Greek
διθύραμβος — a hymn in honor of Dionysus
Overview
Meaning Now
- Relating to or resembling a dithyramb, characterized by an impassioned, wild, or highly emotional style.
- Pertaining to ancient Greek choral hymns sung and danced in honor of the god Dionysus.
Language path
Ancient Greek → Latin → French → English
Earliest form
dithyrambique
Earliest period
late 16th century
Journey
The dithyramb was originally a choral hymn sung by a group of men in honor of Dionysus. Over time, it evolved into a more sophisticated literary and musical performance, eventually serving as a precursor to Greek tragedy.
Evolution
- Ancient Greek
διθύραμβος
“choral hymn to Dionysus”
Origin uncertain, possibly related to Phrygian or other non-Greek influences.
- Latin
dithyrambus
“a Greek choral hymn”
- French
dithyrambique
“of or relating to a dithyramb”
- English
dithyrambic
“impassioned; wild; poetic”
Connections
Word parts
dithyramb
root
wild choral hymn
-ic
suffix
pertaining to
Related across languages
French
dithyrambique
dithyrambic
German
dithyrambisch
dithyrambic
Related words
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External references use DefinedTerm semantics.