Kythira
/ˈkɪθɪrə/
noun
Origin
Ancient Greek
Κύθηρα — Possessing a hidden or secret nature
Overview
Meaning Now
- A Greek island located at the junction of the Ionian, Aegean, and Cretan seas.
Language path
Ancient Greek → Medieval Greek → Modern Greek
Earliest form
Κύθηρα
Earliest period
8th century BCE
Journey
Kythira has a long history due to its strategic position on maritime trade routes. It was often caught between the interests of the Ionian Islands and mainland Greece. In mythology, it is famously associated with the birth of Aphrodite, often called 'Cytherea' after the island.
Evolution
- Ancient Greek (8th c. BCE)
Κύθηρα
“Island of Kythira”
- Medieval Greek
Τσιρίγο
“Kythira (under Venetian influence)”
Commonly known as Cerigo in Western sources
- Modern Greek
Κύθηρα
“Island of Kythira”
Connections
Related across languages
Latin
Cythera
Kythira
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Related to Kythira
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.