Pliny

[ plin-ee ]

noun

1. the ElderGaius Plinius Secundus, a.d. 23–79, Roman naturalist, encyclopedist, and writer.
2. his nephew ( “the Younger,” Gaius Plinius Caecilius Secundus ) a.d. 62?–c113, Roman writer, statesman, and orator.

Pliny

/ ˈplɪnɪ /

noun

1. Pliny2379MRomanWRITING: writer known as Pliny the Elder. Latin name Gaius Plinius Secundus. 23–79 ad , Roman writer, the author of the encyclopedic Natural History (77)
2. Pliny?62?113MRomanWRITING: writerPOLITICS: administrator his nephew, known as Pliny the Younger. Latin name Gaius Plinius Caecilius Secundus. ?62–?113 ad , Roman writer and administrator, noted for his letters

Other Words From

• Plini·an adjective

Example Sentences

Two thousand years ago, the Roman philosopher Pliny the Elder described a man named Pomponius who could not belch.

From Salon

Writings by Pliny the Elder and others testify to the medicinal use of black henbane seeds and leaves, but warn that an overindulgence will result in mind-altering effects.

From New York Times

For instance, Pliny the Elder, the ancient Roman author and philosopher, developed 27 different medical remedies using onions, ranging from curing bad vision and insomnia, to healing dysentery, mouth sores and toothaches.

From Salon

The Middle Ages scientific authority Pliny the Elder wrote 2,000 years ago that hailstorms, whirlwinds and lightning could be “scared away” by a woman “uncovering her body while her monthly courses are upon her.”

From Salon

Ancient scholars also warned against taking too much because of the potential for hallucinogenic effects; Pliny counseled physicians to avoid it entirely.

From Science Magazine