Ciceronian

[ sis-uh-roh-nee-uhn ]

adjective

1. of or relating to Cicero or his writings:

   the Ciceronian orations.

2. in the style of Cicero: characterized by melodious language, clarity, and forcefulness of presentation:

   Ciceronian invective.

noun

1. a person who is an expert on or specializes in the study of the works of Cicero.
2. a person who admires or imitates the style of Cicero.

Ciceronian

/ ˌsɪsəˈrəʊnɪən /

adjective

1. of or resembling Cicero or his rhetorical style; eloquent
2. (of literary style) characterized by the use of antithesis and long periods

Other Words From

• pseudo-Cice·roni·an adjective noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of Ciceronian¹

First recorded in 1660–70; from Latin Cicerōniānus, equivalent to Cicerōn- (stem of Cicerō ) Cicero + -iānus -ian

Example Sentences

Whereas Jackson tended toward a more volatile and pulpit-thumping style reminiscent of an itinerant Presbyterian minister in the revivalistic mode, Smith preferred the more measured cadences of the South Carolina aristocrat steeped in Ciceronian formalities.

From Literature

The motif had become so commonplace that John Adams, an aspiring Cicero himself, claimed that the Virginians had worn out the entire Ciceronian syndrome: “It seems the Mode of becoming great is to retire,” he wrote Abigail in 1796.

From Literature

Adams, however, despite all his vows of Ciceronian serenity, was congenitally incapable of staying in character.

From Literature

Both Adams and Jefferson knew their roles by heart, especially in its Ciceronian version as a pair of retired patriarchs now beyond ambition and above controversy.

From Literature

Ogilvie would take to the stage in a toga, orating for three hours in a formal Ciceronian style later adopted by senators and heads of state.

From New York Times