atticism

[ at-uh-siz-uhm ]

noun

, (often initial capital letter)

1. the style or idiom of Attic Greek occurring in another dialect or language.
2. attachment to Athens or to the style, customs, etc., of the Athenians.
3. concise and elegant expression, diction, or the like.

Atticism

/ ˈætɪˌsɪzəm /

noun

1. the idiom or character of the Attic dialect of Ancient Greek, esp in the Hellenistic period
2. an elegant, simple, and clear expression

Derived Forms

• ˈAtticist, noun

Other Words From

• atti·cist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of atticism¹

First recorded in 1605–15, atticism is from the Greek word Attikismós a siding with Athens, an Attic expression. See Attic, -ism

Example Sentences

Atticism: because he is here imitating a well-known passage in Demosthenes's speech against schines.Keightley.

From Project Gutenberg

This last has especially charmed me; it is remarkable for grace, delicacy, atticism, and precision.

From Project Gutenberg

The style of this gem of a novel is finely cut, clear and beautiful in its pure Atticism.

From Project Gutenberg

His style is pure and simple, and ancient critics praise his “Atticism.”

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• grandeur