gnomic

¹

[ noh-mik, nom-ik ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or resembling a gnome.

gnomic

²

[ noh-mik, nom-ik ]

adjective

1. like or containing gnomes gnome or aphorisms.
2. of, relating to, or noting a writer of aphorisms, especially any of certain Greek poets.

gnomic

/ ˈnɒm-; ˈnəʊmɪk /

adjective

1. consisting of, containing, or relating to gnomes or aphorisms
2. of or relating to a writer of such sayings

Derived Forms

• ˈgnomically, adverb

Other Words From

• gnomi·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of gnomic¹

First recorded in 1805–15; gnome ¹ + -ic

Origin of gnomic²

From the Greek word gnōmikós, dating back to 1805–15. See gnome ², -ic

Example Sentences

The movie does signal its darkly comedic aims from the moment we first see the actor’s gnomic man-child frown, which by now is a ready signifier of emotional and psychological deficiency.

From Los Angeles Times

“I wished to make it reach all the way to infinity, but that’s technically impossible,” he added, laughing at himself, his habit even or especially when making gnomic pronouncements.

From New York Times

It’s slightly gnomic, this distinction, but it suggests that while Susiraja’s works can be amusing, unexpected and shocking, they are never at anyone’s expense.

From New York Times

Some of the juiciest laughs come from Sonny’s interactions with the gnomic Knight, a showboating supporting role that Affleck embraces with a sly, vacant deadpan and tragically unhip styling.

From New York Times

The Caucasus Mountains are high and terrible, and they are full of caves for gnomic tribes and nomads to hide in.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• brusque
• concise
• cryptic
• curt
• elliptical
• incisive
• laconic
• pithy
• precise
• succinct
• trenchant