Miletian
|mi-le-ti-an|
/mɪˈliːtiən/
of/from Miletus; of the Milesian school
Etymology
'Miletian' originates from Latin/Medieval Latin, specifically the word 'Miletensis', ultimately from the Ancient Greek place-name 'Miletos' (Μίλητος).
'Miletian' changed from the Medieval Latin word 'Miletensis', derived from Latin 'Miletus' and Greek 'Miletos', and eventually became the modern English adjective/noun 'Miletian'.
Initially, it meant 'of or from Miletus' (a geographic origin), but over time it also came to be used for matters relating to the Milesian school of early Greek philosophers; both senses persist.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a native or inhabitant of the ancient city of Miletus (in Ionia, Anatolia).
Several ancient Miletian inscriptions have been found by archaeologists.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a member or follower of the Milesian school of pre-Socratic philosophers (for example Thales, Anaximander, Anaximenes).
Early Miletian thinkers sought natural explanations for cosmic phenomena.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
relating to Miletus or to the Milesian school (its people, culture, or philosophy).
Miletian colonies were influential across the Aegean in the Archaic period.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/10/05 20:47