Nicaean
|ni-cee-an|
/nɪˈsiːən/ or /naɪˈsiːən/
of or relating to Nicaea (city) / the Council of Nicaea
Etymology
'Nicaean' originates from Late Latin, specifically the word 'Nicaeanus', which derives from Latin 'Nicaea' (the city name), itself borrowed from Greek 'Νίκαια' ('Nikaia').
'Nicaean' changed from Late Latin 'Nicaeanus' > Medieval/Church Latin 'Nicaeanus' and Old French/Anglo-Latin usages, and eventually became the modern English adjective and noun 'Nicaean'.
Initially it meant 'of or from the city of Nicaea'; over time it also came to mean 'relating to the Council of Nicaea or the Nicene Creed' in theological contexts.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a native or inhabitant of Nicaea.
A Nicaean described life in the city during the Roman period.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a follower or supporter of the doctrines established at the Council of Nicaea; a Nicene Christian.
The theologian was regarded as a Nicaean for his adherence to the Creed.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 1
relating to Nicaea, the ancient city (in Bithynia; modern İznik, Turkey).
The museum displayed several Nicaean mosaics discovered near the old city.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/12/24 19:22