abyssinian
|ab-ys-sin-i-an|
/ˌæbɪˈsɪniən/
Ethiopian origin
Etymology
'abyssinian' originates from the Latin 'Abyssinia', referring to the historical region in Northeast Africa, now known as Ethiopia.
'Abyssinia' was used in medieval Latin to describe the region, and it eventually became 'Abyssinian' in English to describe people or things from that area.
Initially, it referred to people from Abyssinia, but it also came to describe a breed of cat associated with the region.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a breed of domestic cat known for its distinctive ticked coat and lively personality.
The Abyssinian is one of the oldest known breeds of domesticated cats.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a native or inhabitant of Abyssinia (historical name for Ethiopia).
The Abyssinians have a rich cultural heritage.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/04/02 11:51