Langimage
English

arabian

|a/ra/bi/an|

B1

/əˈreɪ.bi.ən/

of or from Arabia

Etymology
Etymology Information

'Arabian' originates from Late Latin 'Arabianus', formed from Latin 'Arabia' meaning 'Arabia' (the region).

Historical Evolution

'Arabian' changed from Latin 'Arabianus' into Middle English forms (via Old French and Medieval Latin usage) and eventually became the modern English adjective and noun 'Arabian'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'of or from Arabia'; over time the word retained that primary meaning but also came to be used specifically for the well-known horse breed 'Arabian'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a person from Arabia or of Arabian descent; an inhabitant of the Arabian Peninsula (less commonly used than 'Arab').

The museum had portraits of several Arabians from the region.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a horse of the Arabian breed, noted for its endurance, intelligence, and distinctive head shape.

She owns an Arabian that performs well in endurance races.

Synonyms

Adjective 1

relating to Arabia (the Arabian Peninsula) or its people, culture, language, or characteristics.

They studied Arabian art and architecture.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/09/30 16:10