bacchanalian
|bac-cha-na-li-an|
/ˌbækəˈneɪliən/
excessive, orgiastic revelry
Etymology
'bacchanalian' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'Bacchanālia', where 'Bacchan-' referred to the god 'Bacchus' and the festivals held in his honor.
'bacchanalian' changed from Late Latin 'Bacchanālia' and Medieval Latin 'Bacchanalia' into English via Middle English borrowings referring first to the Roman rites and then to excesses associated with them.
Initially, it meant 'of or relating to the Bacchanalia (the rites of Bacchus)'; over time it broadened to mean 'characterized by drunken or orgiastic revelry.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a participant in revels of Bacchus or, more loosely, a person given to drunken or riotous revelry.
He was known as a bacchanalian who frequented the boisterous taverns of the port.
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Adjective 1
relating to Bacchus or the Roman festivals (Bacchanalia) held in his honor.
Ancient writers described the bacchanalian rites as secret ceremonies honoring the wine god.
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Adjective 2
characterized by drunkenness, riotous revelry, or unrestrained partying; orgiastic.
The gala turned into a bacchanalian affair with guests dancing on the tables.
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Last updated: 2025/12/24 12:56