bacchic
|bac-chic|
/ˈbækɪk/
relating to Bacchus; orgiastic revelry
Etymology
'bacchic' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'Bacchicus', where the root referred to 'Bacchus' (the god of wine).
'bacchic' derives from Latin 'Bacchicus', which comes from Greek 'Bakkhos' (Βάκχος); the name of the god Bakkhos/Bacchus passed into Latin and then into English as the adjective 'bacchic'.
Initially it meant 'of or pertaining to Bacchus', but over time it broadened to mean 'relating to riotous, orgiastic revelry' and anything resembling such excess.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
of or relating to Bacchus (the Roman god of wine) or to the Bacchanalia.
The ancient plays included bacchic rites honoring the god of wine.
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Adjective 2
characterized by or given to drunken revelry, orgiastic or frenzied celebration.
The sculpture captured a bacchic, orgiastic energy that suggested wild feasting and dance.
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Last updated: 2025/12/24 17:08