epithet
|ep-i-thet|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˈɛpɪˌθɛt/
🇬🇧
/ˈɛpɪθɛt/
descriptive term
Etymology
Etymology Information
'epithet' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'epitheton,' where 'epi-' meant 'upon' and 'tithenai' meant 'to place.'
Historical Evolution
'epitheton' transformed into the Latin word 'epitheton,' and eventually became the modern English word 'epithet' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'something added,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'descriptive term or phrase.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a descriptive term or phrase expressing a quality or attribute regarded as characteristic of the person or thing mentioned.
Homer often used epithets like 'swift-footed Achilles' in his epics.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/06/14 00:55