PATRICIAN Meaning and
Definition
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Patrician is a noun that refers to an individual belonging to the highest class or nobility in ancient Rome, or someone who exhibits the characteristics associated with this privileged class. The term is derived from the Latin word "patricius," which denotes a member of the patres or the original senators of Rome.
In Roman society, the patricians were the aristocracy and held significant power and influence over political, social, and economic matters. They typically came from families that had long-established lineage and had great wealth. Patricians were known to possess a sense of superiority and often held important positions within the government or held titles like consul or senator.
The term patrician can also be used more broadly to describe someone who embodies the refined and cultivated qualities historically associated with the Roman aristocracy. Such an individual is characterized by their sophistication, manners, refined taste, and elegance. In this sense, it refers to those possessing a certain elevated social standing, often associated with wealth and culture.
Today, the usage of the word patrician extends beyond ancient Rome and can apply to any society where a similar privileged class exists. The term may indicate social status, refined tastes, or aristocratic lineage. Additionally, it can be employed to describe a person who possesses an air of nobility, grace, and sophistication regardless of their societal standing.
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• In anc. Rome, one of the nobility.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PATRICIAN
Etymology of PATRICIAN
The word "patrician" has its origins in the Latin word "patricius", which referred to a member of the ancient Roman patrician class. The Latin term itself originated from "pater", meaning "father". In ancient Rome, the patricians were the privileged, aristocratic class that claimed descent from the earliest founders of the city. Over time, the term "patrician" expanded in usage to more broadly refer to the upper class or noble families in various societies.
Similar spelling words for PATRICIAN
- Patristics,
- Patricio,
- patrick,
- patristic,
- patricentric,
- Patterson,
- patrikin,
- patricide,
- Patrice,
- patristical,
- Patrica,
- Patricia.
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