Pronunciation: [sˈafɪk] (IPA) 
Sapphic is a term that is often used in literature and poetry to describe a type of verse form or theme related to female same-sex love. The spelling of the word is unique, with a double 'p' and a 'c' at the end. It is pronounced /ˈsæfɪk/, where the first syllable is stressed, and the 'ph' is pronounced as an 'f' sound. The word comes from the Greek poet Sappho, who was known for writing about love between women.
Sapphic refers to something that is related to the ancient Greek poet Sappho or reminiscent of her poetic style. It can also describe a type of poetry or literature that focuses on the love and relationships between women. Sappho, known as one of the greatest lyric poets of ancient times, hailed from the island of Lesbos in the 7th century BCE, and her poems often expressed her romantic and emotional connections with other women.
In contemporary usage, the term "sapphic" has expanded beyond its original context to encompass broader meanings related to same-sex female desire, love, or intimacy. It can refer to literature, art, culture, or any form of media that features or explores the experiences and relationships of lesbian or queer women. Sapphic can be used as an adjective to describe characters, themes, or narratives that revolve around same-sex female romantic or sexual attraction.
Additionally, "sapphic" is commonly used as a label within the LGBTQ+ community to specifically denote women who express a romantic or sexual preference for other women. It highlights and acknowledges this identity as a reflection of same-sex female desire, love, or orientation.
Overall, the term "sapphic" carries historical and contemporary connotations centered around the poetry of Sappho, the experiences of lesbian women, or any form of art, expression, or identity that embraces or explores same-sex female romantic, emotional, or sexual connections.
Pert. to Sappho, an anc. Grecian poetess; pert. to a certain kind of verse.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Sapphic" is derived from the Greek poet Sappho, who lived on the island of Lesbos in the 7th century BCE. Sappho was renowned for her lyric poetry, much of which expressed love and desire for other women.
During ancient times, Sappho and her fellow female residents of Lesbos were sometimes referred to as "Lesbians", and their love and desire for women became associated with the term "lesbianism". Later, as interest in Sappho and her work grew during the 19th and 20th centuries, the term "Sapphic" also came into use to describe same-sex love or desire between women.
Today, "Sapphic" is often used as an adjective to describe anything related to lesbianism, female same-sex attraction, or poetry inspired by Sappho's style.
