Byzantine

See also: byzantine

English
WOTD – 24 November 2006

Alternative forms

Etymology

From Late Latin byzantinus, itself from Byzantium.

Pronunciation
  • (UK) IPA(key): /bɪˈzæntaɪn/, /baɪˈzæntaɪn/
  • (US) IPA(key): /ˈbɪzəntiːn/, /ˈbɪzəntaɪn/
  • Audio (US)(file)
  • Audio (US)(file)
  • Audio (AU)(file)

Adjective

Byzantine (comparative more Byzantine, superlative most Byzantine)

  1. Of or pertaining to Byzantium.
  2. (historical) Belonging to the civilization of the Eastern Roman empire between 331, when its capital was moved to Constantinople, and 1453, when that capital was conquered by the Turks and ultimately renamed Istanbul.
  3. (architecture) Of a style of architecture prevalent in the Eastern Empire down to 1453, marked by the round arch springing from columns or piers, the dome supported upon pendentives, capitals elaborately sculptured, mosaic or other encrustations, etc.
  4. Overly complex or intricate.
    a Byzantine system of regulations
  5. Of a devious, usually stealthy, manner or practice.

Derived terms

Translations
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Translations to be checked

Noun

Byzantine (plural Byzantines)

  1. (historical) A native of Byzantium (modern-day Istanbul) or of the Byzantine empire
  2. Alternative form of byzantine (coin)
  3. A dark, metallic shade of violet
    byzantine colour:  

Translations
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