Epithet
/ˈɛp.ɪ.θɛt/noun
A descriptive term or phrase expressing a quality or characteristic of someone or something.
Did you know?In ancient Greece, epithets often invoked the favor of deities, transforming mere words into powerful charms of protection and identity.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἐπίθετον (epítheton)
“Something added or placed upon, usually as a descriptive term.”
1st Century
Latin
epitheton
“A term used to denote an attribute or quality.”
Middle English
Middle English
epithet
“A term borrowed from Latin, retaining the sense of a descriptive phrase.”
Modern English
English
epithet
“A descriptive phrase used to characterize someone or something, often bearing emotional weight.”
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