Nicaea
/nɪˈsiː.ə/noun
An ancient city in Bithynia, best known for the First and Second Councils of Nicaea.
Did you know?Nicaea’s name is traditionally linked to Greek Nike, the goddess of victory, which is why the city’s identity has long been wrapped in the language of triumph and power.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
Νίκαια (Níkaia)
“The name of a city in Bithynia, associated in tradition with victory.”
Hellenistic Period
Greek
Νίκαια
“A major civic and royal city in northwestern Anatolia.”
Roman Period
Latin
Nicaea
“The Latinized form of the city name used in Roman administration and Christian sources.”
4th Century
Greek/Latin
Nicaea
“The city where the First Council of Nicaea was held in 325 CE.”
Modern English
English
Nicaea
“The historical name used in church history and classical studies.”