noun

Athenian

uh-THEE-nee-uhn

noun

A person from Athens, Greece.

"The ancient Athenians developed one of the earliest forms of democracy."

adj

Relating to Athens, especially the historic city-state and its people, culture, or empire.

"Athenian democracy allowed citizens to vote directly on laws."

"The play draws heavily on Athenian ideas about justice."

How to Use Athenian

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishRelating to Athens or someone who comes from there, most often used when talking about ancient Greek history and philosophy.

Common pairings

Athenian democracy Athenian empire ancient Athenians

Athenians plural

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Can you complete this real example?

The ancient _____ developed one of the earliest forms of democracy.

Built from the name Athens plus the adjective ending "-ian," following the same pattern as words like "Parisian" or "Venetian."

Of related to Athens

of east

Ian Xian tian sian Qian Lian Jian Asian avian Brian stian Fabian

Of related to Athens east