adj
paphian
Paphian (adj) means Connected with Paphos, a town on Cyprus linked in myth to the birth of the goddess of love.
adj
1
Connected with Paphos, a town on Cyprus linked in myth to the birth of the goddess of love.
2
Relating to love or sexual desire, particularly of an illicit kind.
"People passed, but they held me not. Paphian eyes rayed upon me, and left me unscathed."
— O. Henry, Man About Town (1906)
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Etymology
Made up of Latin Paphius (itself from Ancient Greek Πάφιος (Páphios), from Πάφος (Páphos, "Paphos") plus -ιος (-ios)) with the English suffix -an added.
Rhymes for paphian
See all rhymes for paphian →Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of paphian?
"paphian" (adj) means connected with Paphos, a town on Cyprus linked in myth to the birth of the goddess of love.
What are the different meanings of paphian?
"paphian" has 2 main meanings: 1. Connected with Paphos, a town on Cyprus linked in myth to the birth of the goddess of love; 2. Relating to love or sexual desire, particularly of an illicit kind.
