philistine
Philistine (noun) means a person seen as indifferent or hostile to art, literature, and culture, and who has conventional or unrefined tastes. Example: “He was mocked as a philistine for never having read a novel.”
How to use philistine
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA dismissive word for someone thought to lack taste or interest in art, culture, or ideas.
A somewhat literary, faintly snobbish put-down — used more in writing and educated conversation than everyday speech.
Word forms
more philistine comparative, philistines plural, most philistine superlative
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He was mocked as a _____ for never having read a novel.
Etymology
Derived from "Philistine" (the ancient people of Philistia), by way of a German university slang term used to mock outsiders who cared nothing for academic or artistic culture.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for philistine
See all rhymes for philistine →Frequently asked questions
What does “philistine” mean?
The word “philistine” means a person seen as indifferent or hostile to art, literature, and culture, and who has conventional or unrefined tastes. In plain terms, a dismissive word for someone thought to lack taste or interest in art, culture, or ideas.
How do you pronounce “philistine”?
“Philistine” is pronounced FIH-lihs-tyn (/ˈfɪlɪˌstaɪn/ in IPA).
How do you use “philistine” in a sentence?
Here is “philistine” used in a sentence: “He was mocked as a philistine for never having read a novel.”
What part of speech is “philistine”?
Depending on how it is used, “philistine” can be a noun and an adjective.
Where does the word “philistine” come from?
The word “philistine” comes from German. Derived from "Philistine" (the ancient people of Philistia), by way of a German university slang term used to mock outsiders who cared nothing for academic or artistic culture.
How many meanings does “philistine” have?
“Philistine” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a person seen as indifferent or hostile to art, literature, and culture, and who has conventional or unrefined tastes.
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