Pythian

[ pith-ee-uhn ]

adjective

1. Also Pythic. of or relating to Delphi, in ancient Greece.
2. of or relating to Apollo, with reference to his oracle at Delphi.

noun

1. a Pythian priestess.

Pythian

/ ˈpɪθɪən /

adjective

1. of or relating to Delphi or its oracle

noun

1. the priestess of Apollo at the oracle of Delphi
2. an inhabitant of ancient Delphi

Word History and Origins

Origin of Pythian¹

1590–1600; < Latin Pȳthi ( us ) (< Greek Pȳ́thios of Delphi and the oracle) + -an

Word History and Origins

Origin of Pythian¹

C16: via Latin Pӯthius from Greek Puthios of Delphi

Example Sentences

A noble sisterly affection is in Wilhelmina; shrill Pythian vehemence trying the impossible.

From Project Gutenberg

As the time for the Pythian games had now come round, Demetrius took upon himself to make a most startling innovation.

From Project Gutenberg

Her physicians at last warned her that her health required her to use the Pythian warm baths.

From Project Gutenberg

From time to time he frowned and stared at the ceiling, moving his lips in silent speech like a priest of the Pythian oracle.

From Project Gutenberg

And lastly there was an order issued to all the Thessalians to be ready for a campaign at the date of the Pythian games.

From Project Gutenberg