genius loci
Americannoun
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the guardian spirit of a place.
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the distinctive character or atmosphere of a place with reference to the impression that it makes on the mind.
noun
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the guardian spirit of a place
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the special atmosphere of a particular place
Etymology
Origin of genius loci
genius of the place
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Would Washingtonians rather live next to a structure that looks like a gigantic Martian spaceship or a work of beauty that reflects the genius loci, the spirit of the place?
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 20, 2026
Kosky is the latest in a series of innovative directors that Reese has invited to put their own spin on the works of the theater’s genius loci.
From New York Times ● Aug. 5, 2021
“The ancient Romans spoke of the genius loci, the spirit of the place - the effect a place has on one’s psyche,” wrote the Old Senate Chamber Architectural Advisory Committee.
From Washington Times ● Jul. 14, 2014
It may not be modern but it’s powerful in its genius loci.
From Salon ● Aug. 20, 2012
He is the "genius loci," the Saint venerated above all others.
From Seeing Europe with Famous Authors, Volume 8 Italy and Greece, Part Two by Halsey, Francis W. (Francis Whiting)
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
