Pythian Games

plural noun

1. one of the great national festivals of ancient Greece, held every four years at Delphi in honor of Apollo.

Pythian Games

plural noun

1. (in ancient Greece) the second most important Panhellenic festival, celebrated in the third year of each Olympiad near Delphi. The four-year period between celebrations was known as a Pythiad ( ˈpɪθɪˌæd )

Word History and Origins

Origin of Pythian Games¹

First recorded in 1595–1605

Example Sentences

Their performance included a hymn to the god Apollo, pieces played at the musical festival of the ancient Pythian Games in Delphi and during wine-laden rituals to the god Dionysus.

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According to myth, the god Apollo started these games at Delphi after killing Python, the dragon living there; hence, they were named the Pythian Games in recognition of this act.

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The most renowned among the numerous festivals held in honor of Apollo were, without exception, the Pythian Games, celebrated at Delphi every three years.

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The Pythian Games survived the classic Greek period and were continued under Roman sway until about A.D.

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In a few days the Pythian Games will come round, and the convention of the Hellenic States will hold its sessions.

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