Anarthrous

/ænˈɑrθrəs/ adjective

Definition

In linguistics or theology, lacking the article (such as 'a' or 'the'); also meaning without joints or articulations.

Etymology

From Greek 'an-' (not) + 'arthron' (joint, articulation) + '-ous' (adjective suffix). In grammar, it refers to nouns appearing without definite or indefinite articles.

Kelly Says

Anarthrous is a delightfully specific grammar term—when the Bible says 'the Word was God' versus 'Word was God,' the difference is whether 'God' is 'anarthrous' (without an article). Ancient Greek scholars used joint-related terminology to describe grammar because they saw articles as the 'joints' connecting words together.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.