Grecianize

/ɡrɪˈʃænəˌaɪz/ verb

Definition

To make something Greek in style, character, or language; to adopt Greek cultural practices or aesthetics.

Etymology

From 'Grecian' (relating to Greece) plus the verb-forming suffix '-ize' (from Greek '-izein'), creating a back-formation meaning to make or become Greek.

Kelly Says

During the Renaissance, European artists and scholars were obsessed with 'grecianizing' everything because Greek culture represented the height of civilization. This is why so many European buildings suddenly have Greek columns and Greek statues!

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