Hipponactean

1 of 2

adjective

Hip·​po·​nac·​te·​an

¦hipəˌnak¦tēən,

-¦naktē-

: of or relating to Hipponax or to the verse forms ascribed to him

specifically : choliambic

Hipponactean

2 of 2

noun

"

plural -s

: a Hipponactean verse

specifically : a hypercatalectic form of glyconic

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Latin Hipponacteus of Hipponax (from Hipponact-, Hipponax, 6th century b.c. Greek poet reputed to have invented the choliamb, from Greek Hippōnakt-, Hippōnax) + English -an

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now