theotokion

noun

theo·​to·​kion
ˌtheȯˈtȯˌkyȯn,
-tȯˈkēˌȯn
plural theotokia
-(ˌ)kyä,
-ˈkē(ˌ)ä
: a hymn of the Eastern Church ascribing praise to the Virgin Mary as the Mother of God and forming the final troparion of a canonical ode

Word History

Etymology

Middle Greek, from Late Greek theotokos bearer of God (epithet of the Virgin Mary), from Greek the- + -tokos (from tiktein to bear, beget)

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

Dictionary Entries Near theotokion

Cite this Entry

“Theotokion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theotokion. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!