What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
eikon
Example
The eikon of Saint Nicholas was displayed in the church for veneration. [eikon: noun]
Example
I clicked on the eikon to open the application. [eikon: noun]
Example
The painting was an eikon of the artist's wife. [eikon: adjective]
icon
Example
The icon of the Virgin Mary was placed on the altar for worship. [icon: noun]
Example
Elvis Presley is an icon of rock and roll music. [icon: noun]
Example
Click on the icon to open the application. [icon: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Icon is more commonly used than eikon in everyday language, especially in Western countries. Icon is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while eikon is less common and refers to a specific type of religious image in the Eastern Orthodox Church.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between eikon and icon?
Both eikon and icon can be used in formal and informal contexts, but eikon may be more formal due to its association with religious imagery and its less common usage in everyday language.
