byzantium

[bɪˈzæntiəm]

byzantium Definition

  • 1the Byzantine Empire or its capital city Constantinople
  • 2a place or situation of great complexity, confusion, or intrigue

Using byzantium: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "byzantium" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The Byzantium Empire lasted for over a thousand years.

  • Example

    The Byzantium mosaics are famous for their intricate designs.

  • Example

    The political situation was a Byzantium of conflicting interests and alliances.

byzantium Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for byzantium

Idioms Using byzantium

  • a complex and confusing situation or system that is difficult to navigate

    Example

    The new tax laws are a Byzantium maze that even experts find hard to understand.

  • a problem or situation that is difficult to solve or unravel

    Example

    The conflict between the two countries is a Byzantium knot that has defied resolution for decades.

  • a person who is skilled at navigating complex social and political situations, especially at a royal court

    Example

    The ambassador was a Byzantium courtier who knew how to flatter and manipulate his hosts.

Phrases with byzantium

  • a type of mosaic art characterized by intricate designs and patterns, often featuring religious or historical themes

    Example

    The Byzantium mosaic in the church was breathtakingly beautiful.

  • a style of architecture developed during the Byzantine Empire, characterized by domes, arches, and intricate decoration

    Example

    The Hagia Sophia is a masterpiece of Byzantium architecture.

  • Byzantium court

    the royal court of the Byzantine Empire, known for its elaborate ceremonies and intrigues

    Example

    The Byzantium court was a hotbed of political intrigue and power struggles.

Origins of byzantium

from Late Latin 'Byzantium', from Ancient Greek 'Byzantion', the name of a city in Thrace, later renamed 'Constantinople'

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Summary: byzantium in Brief

The term 'byzantium' [bɪˈzæntiəm] refers to the Byzantine Empire or its capital city Constantinople, which lasted for over a thousand years. It also denotes a place or situation of great complexity, confusion, or intrigue, as in 'The political situation was a Byzantium of conflicting interests and alliances.' 'Byzantium' extends into phrases like 'Byzantium court,' and idioms like 'a Byzantium maze,' denoting a complex and confusing situation.