saturnalia Definition
an ancient Roman festival held in December, associated with the god Saturn, during which slaves and masters would switch roles and social norms were temporarily inverted.
Using saturnalia: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "saturnalia" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
During the Saturnalia, masters would serve their slaves.
Example
The Saturnalia was a time of revelry and excess.
Example
The Saturnalia was celebrated in honor of the god Saturn.
Phrases with saturnalia
wild or unrestrained behavior, often associated with excessive drinking and partying
Example
The party turned into a Saturnalian revelry, with people dancing on tables and drinking heavily.
a type of humor that is irreverent, absurd, or mocking of authority, often associated with the inversion of social norms during the Saturnalia
Example
His jokes had a Saturnalian sense of humor, poking fun at those in power and questioning established traditions.
a festive event or celebration marked by chaos, revelry, and the temporary suspension of social norms, often inspired by the Saturnalia
Example
The street fair had a Saturnalian carnival atmosphere, with people wearing masks and costumes and engaging in all sorts of activities.
Origins of saturnalia
from Latin 'Saturnus', the Roman god of agriculture and harvest
Summary: saturnalia in Brief
The term 'saturnalia' [sætərˈneɪliə] refers to an ancient Roman festival held in December, during which social norms were temporarily inverted and slaves and masters would switch roles. It was a time of revelry and excess, celebrated in honor of the god Saturn. The phrase 'Saturnalian revelry' denotes wild and unrestrained behavior, while 'Saturnalian sense of humor' refers to a type of humor that is irreverent or mocking of authority.
