bacchanal
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˌbækəˈnæl/
KK: /bækəˈnæl/
adjective
Definition
Relating to the ancient Roman festival of Bacchus, which involved drinking, dancing, and revelry.
Example
The party had a bacchanal atmosphere, filled with music and laughter.
Conversation
Did you hear about the party at Jake's house this weekend?
Yeah, I heard it's going to be quite a bacchanal celebration!
I can't wait to see what they have planned for us.
It's going to be fun! I love when parties have that bacchanal vibe.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
festive
drunken
riotous
Antonyms
sober
restrained
calm
noun
Definition
A wild and noisy party or celebration, often involving drinking and dancing.
Example
The festival turned into a bacchanal, with music and laughter filling the streets.
Conversation
Did you hear about the huge party downtown?
Yeah, they called it a real bacchanal this time!
I can only imagine how wild it got.
Root Explanation
Bacchanal → It is derived from 'Bacchus' (the Roman god of wine and revelry) and the suffix '-al' (meaning pertaining to). The word 'bacchanal' refers to a festival or celebration related to Bacchus, often characterized by wild and drunken revelry.
Memory Tip
Imagine a lively festival dedicated to Bacchus, the god of wine, where people celebrate with joy and abandon — that's what a bacchanal is all about.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.