Definition

A member of a group of five elected officials in ancient Sparta who had authority over the kings and other matters of governance.

Example

The ephors played a crucial role in maintaining the balance of power in Spartan society.

Conversation

Did you know that in ancient Sparta, there were five elected magistrates called ephors?

Really? What did they actually do?

They had a lot of power, even over the kings, which is pretty fascinating.

That is interesting! I had no idea that they played such a crucial role.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ephor → The word 'ephor' comes from the Greek 'ephoros' (ἐφόρος), meaning overseer or guardian. In ancient Sparta, ephors were elected officials who held significant power and were responsible for the administration of the state. The term combines 'epi-' (meaning upon) and 'horos' (meaning to see or to watch). Thus, an ephor is someone who watches over or oversees the affairs of the state.

Memory Tip

Think of an 'overseer' ('ephoros') who is 'watching over' ('epi-' means upon and 'horos' means to see) the governance of a community.

Visually Confused Words