Definition

The term refers to the countries located in the western part of the world, particularly Europe and the Americas.

Example

Many cultures from the Occident have influenced modern art and philosophy.

Conversation

I’ve always been curious about the cultures in the occident.

Yeah, there’s so much variety in the West, it’s fascinating.

I wonder how different life would be if I lived in the occident.

It would definitely be an interesting experience to explore.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Occident is derived from "occidens" (meaning setting or falling) from the Latin root "occidere" (meaning to fall or to die). The term originally referred to the direction where the sun sets, hence the west.

Memory Tip

Think of the sun 'setting' ('occidens') in the west, which helps you remember that 'occident' refers to the western part of the world.

Visually Confused Words