philhellene
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˌfɪl.həˈliːn//
KK: /fɪlˈhɛlɪn/
adjective
Definition
Having a strong admiration or love for Greece and its culture.
Example
Many philhellene individuals support Greek art and literature.
Conversation
I just finished reading a book about ancient Greece, and it made me feel so philhellene.
That's awesome! Greece has such a rich history and culture.
I know, right? I’ve always admired their philosophy and art.
Same here! We should visit Greece someday and experience it all.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Hellenic
Greek
classical
Antonyms
anti-Greek
xenophobic
hostile
noun
Definition
A person who loves or admires Greece and its culture, especially its history and people.
Example
As a philhellene, she often attended events celebrating Greek art and literature.
Conversation
I've been reading a lot about ancient Greece lately.
That's cool! Are you becoming a philhellene now?
Definitely! I admire their culture and philosophy so much.
Root Explanation
Philhellene → It is formed from "philos" (meaning loving) and "Hellas" (the Greek name for Greece). The word "philhellene" refers to someone who loves Greek culture or Greece itself.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who 'loves' ('philos') Greece ('Hellas') — that's why a philhellene is a person who loves Greek culture.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.