Byzantine (Adjective)
Meaning 1
Highly complex or intricate and occasionally devious; "the Byzantine tax structure"; "Byzantine methods for holding on to his chairmanship"; "convoluted legal language"; "convoluted reasoning"; "the plot was too involved"; "a knotty problem"; "got his way by labyrinthine maneuvering"; "Oh, what a tangled web we weave"- Sir Walter Scott; "tortuous legal procedures"; "tortuous negotiations lasting for months".
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Examples
- The Byzantine politics of the ancient empire continue to fascinate historians with its intricate web of alliances and rivalries.
- Her convoluted financial reports were notoriously difficult to decipher, hiding numerous inconsistencies and irregularities.
- The new healthcare law has a Byzantine system for calculating insurance premiums, leaving many people bewildered.
- After years of dealing with the labyrinthine bureaucracy, the company finally received its license to operate in the foreign market.
- His rise to power was facilitated by Byzantine machinations and a network of carefully cultivated connections within the party.
Synonyms
Meaning 2
Of or relating to or characteristic of the Byzantine Empire or the ancient city of Byzantium.
Classification
Relational adjectives (pertainyms).
Examples
- The Byzantine architecture of the Hagia Sophia is a testament to the engineering skills of the ancient Greeks.
- The Byzantine Empire was known for its complex system of government and bureaucracy.
- The intricate mosaics that adorn the walls of the Byzantine church are a marvel of artistic skill.
- The Byzantine historian Procopius wrote extensively about the reign of Emperor Justinian.
- The city of Istanbul was once the capital of the Byzantine Empire, and its legacy can still be seen in the city's architecture and culture.
Related Words
Meaning 3
Of or relating to the Eastern Orthodox Church or the rites performed in it; "Byzantine monks"; "Byzantine rites".
Classification
Relational adjectives (pertainyms).
Examples
- The intricate mosaics in the church reflected the Byzantine tradition of rich and elaborate decorations.
- Byzantine chant, a distinctive and melodious style, is an essential part of Orthodox worship.
- The beautiful icon of the Virgin Mary, crafted in the Byzantine style, adorned the church altar.
- During his studies, he delved deep into the history and rituals of the Byzantine church.
- In its architecture, the ancient cathedral showcased a unique blend of Romanesque and Byzantine styles.