lucretius: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal, Academic
Quick answer
What does “lucretius” mean?
A proper noun referring to the Roman poet and philosopher Titus Lucretius Carus (c. 99–55 BCE), author of 'De Rerum Natura' (On the Nature of Things).
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Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A proper noun referring to the Roman poet and philosopher Titus Lucretius Carus (c. 99–55 BCE), author of 'De Rerum Natura' (On the Nature of Things).
By extension, a metonym for Epicurean philosophy, materialist atomism, or classical Latin didactic poetry. Sometimes used to personify a rationalist or atheistic worldview derived from his work.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Pronunciation differs (see IPA).
Connotations
Identical academic and philosophical connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both UK and US contexts, confined to classical studies, philosophy, and literary history.
Grammar
How to Use “lucretius” in a Sentence
[Subject] discusses/interprets/cites Lucretius.Lucretius argues/posits/writes that...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “lucretius” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- A Lucretian worldview (derived adjective).
- Lucretian atomism.
American English
- Lucretian philosophy.
- A Lucretian perspective on nature.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Common in classics, philosophy, history of science, and literature departments. E.g., 'The seminar focuses on Lucretius's influence on the Renaissance.'
Everyday
Extremely rare outside educated discussion.
Technical
Used in scholarly works on Epicureanism, atomism, or Latin literature.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “lucretius”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “lucretius”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “lucretius”
- Misspelling as 'Lucrecius' or 'Lucritius'.
- Using it as a common noun (e.g., 'a lucretius').
- Confusing him with the historian Livy or other Roman writers.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Lucretius followed Epicurean philosophy, which did not deny the existence of gods but argued they were indifferent to human affairs and did not intervene in the natural world, a stance often interpreted as functional atheism.
It is a didactic poem explaining the universe through Epicurean philosophy, arguing that everything is composed of atoms and void, the soul is mortal, and the chief aim of life should be to attain peace of mind (ataraxia).
Yes, in academic writing, 'Lucretian' is the standard adjective used to describe ideas, themes, or styles pertaining to Lucretius or derived from his work.
In British English, it is typically /luːˈkriːʃəs/ (loo-KREE-shus). In American English, it is commonly /luˈkriʃəs/ (loo-KREE-shus), with a shorter first vowel.
A proper noun referring to the Roman poet and philosopher Titus Lucretius Carus (c. 99–55 BCE), author of 'De Rerum Natura' (On the Nature of Things).
Lucretius is usually formal, academic in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None standard”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Lucretius LOOKS at the CREATION of things' (from 'De Rerum Natura' – On the Nature of Things).
Conceptual Metaphor
LUCRETIUS IS A SOURCE (of philosophical insight, materialist thought).
Practice
Quiz
Lucretius is primarily known for which of the following?