roman nose
C1Formal / Literary
Definition
Meaning
A nose with a high, prominent, often convex bridge, thought to resemble the noses found in classical Roman sculpture.
A term used in physiognomy and physical description, sometimes associated with perceived character traits like nobility, authority, or strength, though these associations are antiquated and subjective.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
This is a specific, descriptive term for a physical feature. While it originated in a context that linked physical appearance to character (physiognomy), modern usage is almost purely descriptive of shape. It is not inherently positive or negative, though historical connotations may linger.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. The term is understood and used similarly in both varieties.
Connotations
May carry a slightly more historical or literary feel in both varieties.
Frequency
Low frequency in everyday speech in both regions; more common in written descriptions, historical texts, or discussions of art/phrenology.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] + have/has + a roman nose.[Subject] + be + described as having a roman nose.His/Her most striking feature was his/her roman nose.Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[None directly associated. The term itself is descriptive.]”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Extremely rare and irrelevant.
Academic
Used in art history, classics, anthropology, and historical studies when describing portraits, sculptures, or physical anthropology (often critically, noting outdated theories).
Everyday
Very rare. Might be used in a descriptive or slightly joking manner when commenting on someone's appearance.
Technical
Used in anthropology (historically) and artistic anatomy as a descriptive classifier for nasal shape.
Examples
By Part of Speech
adjective
British English
- His roman-nosed profile was unmistakable in the silhouette.
American English
- The old general had a distinctly roman-nosed appearance.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The man in the painting has a big, curved nose.
- The historical portrait showed a nobleman with a distinctive roman nose.
- Anthropologists of the 19th century often erroneously associated the roman nose with qualities of leadership and intellect.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a Roman emperor on an old coin—his profile usually shows a strong, curved nose. 'Roman' nose = nose like a Roman statue.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE NOSE IS A STATUE / THE FACE IS A CLASSICAL SCULPTURE. (Maps the physical ideal of classical art onto a human feature.)
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct calques like *римский нос*. While understood, the standard Russian equivalent is "орлиный нос" (aquiline/eagle nose) or "нос с горбинкой" (nose with a hump/bump).
Common Mistakes
- Capitalising it as 'Roman Nose' in the middle of a sentence (it is not a proper noun unless part of a name).
- Using it to mean any large nose (it specifies a high-bridged, often convex shape).
- Confusing it with 'Grecian nose' (which is typically straighter).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the best synonym for 'roman nose' in a descriptive context?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a neutral descriptive term. Historically it was associated with nobility, but today it simply describes a nose shape without a strong positive or negative value.
They are largely synonymous. 'Aquiline' (from the Latin for 'eagle-like') is perhaps more common in literary use and emphasizes the curved hook, while 'roman' references the classical sculpture ideal. In practice, they describe the same feature.
It is not inherently offensive, but like any comment on a person's physical appearance, it should be used sensitively and appropriately. It is best used in descriptive writing rather than casual personal remark.
No. In medical (otolaryngology/plastic surgery) contexts, specific anatomical terms like 'dorsal hump' or 'high radix' are used. 'Roman nose' is a layman's or artistic term.