symposiarch

Definitions

  • WordNet 3.6
    • n symposiarch the person who proposes toasts and introduces speakers at a banquet
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Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
    • n Symposiarch (Gr. Antiq) The master of a feast.
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Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia
    • n symposiarch In Greek antiquity, the president, director, or manager of a symposium or drinking-party; hence, in modern usage, one who presides at a symposium, or the leading spirit of a convivial gathering: applied somewhat familiarly, chiefly with reference to the meetings of noted wits, or literary or learned persons of recognized consequence; specifically, the toast-master of such banquets.
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Etymology

Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
Gr. , ; a symposium + to be first, to rule

Usage

In literature:

Olympius had risen from his place as Symposiarch and was leaning against a door-post awaiting death with manly composure.
"Serapis, Complete" by Georg Ebers
Symposiarch I o'er all preside, The Pidding of the fragrant tide.
"Punch, or the London Charivari, Vol. 1, August 7, 1841" by Various
Symposiarch I o'er all preside, The Pidding of the fragrant tide.
"Punch, or the London Charivari, Volume 1, Complete" by Various
The symposiarch, or arbiter bibendi, settled the proportions to be used.
"Plutarch's Morals" by Plutarch
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