σεβαστό
Wordform Details
Translation: respectedvenerablerevered
Part of Speech: adjective
Inflection Type:
masculinesingularaccusativeIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: σεβαστός
Translation: respectable; venerable; revered; honorable; esteemed (adjective)
Etymology: From ancient Greek σεβαστός, derived from σέβας (reverence, awe) + the suffix -τός indicating a passive quality. The root σέβ- is related to the verb σέβομαι (to revere, worship). Historically, Σεβαστός was the Greek translation of the Latin title 'Augustus' used for Roman emperors, literally meaning 'the revered one.' The English word 'Sebastian' comes from the same root via Latin Sebastianus, meaning 'from Sebaste' (a city named after Augustus). This connection to imperial reverence gives the word its dignified, formal character.
Example Usage
Ο σεβαστός καθηγητής έχει πολλές δημοσιεύσεις.
The respected professor has many publications.
Η γνώμη του είναι σεβαστή από όλους στην κοινότητα.
His opinion is respected by everyone in the community.
Οι σεβαστοί γέροντες του χωριού συγκεντρώθηκαν για να συζητήσουν.
The venerable elders of the village gathered to discuss.
Ο σεβαστός καθηγητής μας δίδαξε για χρόνια.
Our respected professor taught us for years.
Είναι σεβαστός άνθρωπος στην κοινότητα.
He is a respectable person in the community.
Η σεβαστή ηλικία του του δίνει σοφία.
His venerable age gives him wisdom.
Mnemonics
- Think 'Sebastian' - a saint's name suggesting reverence
- Remember 'severe + vast' - someone so impressive they command serious, vast respect
- Connect to 'sabbath' - a day held sacred and revered
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Often used in formal contexts, religious settings, or when speaking about elderly people, authority figures, or institutions. Common in official titles and formal addresses. The word carries weight in Greek culture where respect for elders and authority is highly valued.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: σέβας is a noun meaning 'reverence' or 'awe', while σεβαστός is an adjective meaning 'worthy of reverence'
Notes: σέβας is the emotion you feel, σεβαστός describes the person who deserves that emotion
Mnemonic: σεβαστός ends in -τός like other adjectives (καλός, μεγάλος), σέβας is just the feeling itself