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DictionaryRoot: dia-
Greek

dia-

through, across; apart

Forms

  • dia-
  • di- — Used before a vowel in some Greek compounds.

Origin

Greek dia, ‘through’; a connection with the Indo-European word for ‘two’ has been proposed but is uncertain.

Note

Passing through something can also divide it, linking traversal with separation.

4 / 24
Devilish figure maliciously confining a songbird.
adjective

diabolic

dye-uh-BAH-lik/ˌdaɪəˈbɑlɪk/

Extremely wicked or unpleasant.

Etymology
diaGreekthrough, across; apart
+bolGreekthrow or cast
+icGreekconnected with or characteristic of

The Greek “throw across” verb also meant “slander”; its agent noun meant “accuser” and became a name for the Devil. The adjective consequently describes devilish or outrageously wicked behavior.

Full entry

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