proper noun / noun
acropolis
uh-KRAH-puh-lis/əˈkrɑːpəlɪs/
A fortified hilltop district of an ancient Greek city.
The city's acropolis rises above the houses on a rocky hill.
Etymology
An acropolis is literally an upper city. This elevated area was often the original settlement and usually a citadel, so the name joins its position above the city with its role as a fortified stronghold.
In context
The Acropolis isn't a building. It's the hill the Parthonon stands on. The word Acropolis simply means the highest point of an ancient Greek city.
More examples
- Visitors climb toward the Acropolis overlooking Athens.
- The ancient walls protected the acropolis during attacks.
- Several Greek cities had fortified acropolises.
Forms
acropolis · acropolises · acropoles
Similar words
- citadel
- Names a fortress without requiring a Greek hilltop setting.
- hillfort
- Emphasizes defensive earthworks or walls rather than an urban district.