Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

areopagus

Noun

ˌær.ɪˈɒp.ə.ɡəs

Definition

A prominent rock outcropping located northwest of the Acropolis in Athens, historically serving as a site for council meetings and legal proceedings.

Examples

The Areopagus was an important center for political debate in classical Athens.
In ancient times, cases of homicide were tried at the Areopagus.
The council of the Areopagus had significant influence over Athenian governance.

Meaning

The term refers to both the physical location and the council that convened there, which was integral to the decision-making and judicial processes of ancient Athens.