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boustrophedon

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bou·​stro·​phe·​don | \ ˌbü-strə-ˈfē-ˌdän How to pronounce boustrophedon (audio) , -dᵊn \

Definition of boustrophedon

: the writing of alternate lines in opposite directions (as from left to right and from right to left)

Other Words from boustrophedon

boustrophedon adjective or adverb
boustrophedonic \ ˌbü-​strə-​fē-​ˈdä-​nik How to pronounce boustrophedon (audio) \ adjective

First Known Use of boustrophedon

1699, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for boustrophedon

Greek boustrophēdon, adverb, literally, turning like oxen in plowing, from bous ox, cow + strephein to turn — more at cow

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The first known use of boustrophedon was in 1699

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Cite this Entry

“Boustrophedon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/boustrophedon. Accessed 17 Jun. 2021.

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