Corinthian

1 of 2

noun

Co·​rin·​thi·​an kə-ˈrin(t)-thē-ən 

1

: a native or resident of Corinth, Greece

2

: a merry profligate man

Corinthian

2 of 2

adjective

1

: of, relating to, or characteristic of Corinth or Corinthians

2

: of or relating to the lightest and most ornate of the three ancient Greek architectural orders distinguished especially by its large capitals decorated with carved acanthus leaves see order illustration

Examples of Corinthian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

And the Arverne Pier Theater wore its neoclassical inspirations on its sleeve, complete with Corinthian columns and a half-round pediment. — Kat Chen, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Sep. 2026

Unlike in most mythological tales, the white Corinthian columns have been swapped out for brutal stone architecture. — Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 15 July 2026

When is a column’s capital Doric, Ionic or Corinthian enough to be considered classical? — Oscar Holland, CNN Money, 12 June 2026

Those in need of a 12-foot Corinthian pillar, elaborate crown moldings, or a rococo ceiling medallion should place their orders ASAP. — Anne Kadet, Curbed, 12 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1520, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

Corinthian

adjective

Co·​rin·​thi·​an

kə-ˈrin(t)-thē-ən

: of or relating to a style of Greek architecture characterized by a bell-shaped capital covered with sculptured leaves

Etymology

Adjective

named for Corinth, region and city in ancient Greece