paideia

noun

pai·​deia
pīˈdāə
plural -s
1
: training of the physical and mental faculties in such a way as to produce a broad enlightened mature outlook harmoniously combined with maximum cultural development
the long and noble tradition of paideia, which made it impossible for a Greek or Roman to write a worthy book merely to record factsGilbert Highet
2
: the ideal development envisioned or attained by paideia

Word History

Etymology

German, from Greek, education, culture, from paideuein to educate (from paid-, pais child) + -ia -y

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near paideia

Cite this Entry

“Paideia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paideia. Accessed 14 Oct. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!