Edit page | Page history | Printable version

Attic

Of or pertaining to Attica, in Greece, or to Athens, its principal city; marked by such qualities as were characteristic of the Athenians; classical; refined. Attic base, a peculiar form of molded base for a column or pilaster, described by Vitruvius, applied under the roman Empire to the ionic and Corinthian and Roman doric orders, and imitated by the architects of the Renaissance. Attic faith, inviolable faith. Attic purity, special purity of language. Attic salt, attic wit, a poignant, delicate wit, peculiar to the Athenians. Attic story. See attic, attic style, a style pure and elegant.

Origin: L. Atticus, gr.