ieratico

hieratic

adjective yeh-RAH-tee-koh Rare

Origin: Greek hieratikos, from hiereus (priest).

Also means

solemn; priestly

Usage Note

Ieratico describes something with the rigid, formal solemnity associated with sacred rites or ancient art. In art history it refers to the frontal, stylised posture of figures in Byzantine or ancient Egyptian art. In everyday speech it describes a person with a stiffly dignified demeanour.

Examples

"Il Cristo ieratico domina il mosaico."

Natural Translation

The hieratic Christ dominates the mosaic.

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