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Webster 1913 Edition
Areopagus
Arˊe-op′a-gus
,Noun.
[L., fr. Gr. [GREEK], and [GREEK] [GREEK], hill of Ares (Mars’ Hill).]
The highest judicial court at Athens. Its sessions were held on Mars' Hill. Hence, any high court or tribunal
Webster 1828 Edition
Areopagus
AREOP'AGUS
,Noun.
A sovereign tribunal at Athens, famous for the justice and impartiality of its decisions. It was originally held on a hill in the city; but afterward removed to the Royal Portico, an open square, where the judges sat in the open air, inclosed by a cord. Their sessions were in the night, that they might not be diverted by objects of sight, or influenced by the presence and action of the speakers. By a law of Solon, no person could be a member of this tribunal, until he had been archon or chief magistrate. This court took cognizance of high crimes, impiety and immorality, and watched over the laws and the public treasury.
Definition 2024
Areopagus
Areopagus
English
Phryne revealed before the Areopagus (1861) by Jean-Léon Gérôme. The painting depicts Phryne, a famous hetaera of Ancient Greece, on trial before the Areopagus.
Noun
Areopagus
- The supreme judicial and legislative council of ancient Athens