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Greek Words in English – A Unique Exploration

The Greek (Hellenic) language has contributed enormously to English, particularly in fields such as science, medicine, mathematics, and the arts. Countless English words—ranging from phenomenon and symbiosis to democracy and athletics—trace their roots directly to ancient Greece.

Many of these words also reflect Greece’s rich mythology and culture, with references to Olympian gods, legendary heroes, and classical concepts, producing terms like herculean or aphrodisiac. Beyond everyday language, Greek word elements continue to fuel new coinages in specialized fields: think photography, telemetry, biomechanics, and cinematography.

Scholars estimate that roughly 30% of modern English vocabulary is derived from Greek, either directly or through Latin intermediaries. This explains why English, though fundamentally Germanic, is so flexible and able to incorporate technical, philosophical, and cultural terminology.

This PDF offers a comprehensive list of Greek words used in English, organized into categories for easier reference. Whether you are a student, a language enthusiast, or simply curious, it provides a valuable snapshot of how ancient Hellenic roots still shape our modern vocabulary.

For those inspired by Greek history and culture, diving deeper can be as immersive as visiting a Greek island. Our Corfu Complete Tourist Guide offers practical tips, hidden gems, and insights into the landscapes, monuments, and traditions that make Corfu a destination worth exploring.

List of Greek words in English

Only an example of a few words of Greek origin is below, with their writing in the modern Greek language and their spelling with Latin characters. Practically unchanged since antiquity.
Everyday Words Science & Mathematics Medicine & Health Philosophy & Abstract Concepts Mythology & Culture Technology & Modern Coinages

Everyday Words

Science & Mathematics

Medicine & Health

Philosophy & Abstract Concepts

Mythology & Culture

Technology & Modern Coinages

Note: almost all words that start with “PH” are of Greek origin!

Some samples of English texts

(Bolded and underlined words are of Greek origin, all unchanged in time, and most importantly, easily understood by any uneducated Greek)

Sample 1

The cosmos, an extensive expanse, is the domain of astronomers who explore the phenomena of the celestial. Using telescopes, these scientists examine the orbits and magnitudes of various planets and stars. In the microcosm, biologists study organisms, analyzing their anatomy and physiology to understand abiogenesis, symbiosis, and metabolism within ecosystems.

In the realm of medicine, diagnosis and therapy are paramount. Physicians use clinical methods to identify symptoms and prescribe pharmacological remedies. Pathologists investigate the etiology of diseases, often employing microscopy to observe cellular pathology via biopsy. The synthesis of antibiotics has revolutionized the prognosis of bacterial infections.

Physics, another fundamental science, delves into the dynamics of energy and matter. The study of mechanics, optics, and acoustics has led to innovations in technology. Meanwhile, chemists explore the properties and reactions of chemical elements, discovering catalysts that accelerate synthesis processes.

In geology, the stratigraphy of the Earth is examined, revealing the chronology of tectonic activities. Seismologists monitor seismic waves to predict earthquakes, safeguarding populations from potential catastrophes. Paleontologists, on the other hand, unearth fossils, contributing to the chronology of life on Earth.

Psychology, a discipline examining the psyche(soul), focuses on cognition and behavior. Psychiatrists treat mental disorders, utilizing psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. The synergy of these sciences enhances our comprehension of the natural and human world, fostering a symbiotic relationship between knowledge and application.

Sample 2

Philosophy is a profound discipline that examines the fundamental nature of existence, knowledge, and ethics. Philosophers engage in dialectics, employing logic and reason to explore metaphysical questions about reality and ontology. The dialogues of Socrates, as documented by Plato, remain seminal texts in epistemology and ethics.

Metaphysics, a branch of philosophy, delves into the essence of being and the cosmos. It addresses questions of substance, causality, and the infinite. Epistemology investigates the nature and scope of knowledge and belief, differentiating between empirical and a priori knowledge.

Ethics, or moral philosophy, explores the concepts of virtue, justice, and the good life. Aristotle‘s Nicomachean Ethics offers a systematic examination of virtue ethics, proposing that eudaimonia, or human flourishing, is achieved through the cultivation of moral and intellectual virtues.

Aesthetics, another vital branch, analyzes the nature of beauty, art, and taste. Plato‘s theory of forms posits that aesthetic qualities are reflections of ideal forms. Aristotle‘s Poetics dissects the elements of tragedy and dramatic structure, influencing literary criticism for centuries.

The Socratic method, characterized by elenchus or refutation, is a form of dialectical inquiry that seeks to expose contradictions in an interlocutor’s arguments, promoting philosophical clarity and self-examination. Heraclitus and Parmenides contributed significantly to the ontology and cosmology debates, with their doctrines on change and permanence.

In the modern era, phenomenology, founded by Edmund Husserl, investigates the structures of consciousness and intentionality. Existentialism, with figures like Sartre and Heidegger, explores the human condition, freedom, and authenticity.

The study of philosophy remains essential for the comprehension of abstract concepts and the development of critical thinking. Through analysis, synthesis, and speculation, philosophers continue to contribute to the intellectual tradition and the quest for wisdom.

And an extreme example, understood by Academics

The philosopher and theorist utilized logic and ethics in their analysis of the cosmos. In their dialogue, they explored phenomena and ideas of metaphysics and epistemology. The dynamic synthesis of theories on psychology and aesthetics created a paradox in the paradigm of democracy and autonomy.

Their methodology included techniques of dialectics and rhetoric, aiming to achieve symmetry and harmony in their systematic hypothesis. The philosopher‘s critique of dogma emphasized the importance of rational analysis and empirical criteria. They debated the axioms of geometry and mathematics, focusing on the axiomatic principles and logic.

In ethics, the philosopher examined virtue, charisma, and hedonism, proposing a synthesis of principles for eudaimonia. The cosmopolitan ethos integrated aspects of democracy, autonomy, and sympathy. The philosopher‘s systematic approach combined hypothesis, theorem, and axiom, striving for clarity and coherence.

The scholar presented their thesis in a symposium, utilizing logic and rhetoric to convey the dynamic interplay of ideas and theories. They emphasized the synthesis of philosophical concepts, promoting dialogue and debate for the development of knowledge and wisdom.

All of these words are of Greek (Hellenic) origin

Estimates suggest that over 150,000 English words, directly or indirectly, come from Greek (source: www.britishcouncil.org).

Seeing how many words you already know, it’s almost like being a native Greek speaker—without even realizing it!

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