Sapphic

Meanings

Adjective

• Relating to the Greek poetess Sappho from Lesbos or her poetry.
• Of a certain kind of verse reputed to have been invented by Sappho, consisting of five metrical feet, of which the first, fourth, and fifth are trochees, the second is a spondee, and the third a dactyl.
• Alternate spelling of sapphic: relating to sexual or romantic intimacy between women.

Noun

• A Sapphic verse.
• A person who is sapphic.

Origin

• Sappho (Ancient Greek Σαπφώ) -ic. Sense related to sexuality alludes to Sappho's poetry discussing love between women (see also lesbian).