The word “aedile” is not one that is commonly used in everyday conversation. However, it is a term that has significant historical and cultural significance. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of aedile, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and use in example sentences.
Definitions
An aedile is a public official in ancient Rome who was responsible for the maintenance of public buildings and the regulation of public festivals. The term “aedile” comes from the Latin “aedilis,” which means “caretaker” or “manager.” Aediles were responsible for overseeing the construction and maintenance of public buildings, such as temples, markets, and aqueducts. They were also responsible for organizing public festivals and games.
Origin
The position of aedile was established in ancient Rome in 494 BC. The aediles were originally elected by the plebeian assembly, which was made up of commoners. Later, the position was open to patricians, who were members of the aristocracy. The aediles were responsible for maintaining public buildings and regulating public festivals until the end of the Roman Republic in 27 BC.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, an aedile is “an official in ancient Rome who was responsible for public works and games.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines an aedile as “a Roman magistrate responsible for public buildings, streets, markets, and games.”
Associations
The position of aedile was one of the lower-ranking magistracies in ancient Rome. Aediles were responsible for the maintenance of public buildings and the regulation of public festivals, but they did not have the power to make laws. However, the position of aedile was still important, as it allowed individuals to gain political experience and build a reputation that could help them advance to higher positions of power.
Synonyms
- Magistrate.
- Official.
- Administrator.
- Manager.
- Caretaker.
Antonyms
- Private citizen.
- Non-official.
- Outsider.
- Layperson.
The same root words
The root word for aedile is “aedilis,” which means “caretaker” or “manager” in Latin. Other words that share this root include:
- Aedificate: To build or construct.
- Aedificium: Building or structure.
- Aedilician: Relating to the office of aedile.
Example Sentences
- During the Roman Republic, the aediles were responsible for maintaining public buildings and regulating public festivals.
- The aedile oversaw the construction of the new temple in the city center.
- The aedile was responsible for organizing the annual chariot races.
- The position of aedile was an important stepping stone for individuals who wished to advance in Roman politics.
- The aedilician games were a popular event in ancient Rome.