Definition

Proper noun A historical figure, specifically a king of the ancient kingdom of Macedon. He is renowned for his unprecedented military campaigns, which resulted in the conquest of a vast empire stretching from Greece to Egypt and into Persia (modern-day Iran). He is also noted as the founder of the city of Alexandria in Egypt.

Usage Examples

• As a subject:
• In historical context:
• Referencing his legacy:

Advanced Usage

• "The conquests of Alexander the Great": A standard phrase referring to his military campaigns and the resulting expansion of his empire.
  • The conquests of Alexander the Great facilitated the spread of Hellenistic culture.
• "The era of Alexander the Great": Used to denote the historical period during which he lived and ruled.
  • This artifact dates back to the era of Alexander the Great.

Variants and Related Words

• Alexander III of Macedon: The formal, historical title for the same person.
• Alexandrian (adj): Pertaining to Alexander the Great or, more commonly, to the city of Alexandria he founded.
  • The Alexandrian period was marked by great scholarly activity.

Synonyms

• Alexander III: The formal synonym.
• The Macedonian Conqueror: A descriptive synonym emphasizing his primary historical role.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "To cut the Gordian knot": An idiom originating from a legend about Alexander the Great, meaning to solve a complex problem with a bold, decisive action.
  • The new manager cut the Gordian knot of bureaucracy by implementing a simple new policy.
• "Weeping for more worlds to conquer": A phrase often attributed to Alexander, symbolizing boundless ambition or a desire for endless achievement.
  • After his third successful startup, he felt like Alexander weeping for more worlds to conquer.

Noun

1. king of Macedon; conqueror of Greece and Egypt and Persia; founder of Alexandria (356-323 BC)