Definition

Proper noun: * A historical city: Antioch refers to an ancient and historically significant city located in what is now southern Turkey. It was a major commercial hub, the capital of the Roman province of Syria, and one of the earliest and most important centers of Christianity.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The apostle Paul began his missionary journeys from the church in Antioch.
  • Ancient Antioch was famous for its wealth and strategic location on trade routes.
  • The modern Turkish city of Antakya is built on the site of ancient Antioch.

Advanced Usage

• "Antiochian": Pertaining to Antioch.
  • The Antiochian Orthodox Church traces its origins to the ancient Christian community in that city.

Variants and Related Words

• Antakya: The modern name for the city in Turkey, located on the site of ancient Antioch.

Synonyms

• Antioch on the Orontes: The full historical name used to distinguish it from other cities named Antioch.
• Antiochia: The Latin and Greek form of the name.

Notes on Different Meanings

This word has one primary historical and geographical referent. It should not be confused with other, smaller ancient cities also named Antioch founded by Seleucid rulers in different regions. The context typically makes it clear that the primary reference is to the major city in Syria (modern Turkey).

Noun

1. a town in southern Turkey; ancient commercial center and capital of Syria; an early center of Christianity