Definition

Proper noun The Cyclades; a large group of Greek islands located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea. The name specifically refers to the archipelago as a geographical and cultural region.

Usage

The word "Kikladhes" is the modern Greek name for the island group. In English, this group is almost exclusively referred to as "the Cyclades." Therefore, "Kikladhes" is primarily used when employing the Greek term directly, often in historical, cultural, or travel contexts related to Greece. * The ferry route connects several major islands in the Kikladhes. * Ancient artifacts from the Kikladhes are displayed in the museum.

Advanced Usage

• Referring to the Ancient Culture: The term is used in archaeology and history to describe the prehistoric Bronze Age civilization that flourished on these islands, known as the Cycladic civilization.
  • The stylized marble figurines are characteristic of Kikladhes art.

Variants and Related Words

• Cyclades (n.): The standard English name for the island group.
• Cycladic (adj.): Pertaining to the Cyclades islands or their ancient civilization (e.g., Cycladic art, Cycladic architecture).
• Aegean Islands (n.): The broader category of islands in the Aegean Sea, which includes the Cyclades, Dodecanese, Sporades, and others.

Synonyms

• The Cyclades
• Cycladic Islands

Noun

1. a group of over 200 islands in the southern Aegean