Definition

Noun: 1. A legendary Roman king: Tarquin refers to a figure from Roman legend, specifically the seventh and last king of Rome, said to be of Etruscan origin. He is traditionally depicted as a cruel tyrant whose reign ended with his overthrow and the establishment of the Roman Republic.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The tyranny of Tarquin led to a rebellion.
  • According to legend, the rape of Lucretia was the event that caused the people to rise against Tarquin.
  • Historians debate how much of the story about Tarquin is factual.

Advanced Usage

• "Tarquinian" (adjective): Pertaining to or characteristic of Tarquin.
  • The historian described the period as one of Tarquinian oppression.

Variants and Related Words

• Tarquin the Proud (proper noun): The most common epithet for this king, Lucius Tarquinius Superbus in Latin.
• Tarquinius (proper noun): The Latin form of the name.

Synonyms

• Tyrant: A cruel and oppressive ruler.
• Despot: A ruler with absolute power who uses it cruelly.

Notes on Meaning

The word "Tarquin" is almost exclusively used as a proper noun referring to this specific legendary king. It is not used as a common noun. In historical and literary contexts, it symbolizes cruel monarchy and the catalyst for Rome's transition from a kingdom to a republic.

Noun

1. according to legend, the seventh and last Etruscan king of Rome who was expelled for his cruelty (reigned from 534 to 510 BC)