Definition

Noun: 1. A tall ancient Greek or Roman jar or vase with two handles and a narrow neck: A type of ceramic container, typically with an oval body, used in antiquity for storing and transporting liquids such as wine, oil, or grain.

Examples of Usage

• Archaeologists discovered a well-preserved amphora in the shipwreck.
• The amphora was decorated with scenes depicting a mythological battle.
• Olive oil was commonly traded in large amphorae.

Advanced Usage

• In archaeology and art history: The term is used to classify and date artifacts. Different shapes and styles of amphorae are associated with specific time periods and regions (e.g., a Panathenaic amphora).
  • The shape of this amphora identifies it as originating from Corinth in the 6th century BC.

Variants and Related Words

• Amphorae (plural): The standard plural form, especially in academic contexts.
  • The museum's collection includes several Greek amphorae.
• Amphoras (plural): An accepted, often more general, plural form.

Synonyms

• Jar
• Vase
• Vessel
• Urn (though an urn is typically associated with holding ashes)

Notes on Meaning

The word specifically denotes a two-handled storage jar from classical antiquity. Its primary context is historical, archaeological, and artistic. While it is a type of jar or vase, using the term "amphora" implies its ancient origin and distinctive shape.

Noun

1. an ancient jar with two handles and a narrow neck; used to hold oil or wine