damascus

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damascus

A traveler admires the ancient city of Damascus from a hilltop.

Definition
  1. Proper noun:
    • The capital and largest city of Syria: Damascus is the political and cultural center of Syria, serving as its national capital.
    • An ancient city: Widely considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history spanning thousands of years.
    • A significant location in religious history: According to the New Testament, it is the city near which Saul (who later became the Apostle Paul) experienced a profound religious conversion while traveling.
Usage Examples
  • Proper noun:
    • Damascus has been a major cultural and commercial center for centuries.
    • The historic old city of Damascus is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    • The phrase "road to Damascus" alludes to a sudden and transformative change in belief or perspective.
Advanced Usage
  • "Damascus steel": A type of steel used historically for sword blades, known for its distinctive wavy pattern and reputation for toughness and sharpness.

    • The museum displayed a collection of ancient swords made from Damascus steel.
  • "A Damascus moment": An idiom describing a sudden, profound, and life-changing realization or conversion, derived from the biblical story.

    • His failure in business became a Damascus moment, leading him to completely change his career path.
Variants and Related Words
  • Damascene (adj): Pertaining to Damascus.
    • The market was full of beautiful Damascene textiles and metalwork.
Synonyms
  • Capital of Syria: The primary city and seat of government for Syria.
  • Ancient city: A historic metropolis with origins in antiquity.
Related Phrases
  • "On the road to Damascus": A phrase used to describe the context or journey leading to a radical transformation or revelation.
    • Her journey of self-discovery was her own road to Damascus.
Related Idioms
  • "A Damascus conversion": An idiom for a sudden, complete, and dramatic change in someone's beliefs or attitudes.
    • His shift from critic to staunch supporter was nothing short of a Damascus conversion.
damascus

A traveler admires the ancient city of Damascus from a hilltop.

Noun
  1. an ancient city (widely regarded as the world's oldest) and present capital and largest city of Syria; according to the New Testament, the Apostle Paul (then known as Saul) underwent a dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus