Definition

Noun 1. The political union of Greece and Cyprus: A political concept and movement advocating for the unification of the island of Cyprus with Greece. Historically, this was a primary goal for many Greek Cypriots, particularly before Cyprus gained independence in 1960.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The concept of enosis was a major force in Cypriot politics during the mid-20th century.
  • Some groups campaigned vigorously for enosis, viewing it as a natural cultural and historical union.
  • The 1974 coup, aimed at achieving enosis, led to a Turkish military intervention and the division of the island.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: The term is used almost exclusively in historical and political discussions about Cyprus. It is a proper noun (often capitalized) referring to a specific political objective.
  • The debate over Enosis shaped the island's modern history.

Variants and Related Words

• Unionist (noun): A supporter of enosis.
  • The unionists organized rallies in support of their cause.
• Megali Idea (noun, historical): The "Great Idea," a related Greek nationalist concept that included the goal of enosis with Cyprus.

Synonyms

• Unification (with Greece): The act of uniting Cyprus with Greece.
• Annexation (by Greece): The incorporation of territory into another state, often used critically to describe enosis.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• "The Enosis Movement": Refers to the collective political groups and campaigns that sought to achieve this union.
  • The Enosis Movement gained significant support after World War II.
• "Against enosis": A position opposing the union, held by Turkish Cypriots and others.
  • Turkish Cypriot leaders were firmly against enosis.

Noun

1. the union of Greece and Cyprus (which is the goal of a group of Greek Cypriots)