Definition

Proper noun: * Gaius Cassius Longinus: A Roman senator and general, historically known as the primary instigator and leader of the conspiracy that resulted in the assassination of Julius Caesar in 44 BC. He died in 42 BC.

Usage

• Proper noun:
  • Gaius Cassius Longinus is often portrayed as the more pragmatic and determined conspirator compared to Brutus.
  • The historian detailed the military campaigns of Gaius Cassius Longinus before and after Caesar's death.

Advanced Usage

• "the Cassius": In historical and literary contexts, he is frequently referred to simply as "Cassius," with the understanding that it refers to this specific historical figure.
  • In Shakespeare's play, Cassius is the one who persuades Brutus to join the plot.

Variants and Related Words

• Cassius (Proper noun): The common shortened form of his name.
  • Cassius and Brutus were defeated at the Battle of Philippi.

Synonyms

• Cassius: The most direct synonym, being the shortened form of his name.
• The Conspirator: A descriptive term referencing his most famous historical action (used with context).

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "A lean and hungry look": A phrase from Shakespeare's (Act I, Scene II), used to describe Cassius's ambitious and dangerous nature. It has entered the language to describe someone who appears ambitious, cunning, or dissatisfied.
  • The new executive had a lean and hungry look that made his colleagues wary.

Noun

1. prime mover in the conspiracy against Julius Caesar (died in 42 BC)