Definition

Proper noun A Roman general and statesman, a prominent figure in the late Roman Republic. He was a member of the First Triumvirate and later a major rival of Julius Caesar, whose rise to power led to a civil war.

Usage

This term is used exclusively as a proper noun to refer to the historical individual. It is most commonly used in historical, academic, and biographical contexts. * He studied the military campaigns of Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus. * The alliance between Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus, Julius Caesar, and Marcus Licinius Crassus was known as the First Triumvirate.

Advanced Usage

• Pompey the Great: This is the most common English translation and equivalent for "Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus." The name "Magnus," meaning "the Great," was an honorific title he earned.
  • The Battle of Pharsalus was a decisive defeat for Pompey the Great.

Variants and Related Words

• Pompey: The common shortened form of his name in English.
  • Pompey was defeated by Caesar at the Battle of Pharsalus in 48 BC.

Synonyms

• Pompey the Great (direct English equivalent)
• Pompey (common shorthand)

Related Phrases and Contexts

• The First Triumvirate: The political alliance involving Pompey, Caesar, and Crassus.
• The Battle of Pharsalus: The decisive battle in 48 BC where Caesar's forces defeated Pompey's.
• Optimate faction: The conservative senatorial faction that Pompey aligned with against Caesar.

Noun

1. Roman general and statesman who quarrelled with Caesar and fled to Egypt where he was murdered (106-48 BC)