Definition

Proper noun * Hippo Regius: An ancient city located in Numidia, in northwestern Africa. It was situated near the coast, adjacent to the location of the modern city of Annaba in northeastern Algeria. The name distinguishes it as the "Royal Hippo," a significant political and religious center in antiquity.

Usage

• Hippo Regius is used exclusively as a proper noun to refer to the historical city. It is typically used in historical, archaeological, and theological contexts.
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Advanced Usage

• The city is often mentioned in conjunction with Saint Augustine of Hippo, one of the most important figures in Western Christianity, who served as its bishop. References to "Augustine of Hippo" implicitly refer to Hippo Regius.
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Variants and Related Words

• Hippo: A common shortened form used historically, especially in references like "Augustine of Hippo." However, "Hippo" alone can be ambiguous, as it was also the name of other ancient cities.
• Modern Annaba: The contemporary Algerian city built near the ancient site. Annaba is not a variant but the modern successor in location.

Synonyms

• Ancient Hippo: A descriptive synonym used for clarity.
• Royal Hippo: A direct translation of the Latin "Regius," sometimes used in historical texts.

Notes on Different Meanings

• Hippo (animal): The common word "hippo" is a shortened form of "hippopotamus." This is a completely separate and unrelated term from the ancient city Hippo Regius. The similarity is coincidental, stemming from different linguistic roots (Greek for the animal, Punic/Latin for the city).

Noun

1. an ancient Numidian town in northwestern Africa adjoining present-day Annaba in northeastern Algeria