Definition

Proper noun 1. An ancient kingdom and empire: Parthia was an ancient kingdom located in what is now northeastern Iran. It existed as a major political and cultural power from approximately 247 BC to 224 AD. The Parthian Empire became a dominant force in southwestern Asia and was a formidable rival to the Roman Empire, notably famous for its skilled horse archers and "Parthian shot" military tactic.

Examples of Usage

• Proper noun:
  • Parthia controlled key trade routes along the Silk Road.
  • The Roman general Crassus was defeated by the armies of Parthia at the Battle of Carrhae.
  • Parthia's capital was originally at Hecatompylos and later moved to Ctesiphon.

Advanced Usage

• "Parthian shot": A metaphor derived from the Parthian cavalry's tactic of feigning retreat and then shooting arrows backwards at the pursuing enemy. It now means a final, cutting remark made upon departure.
  • He delivered a perfect Parthian shot as he left the meeting, silencing his critics.

Variants and Related Words

• Parthian (adjective): Of or relating to Parthia or its people, culture, or empire.
  • Parthian art shows a blend of Hellenistic and Iranian influences.
• Parthian (noun): A native or inhabitant of ancient Parthia.
  • The Parthians were renowned for their heavy cavalry, the cataphracts.

Synonyms

• Parthian Empire: The historical state ruled by the Arsacid dynasty.
• Arsacid Empire: Another name for the Parthian Empire, derived from its ruling dynasty, the Arsacids.

Noun

1. an ancient kingdom in Asia to the southeast of the Caspian Sea; it dominated southwestern Asia from about 250 BC to AD 226