Peripatetic: meaning, definitions and examples

🚶‍♂️
Add to dictionary

peripatetic

 

[ ˌperəˈpəˌtetɪk ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

traveling place

The term 'peripatetic' is often used to describe someone who travels from place to place, especially in a leisurely manner. It originates from the ancient Greek philosophy school led by Aristotle, who used to walk while teaching. As a lifestyle, being peripatetic implies a lack of permanence, often associated with a free-spirited approach to life. This word can also describe ideas or lifestyles that are transient or mobile.

Synonyms

itinerant, nomadic, roving, wandering

Examples of usage

  • She led a peripatetic life, moving from city to city each year.
  • The peripatetic nature of his work allowed him to explore many cultures.
  • They enjoyed a peripatetic adventure across Europe during summer.
  • His peripatetic routine as a travel writer kept him on the move.
Context #2 | Noun

philosophical school

As a noun, 'peripatetic' refers to a follower of the Peripatetic school of philosophy, founded by Aristotle. Members of this school engaged in discourse while walking around, leading to the term's association with philosophical discussion and inquiry. This usage highlights the importance of movement in cognitive processes, as well as the impact of environment on learning.

Synonyms

philosopher, scholar, thinker

Examples of usage

  • Aristotle's peripatetic followers gathered in the Lyceum.
  • The peripatetic engaged in deep discussions while strolling in the garden.
  • She became a peripatetic of Aristotle’s teachings in her lectures.
  • His approach as a peripatetic scholar was both dynamic and enlightening.

Translations

Translations of the word "peripatetic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 peripatético

🇮🇳 परिपथिक

🇩🇪 peripatetisch

🇮🇩 peripatetik

🇺🇦 перипатетичний

🇵🇱 perypatetyczny

🇯🇵 ペリパテティック

🇫🇷 péripatéticien

🇪🇸 peripatético

🇹🇷 peripatetik

🇰🇷 페리파테틱

🇸🇦 بيريباتيتيك

🇨🇿 peripatetický

🇸🇰 peripatetický

🇨🇳 周游的

🇸🇮 peripatetičen

🇮🇸 peripatetic

🇰🇿 перипатетикалық

🇬🇪 პერიპატეტური

🇦🇿 peripatetik

🇲🇽 peripatético

Word origin

The word 'peripatetic' has its roots in Ancient Greek, derived from 'peripatetikos', which means 'given to walking about'. This is closely related to the verb 'peripatein', meaning 'to walk about'. Historical association with Aristotle is significant, as his teachings often took place in the Lyceum, where he would walk and discuss philosophical ideas with his students. In the modern context, it has broadened to refer to a wandering or itinerant lifestyle, drawing parallels to both travel and intellectual exploration. The application of 'peripatetic' in contemporary language often emphasizes a non-static existence, often celebrated for its richness in experience and knowledge gained through movement.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,633, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.