Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ɔːˈɡʌst/

Definitions

• 1. Respected and impressive; inspiring reverence or admiration due to dignity or grandeur.
• 2. (capitalized) Pertaining to the month of August in the Gregorian calendar, the eighth month of the year.

Usage Examples

• "The august leader addressed the nation with words of wisdom and strength."
• "They gathered in an august hall, filled with artwork and history."
• "The august setting of the castle added to the grandeur of the ceremony."

Etymology

The word "august" comes from the Latin word "augustus," which means "venerable," "majestic," or "worthy of respect." "Augustus" was a title used by Roman emperors, derived from "augere," meaning "to increase" or "to elevate." The term was associated with greatness and reverence, and eventually came to describe anything that inspired awe or respect.

Synonyms

• Majestic
• Imposing
• Venerable
• Grand
• Respectable
• Stately
• Revered
• Exalted

Antonyms

• Unimpressive
• Insignificant
• Common
• Ordinary
• Unremarkable
• Humble

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, "August" is typically pronounced with emphasis on the first syllable: "AW-gust."
• In British English, it is also pronounced as "AW-gust," but with a slightly more pronounced "g" sound.
• In Spanish, "Augusto" is pronounced with a soft "g," similar to "ah-GUS-to," and with stress on the second syllable.

Historical Usage

The name "August" was first used as a title by Emperor Augustus of Rome, who was granted the title in 27 BCE, symbolizing his elevated status. The title itself came to signify reverence and dignity, which later evolved into the adjective "august," meaning majestic or venerable. The month of August was named in his honor, further cementing its association with grandeur and importance. Over time, "august" came to describe anything that evokes admiration or awe due to its magnificence or dignity, such as august individuals, institutions, or ceremonies.

Cultural Nuances

In modern usage, "august" is often associated with things that are elevated or worthy of respect. For example, institutions such as universities, courts, and churches might be described as "august," conveying the sense of their solemnity and high regard. The term is also used to describe people who command great respect, whether due to their position, accomplishments, or character. In contrast to more casual terms, "august" carries a connotation of grandeur, reverence, and dignity, often implying a sense of permanence and history.

More Information

The word "August" has significant historical and cultural relevance. As the title of one of Rome's most famous emperors, it denotes respect and high status. Today, "august" is not only used to describe people or institutions but also frequently appears in contexts that imply something grand or imposing, such as in descriptions of architecture, events, or ceremonies. The month of August, in addition to its historical link to the emperor, is often associated with late summer, symbolizing a period of reflection or culmination. Its use in modern language continues to evoke an atmosphere of reverence and admiration.