Byzantine
Adjective
Definition: Excessively complicated, intricate, or elaborate, often involving a great deal of administrative detail.
Synonyms: Complex, Convoluted, Labyrinthine, Intricate
Antonyms: Simple, Straightforward, Uncomplicated
- The Byzantine bureaucracy made it difficult for citizens to navigate through the administrative processes.
- The company's Byzantine decision-making structure slowed down progress and hindered innovation.
- Think of the intricate and complicated architecture of Byzantine buildings.
Etymology:
The word "Byzantine" comes from "Byzantium," the ancient Greek city that later became Constantinople, which is now Istanbul in modern-day Turkey. The Byzantine Empire existed from the 4th century AD until the 15th century AD. The word "Byzantine" came into use during the Renaissance to describe the complex and bureaucratic nature of the Byzantine Empire.
Historical Usage:The adjective "Byzantine" gained popularity in English to describe complex and intricate systems, processes, or situations resembling the Byzantine Empire's administrative style.
Related Idioms:
"Byzantine politics"
Explanation:Refers to the complex and convoluted nature of political maneuvers and strategies, often involving intricate alliances and intrigues.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "Byzantine" with "Byzantium."
Explanation:While "Byzantine" refers to something complex and intricate, "Byzantium" specifically refers to the ancient Greek city that served as the capital of the Byzantine Empire.