Athens

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A city in Greece known for its ancient history and cultural heritage
2. The capital of Greece, famous for its classical architecture and being the birthplace of democracy
3. A significant historical center in Europe recognized for its philosophy, arts, and political influence

Etymology: The city's name is plural in form, and the reason is a matter of Greek grammar rather than any single founder. Ancient Greek "Athēnai" was the plural of "Athēnē," the name of the goddess Athena, and the plural probably reflects a city that was understood as a collection of settlements gathered around the Acropolis. English took the name through Latin "Athēnae" and Old French "Athenes," and it reached Middle English as "Athens," keeping the final -s that marked the plural in its source. The plural ending has a curious afterlife. Because "Athens" looks like a plural noun to English speakers, it is sometimes treated as one, as in "Athens are beautiful in spring," even though the city is a single place. Its doublet "Athina," the modern Greek name, shows the same goddess-linked root without the English plural shape.