Theophrastus

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. An ancient Greek philosopher and botanist known for founding the field of botany and contributing extensively to philosophy and natural science
2. A prominent classical figure distinguished by his pioneering studies in plant life and philosophy during antiquity
3. A historical scholar celebrated for his influential works in early biology and philosophical thought in ancient Greece

Etymology: Born Tyrtamus on the island of Lesbos around 371 BC, this philosopher received his famous name from his teacher. Aristotle reportedly renamed him for the divine eloquence of his speech, combining "theos" (god) and "phrasis" (speech, from "phrazein," to tell or declare). Ancient sources say Aristotle had recognized his talent early, and the nickname outlasted the original name. Theophrastus later succeeded Aristotle as head of the Lyceum in Athens, and he went on to write the "Enquiry into Plants" and "On the Causes of Plants," which describe hundreds of species and their growth, and are often considered the foundation of botany. He also wrote "Characters," a series of sketches of recognizable human types such as the flatterer and the boor, which shows his interest in observing people as closely as plants.

Synonyms: philosopher, botanist, student of Aristotle