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praetorian

/pri'tɔ:riən/
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The word "praetorian" has a few meanings and uses, but it primarily relates to ancient Rome. Let's break it down for you!

Basic Definition:
  1. Adjective: "Praetorian" describes something that is characteristic of the Praetorian Guard, which was a group of elite soldiers in ancient Rome who were responsible for protecting the emperor. This term can also refer to anything related to a Roman praetor, a type of magistrate or official in ancient Rome.
Usage Instructions:
  • When using "praetorian" as an adjective, you can describe a situation, a group, or behavior that is similar to that of the Praetorian Guard, often implying corruption or political manipulation.
  • It is often used in more formal or historical contexts.
Example:
  • "The government was criticized for its praetorian practices, where officials acted more like political enforcers than public servants."
Advanced Usage:
  • In modern contexts, "praetorian" can refer to bureaucracies or organizations filled with ambitious individuals who may prioritize loyalty and personal gain over integrity.
Word Variants:
  • Praetor: A noun referring to a Roman official, often a judge.
  • Praetorship: The position or office of a praetor.
Different Meanings:
  • Historically, it specifically relates to the soldiers of the Praetorian Guard.
  • In a broader sense, it can describe any situation where there is corruption or undue influence in a power structure.
Synonyms:
  • Elite, corrupt, ambitious (in a political context), bureaucratic.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no widely recognized idioms or phrasal verbs specifically associated with "praetorian," but you could use phrases like "political maneuvering" to convey similar ideas.

Summary:

In summary, "praetorian" is an adjective that relates to the elite soldiers of ancient Rome and often implies corruption or manipulation in modern contexts.

Adjective
  1. characteristic of or similar to the corruptible soldiers in the Praetorian Guard with respect to corruption or political venality
    • a large Praetorian bureaucracy filled with ambitious...and often sycophantic people makes work and makes trouble- Arthur M.Schlesinger Jr.
  2. of or relating to a Roman praetor
    • praetorial powers
Noun
  1. a member of the Praetorian Guard

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