Philistine
IPA
Definition of 'Philistine'
A person who is indifferent or opposed to culture, art, and intellectual pursuits, and is considered to be lacking in taste and refinement.
"He was a Philistine, unappreciative of the fine arts and unable to recognize true talent."
Detailed Meaning of 'Philistine'
The term is derived from the ancient Philistines, a people who were known for their military prowess but were not considered to be culturally advanced.
The term is often used to describe someone who is uneducated or unsophisticated, and who does not appreciate or understand the finer things in life. They are considered to be lacking in culture and sophistication and often seen as being opposed to artistic and intellectual values. Philistine people could be seen as uncivilized, unenlightened, unrefined and not open to new ideas and perspectives. They are also considered to be narrow-minded and closed-minded, with little interest in anything that isn't familiar to them.
It can also be used in a broader sense, to describe a society or culture that is seen as lacking in cultural or intellectual pursuits, and that is indifferent to or opposed to the arts, literature, and other forms of cultural expression.
Examples of 'Philistine' in a Sentence
1. The Philistine scoffed at the museum's exquisite paintings.
2. She dismissed the classical music as Philistine noise.
3. His Philistine attitude towards literature was disheartening.
4. The Philistine had no interest in attending the ballet.
5. Their Philistine taste in fashion was quite evident.
6. He was the epitome of a true Philistine, ignorant of art.
Origins & Etymology of 'Philistine'
The noun 'Philistine' has an etymology that harkens back to ancient history. It originally referred to the ancient Philistines, a people who lived in the region of Canaan and were mentioned in the Bible as adversaries of the Israelites. In biblical narratives, the Philistines were often depicted as enemies of culture and civilization. Over time, the term 'Philistine' evolved to describe a person who is indifferent or opposed to culture, art, and intellectual pursuits, and is considered to be lacking in taste and refinement. This transformation of meaning reflects the historical perception of the Philistines as a people who were seen as uncultured and opposed to intellectual and artistic endeavors. The etymology of 'Philistine' thus connects this modern sense of the term to its ancient roots, emphasizing the association between cultural indifference and the historical depiction of the Philistines.
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