noun
- plural of amphictyony; ancient Greek religious and political associations of neighboring city-states that shared a common sanctuary or temple.
Usage: historical; chiefly used in classical studies
Examples
- The Delphic amphictyonies gathered regularly to manage the sanctuary of Apollo.
- Ancient Greek amphictyonies served both religious and diplomatic functions among member states.
- Scholars study the amphictyonies to understand early Greek political organization.
- The amphictyonies of Thermopylae coordinated defense and religious observances.
- Membership in amphictyonies reinforced bonds between neighboring Greek communities.