Pronunciation: [kɹˈe͡ɪtəz] (IPA) 
Kraters is spelled with the letters K, R, A, T, E, and S. The pronunciation of this word is /ˈkreɪtərz/ with the stress on the first syllable. The 'kr' sound is pronounced like the 'cr' sound as in 'cream'. The letter 'a' is pronounced as the 'ay' sound in 'day'. The 't' is pronounced as a hard 't' sound. The letter 'e' is pronounced as a short 'e' sound as in 'red'. Finally, the letter 's' is pronounced as a 'z' sound.
Kraters refer to large, ancient Greek vessels used for mixing wine and water during social gatherings and rituals. These vessels had a wide, shallow body and a broad, flaring mouth, making them ideal for diluting wine with water to create an ancient Greek beverage known as "krasis." The name "krater" is derived from the Greek verb "kerannumi," which means "to mix" or "to blend."
Typically made of clay or ceramic, kraters featured two horizontal handles on opposite sides for ease of transport and pouring. The handles were also used for swirling the contents to ensure proper blending. Additionally, some kraters had decorative elements such as painted scenes or reliefs that depicted mythological or everyday themes, adding aesthetic value to the vessel.
In ancient Greece, these vessels served an important social function by facilitating communal drinking and were commonly used during symposia, which were gatherings where men engaged in intellectual discussions, poetry recitations, and other forms of entertainment. Kraters were also employed during religious ceremonies to honor the gods, where the diluted wine was offered as a libation. These vessels became an iconic symbol of ancient Greek culture and are revered for their historical significance and artistic craftsmanship.
Today, surviving kraters are highly valued artifacts that provide valuable insights into ancient Greek society, customs, and artistic traditions. They are often displayed in museums and studied by historians, archaeologists, and scholars to better understand the rich cultural heritage of the ancient Greeks.
The word "krater" comes from the Greek κρατήρ (kratēr), which means "mixing-vessel" or "mixing-bowl". In ancient Greece, a krater was a large clay or metal container used for mixing wine with water during symposia, which were social gatherings where men drank, discussed, and celebrated. The word has its roots in the Greek verb κεράννυμι (keránnymi), meaning "to mix" or "to mingle".
