Peripatetical is often misspelled as "peripatetic" due to its similarity in sound and spelling to the latter, but the correct spelling is with an "e". The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /pɛrɪpəˈtɛtɪkəl/. The pronunciation starts with the stressed short e sound followed by /r/, short i, p, schwa, t, and finally, a stressed short e sound followed by /k/ and /əl/. The word peripatetic refers to the act of walking or traveling from place to place, hence, its connection to the Greek philosopher Aristotle who taught while walking in the Lyceum.
Peripatetic is an adjective that refers to being constantly moving or traveling from place to place. The term originated from the Greek word "peripatētikos," which means "of walking around" or "given to walking about." However, in a broader sense, peripatetic can also describe someone who enjoys or is engaged in intellectual discourse or philosophical debate while walking.
From a geographical standpoint, peripatetic may describe a lifestyle characterized by frequent travel, often involving different locations or destinations. This might be applied to a traveler, a vagabond, or a nomad who constantly changes their location, whether for work, pleasure, or other reasons. Peripatetic can also refer to a person who frequently changes their place of residence or occupation, leading an itinerant lifestyle.
Philosophically, the term peripatetic is associated with the Greek philosopher Aristotle and his followers, known as the Peripatetics. These philosophers would engage in dialogue and debate while walking around the Lyceum in Athens, hence the name. Consequently, peripatetic can also describe an individual or group engaged in intellectual discussions or philosophical teachings while walking or being "on the move."
In summary, peripatetic typically relates to constant movement, whether physical or intellectual. It can describe someone who frequently changes their location, traveling from place to place, as well as individuals engaged in philosophical discussions while walking.
Walking about, as Aristotle did while he taught; pert. to Aristotle, his system, or followers.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "peripatetic" is derived from the Greek word "peripatētikos", which means "given to walking about" or "itinerant". This term was originally used to describe the followers of the philosopher Aristotle, who would often engage in philosophical discussions while walking about the Lyceum in Ancient Athens. Over time, "peripatetic" began to be used more broadly to refer to someone who traveled from place to place, or who lacked a fixed abode. The word "peripatetical" is the adjectival form of "peripatetic", and it refers to anything related to the philosophy or practices of the Peripatetics, the followers of Aristotle.