How Do You Spell VISIGOTH?

Pronunciation: [vˈɪsɪɡˌɒθ] (IPA)

The spelling of the word Visigoth can be a bit tricky for non-native English speakers. Visigoth is pronounced as vɪzɪɡɒθ, with the stress on the second syllable. The word Visigoth refers to one of two main branches of the Goths, a Germanic people who played an important role in the fall of the Western Roman Empire. Despite its complex spelling, the word Visigoth has become a part of the English language and is often used to refer to a barbarian or uncivilized person.

VISIGOTH Meaning and Definition

1. Visigoth refers to a member of the Visigothic people, an East Germanic tribe that played a significant role in European history during the late antiquity and early medieval periods. The Visigoths emerged as a distinct group from the Gothic people in the 4th century AD. Initially originating from the Baltic region, they migrated southward and settled in different parts of Europe.

   As a noun, 'Visigoth' often describes a member of this ethnic group, particularly those who were part of the Visigothic kingdom in Hispania (modern-day Spain and Portugal). During the 5th and 6th centuries, the Visigoths established a powerful kingdom in the Iberian Peninsula, which assimilated elements of Roman culture, law, and governance. They were known for their Arian Christianity, warrior culture, and skills in horsemanship.

   Beyond its historical context, the term 'Visigoth' is also used metaphorically to refer to someone who is considered uncultured, barbaric, or lacking in refined tastes. This association stems from the image of the Visigoths as conquerors who disrupted the Roman Empire's social and cultural structures. In this sense, 'Visigoth' is often employed to describe individuals who disregard established traditions, manners, or intellectual pursuits, favoring instead a more brutish or unsophisticated approach. It is essential to recognize that this usage typically carries a negative connotation and is often employed figuratively in discussions on cultural, social, or intellectual matters.

2. One of the western Goths, or that branch which finally settled in Spain and southern France.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for VISIGOTH

• visith
• cisigoth
• bisigoth
• gisigoth
• fisigoth
• vusigoth
• vjsigoth
• vksigoth
• vosigoth
• v9sigoth
• v8sigoth
• viaigoth
• vizigoth
• vixigoth
• vidigoth
• visogoth
• Vizigothe
• Vesigoth
• Visegoth
• Vizingoth
• Visgot
• Visingot

Etymology of VISIGOTH

The word "Visigoth" comes from Late Latin "Visigothus", which was derived from "Visi-" meaning "west" and "goths" meaning "Goths". The Visigoths were a Germanic people who migrated from the Baltic region to settle in the western part of the Roman Empire during the 4th century AD. They were one of the branches of the larger Gothic people and were known for their conflicts with the Romans, eventually establishing their own kingdom in modern-day Spain and Portugal.