ἐλεφάντινος
elephántinos
G1661 attributive adjective
SILEX Entry
Definition
Composed of, made from, or relating to ivory; describes objects or materials made from the tusks of elephants. Primarily used of luxury items, furnishings, or adornments distinguished by their ivory composition. In broader Hellenistic usage, can also signify anything characterized by its white, costly, or exotic quality, akin to ivory.
Semantic Range
made of ivory, ivory-adorned, composed of ivory, pertaining to ivory
Root / Etymology
From ἐλέφας (elephas), meaning 'elephant' or 'ivory,' with the adjectival suffix -ινος (-inos) forming an adjective meaning 'made of' or 'pertaining to.'
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical and Hellenistic Greek, ἐλεφάντινος predominantly designates items made from ivory, a highly prized material in antiquity, associated with opulence and exoticism, often imported from far regions. Attested in Greek literature (e.g., Homer, Herodotus) for expensive objects such as thrones, inlays, and combs. In the Septuagint and New Testament, it is used particularly for luxury goods and ornamental furnishings. Although most English translations render it simply as 'ivory' or 'of ivory,' the term also carries connotations of wealth and prestige. It does not include figurative senses or reference to the animal beyond its material product. Contrasts with ἐλέφας, which may refer to either the animal (elephant) or the tusk/ivory itself; ἐλεφάντινος always means 'made of ivory.' No significant theological or religious connotation is attached to the term in biblical or Hellenistic texts.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from (an "elephant"); elephantine, i.e. (by implication) composed of ivory:--of ivory.
Root Family
ἐλεφάντ- (elephántinos) — ivory, made of ivory, of elephants
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1661-01 |
ἐλεφάντινον | elephantinon | ADJ.A ACC N SG |
of ivory | made of ivory | ivory | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1661-01 |
Revelation 18:12 | ἐλεφάντινον | elephantinon | ADJ.A ACC N SG |
of ivory | made of ivory | ivory |