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Definition of abyssinian

abyssinian

/ˌæb.ɪˈsɪn.i.ən/
ab · ys · sin · i · an

Plural:abyssinians
•
Adjective:abyssinian
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abyssinian Lexical Profile

• noun

1

A breed of domestic short-haired cat characterized by a distinctive ticked tabby coat, where individual hairs are banded with different colors.

Example

"She adopted a playful Abyssinian that quickly became the energetic center of the household."


2

A native or inhabitant of Abyssinia, the historical Ethiopian Empire in East Africa.

Example

"The early European explorers established important trade relations with the Abyssinians."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for abyssinian

• adjective

1

Relating to or characteristic of Abyssinia (the historical name for the Ethiopian Empire), its people, or its culture.

Example

"The museum featured a stunning collection of early Abyssinian art and religious manuscripts."

• Rhymes for abyssinian

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from 'Abyssinia', the historical name for the Ethiopian Empire, which originated from the Arabic term 'Ḥabaš' referring to the region's inhabitants, combined with the English suffix '-ian'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Abyssinian. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/abyssinian
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