Ancient Greece Vocabulary

Flashcards for key vocabulary terms related to Ancient Greece.

Acropolis

A fortified hill on which temples, shrines, and statues were built.

Agora

A large open marketplace surrounded by government buildings.

Assembly

The group of voters which consisted of all citizens.

Boule

A council which assisted the assembly, consisting of 500 members (50 per tribe) chosen by lot.

Hellene

The term used to refer to Greeks during Ancient Greece; they identified as Hellenes or Hellas.

Hoplite

Premier Greek foot soldiers, dressed in leather and bronze armor, carrying a shield, long spear, and short sword.

Metic

Craftsmen and shopkeepers like boat builders, barbers, school teachers, etc.

Phalanx

A Greek battle formation consisting of a long block of soldiers, 8 ranks deep, with overlapping shields for protection.

Philosopher

A person who studies ideas about knowledge, truth, the nature and meaning of life.

Polis

A city-state in Ancient Greece governing itself, consisting of a walled town and surrounding farmland with its own government and traditions.

Strategoi

Military commanders in Ancient Greece, with one per tribe.

Trireme

Long, low boats that were fast and easy to steer, featuring a large ram at the front and three tiers of rowers.