Genius loci: meaning, pronunciation and examples
Genius loci phrase. The distinctive atmosphere or spirit of a place.
How to say it
JEE-nee-us LOH-sy/ˌdʒiːniəs ˈləʊsaɪ/
5 syllables, with stress on JEE and LOH.
Genius loci in a sentence
The architect tried to respect the genius loci, keeping the old stone walls and the view of the sea.
Some towns have a genius loci you feel the moment you step off the train.
Similar and opposite
Similar:
- spirit of place
- atmosphere
- character
- ambience
Where genius loci comes from
Latin for “spirit of the place”: to the Romans, the guardian god of a particular spot.
Test yourself
Which word fills the gap?
Some towns have a _____ you feel the moment you step off the train.
- beg the question
- genius loci
- ipse dixit
Show the answer
genius loci: Some towns have a genius loci you feel the moment you step off the train.