August
August
Pronunciation
The IPA phonetic spelling for "August" is: /ˈɔːɡəst/
First Syllable (/ˈɔːɡ/):
/ɔː/ - as in "caught" or "thought"
/ɡ/ - as in "go" or "gate"
Second Syllable (/əst/):
/ə/ - schwa sound, as in the "a" in "about" or "sofa"
/s/ - as in "sit" or "sun"
/t/ - as in "top" or "tea"
Word Form Variations
Noun (Proper Noun): August (refers to the eighth month of the year) - No plural form.
Adjective: August (meaning respected and impressive) - No plural form. This form can be used comparatively: more august, most august.
Definitions, Synonyms and Antonyms
Noun
August
The eighth month of the Gregorian calendar, following July and preceding September. It has 31 days. It is often associated with the peak of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and winter in the Southern Hemisphere.
Synonyms: N/A (as it's a proper noun for a specific month)
Antonyms: N/A
Adjective
August
Inspiring reverence or admiration; majestic and venerable. Characterized by great dignity or grandeur, often implying a long and distinguished history or position.
Synonyms: majestic, grand, dignified, noble, venerable, eminent, distinguished, stately, regal, imposing
Antonyms: humble, lowly, ignoble, common, unimpressive, ordinary, insignificant, mean, vulgar
Examples of Use
Books:
"The August halls of the old university seemed to whisper tales of centuries past, filled with the echoes of great minds." (Fictional novel example, though a common descriptive use)
"In Sense and Sensibility, Jane Austen frequently describes characters of august bearing, highlighting their refined manners and social standing." (Literary analysis, referencing a classic novel)
Newspapers:
"The city's annual 'Taste of August' festival is expected to draw record crowds this weekend, featuring local cuisine and musical acts." (Local newspaper article, referring to the month)
"Following the devastating fire, the community held an august ceremony to honor the fallen firefighters, attended by dignitaries from across the state." (National newspaper report, using the adjective form)
Online Publications:
"Tech giant unveils its latest smartphone in August, promising revolutionary new features." (Tech news website, referring to the month)
"From the august pages of the Harvard Law Review comes a groundbreaking analysis of constitutional reform." (Academic blog post, referring to a respected publication)
"Our 10 favorite travel destinations for August include serene beaches and vibrant city escapes." (Travel blog, referring to the month)
Various Entertainment Mediums and Platforms:
Television Series (Dialogue): "He carries himself with such an august presence; you can tell he's a man of immense power." (Dialogue from a historical drama series)
Film Review: "The director masterfully captures the august beauty of the ancient Roman ruins, transporting the audience back in time." (Online film review, using the adjective)
Podcast (Discussion): "We'll be discussing the economic outlook for August in our next episode, focusing on recent market trends." (Financial news podcast, referring to the month)
Video Game (Lore/Description): "Enter the August Citadel, a fortress built by the legendary kings of old, where ancient power still resides." (In-game text or lore description)
Social Media Post (Event Announcement): "Join us this August for our annual charity run! Sign up link in bio." (Facebook/Instagram post by an organization, referring to the month)
General Public Discourse:
"I'm planning my vacation for August this year, hopefully somewhere warm." (Casual conversation between friends, referring to the month)
"The Queen, with her august demeanor, truly commands respect." (Informal discussion about royalty, using the adjective)
"Our family reunion is always in August because it's the only time everyone can get together." (Personal anecdote, referring to the month)
"They presented a truly august proposal to the city council, clearly well-researched and presented." (Informal assessment of a presentation, using the adjective)
10 Famous Quotes Using August
"The most august and impressive event in the history of the world was the promulgation of the Ten Commandments." (William Ewart Gladstone)
"The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining, not when it's August and raining." (John F. Kennedy)
"I believe that we are on the eve of a new and august reformation." (John Milton)
"That August body, the Senate..." (Often used in political commentary when referring to the U.S. Senate or similar legislative bodies, though specific attribution is difficult for a common phrase)
"Every reform, however august and necessary, will be met with resistance from those whose interests are vested in the status quo." (Attributed to various political thinkers)
"This is a case of an august and powerful person being very wrong." (Often heard in news commentary regarding figures of authority)
"In August it is a great time to be alive, particularly if you are in the northern hemisphere." (Fictional quote, reflecting common sentiment about the month)
"An august assembly of scholars gathered to debate the ancient texts." (Descriptive phrase, common in academic writing)
"The august presence of the ancient monument filled us with awe." (Descriptive phrase, common in travel literature)
"And the whole world seemed to hold its breath, as if waiting for some august pronouncement." (Metaphorical use, indicating something significant and grand)
Etymology
The word "August" has a fascinating history that ties back to ancient Rome. It actually has two main meanings and origins that eventually became linked:
The Month (August):
First known use: The name for the eighth month of the year has been in English since the Old English period (before 1150).
Meaning then and now: It's always referred to the specific month.
How it got the name: Originally, in the old Roman calendar, this month was called "Sextilis" because it was the sixth month. However, in 8 BCE, the Roman Senate decided to rename it in honor of the first Roman Emperor, Augustus Caesar. They chose this month because several of his great victories happened in it, including the conquest of Egypt. So, the month "August" is directly named after him.
The Adjective (august):
First known use: The adjective "august" (meaning "majestic" or "venerable") appeared in English later, around the late 1500s.
Meaning then and now: Its meaning has remained consistent – it describes something that inspires great respect, awe, or admiration, often due to its grandeur, dignity, or importance.
How it got the name: This meaning comes from the Latin word "augustus," which means "consecrated," "venerable," or "majestic." This Latin word itself is thought to be related to "augur," a Roman religious official who interpreted omens (like bird flights) to determine if something was "auspicious" or "favorable." So, something "augustus" was seen as having divine approval or being worthy of reverence.
In simple terms:
The month of August is named after the powerful Roman Emperor Augustus, who was given that title because it meant "respected" or "majestic." This same Latin word, "augustus," is also where we get the English adjective august, meaning something that is grand, dignified, and inspires awe, much like the emperor himself was perceived.
Phrases + Idioms Containing August
Phrases using "August" (Month):
In August: Refers to an event happening during that specific month. (e.g., "Our annual conference is in August.")
The dog days of August: Refers to the hottest, most sultry part of summer, often associated with late July and August.
An August holiday/vacation: A trip taken during the month of August.
August heat/sun: Describes the weather conditions typical of the month.
Phrases using "August" (Adjective - often formal or slightly archaic):
An August presence/figure: Describes someone with great dignity, authority, or inspiring respect.
August halls/chambers: Refers to grand, imposing, or venerable buildings, often associated with power or history (e.g., "the august halls of Parliament").
An August body: A formal term for a highly respected and authoritative group or institution (e.g., "the august body of the Supreme Court").
Of august bearing: Describing someone who carries themselves with great dignity and stateliness.
An August pronouncement: A highly significant, formal, and authoritative statement.
Idioms/Phrases with Synonyms for Similar Effect (reflecting "august" as majestic/venerable):
To command respect: To be in a position or possess qualities that naturally lead others to respect you (similar to an august presence).
To cut a majestic figure: To present an impressive and dignified appearance.
To hold court: To be the center of attention, commanding a respectful audience, often with an air of authority.
To sit on a throne: Figuratively, to be in a position of supreme power and dignity.
Vocabulary-Based Stories from SEA
Source Information
Definition of August from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.
