Arthur

Pronunciation

• US IPA: /ˈɑɹθɹ̩/
• UK IPA: /ˈɑːθə(ɹ)/

Origin

From the name of the legendary king, probably related to Proto-Celtic *artos ("bear"). Further suggestions include Old Welsh arth ("bear") and ur ("man"). Latin origin has also been suggested.

Full definition of Arthur

Proper noun

1. .
• 1380s-1390s, Geoffrey Chaucer, In tholde dayes of the king Arthour,
  Of which that Britons speken greet honour,
  All was this land fulfild of fayerye.
• Shakespeare John|IV|II: Act IV, Scene II:Young Arthur is alive: this hand of mine
  Is yet a maiden and an innocent hand,
  Not painted with the crimson spots of blood.
• 1951 Graham Greene, The End of the Affair, Viking Press, page 96:"Is his name Arthur?" "Arthur James." "It’s quite an old-fashioned name." "We’re an old-fashioned family. His mother was fond of Tennyson."
• 1966 Patrick White, The Solid Mandala, Avon Books (1975), ISBN 0380003759, page 270:"It will not be his only name," Mr. Saporta said, and his glance hoped he had found an acceptable solution. " We shall also call him 'Aaron'. That will be his Jewish name. But for everyday purposes—Arthur."
2. A village in Illinois
3. A city in Iowa
4. A rural municipality in Manitoba, Canada
5. A village in Nebraska
6. A ghost town in Nevada
7. A city in North Dakota
8. A town and a community in Wisconsin

Usage notes

In continuous use as a given name since early Middle Ages. Popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Derived terms

• Arthurian
• arthurite
• Arthur Daley
• pet forms: Art, Artie, Arty

Related terms

• King Arthur