CHRONOGRAM Meaning and
Definition
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A chronogram refers to a unique form of encoding dates in a literary or artistic manner. It is a type of word puzzle or riddle in which a phrase or sentence is constructed by utilizing numerical values assigned to letters. These numerical values correspond to the numerical values of Roman numerals. By adding up the numerical values of the Roman numerals in a particular phrase, the corresponding date can be deduced.
Chronograms were particularly popular during the Renaissance and Baroque eras, as they allowed writers and artists to embed dates within their works in an aesthetically pleasing manner. They were commonly found in inscriptions, engravings, or poems, adding an element of intellectual challenge and artistic expression.
The practice of utilizing chronograms is rooted in the desire to immortalize important dates, events, or individuals in an obscure yet intriguing way. By incorporating chronograms into their works, artists and writers were able to convey hidden messages or commemorate specific milestones without immediately revealing their meanings. As a result, chronograms were often used in commemorative plaques, buildings, or objects of historical significance.
In modern usage, while the art of constructing chronograms is not as prevalent, the term is still used to describe any escape or embedded message in literary or artistic works that can be deciphered through numerical calculations. Chronograms remain a unique genre within the broader field of word puzzles, continuing to intrigue and challenge enthusiasts of codes and ciphers.
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An inscription which includes in it the date of an event.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CHRONOGRAM
- xhronogram
- vhronogram
- fhronogram
- dhronogram
- cgronogram
- cbronogram
- cnronogram
- cjronogram
- curonogram
- cyronogram
- cheonogram
- chdonogram
- chfonogram
- chtonogram
- ch5onogram
- ch4onogram
- chrinogram
- chrknogram
- chrlnogram
- chrongram
- hcronogram
- Chronograme
Etymology of CHRONOGRAM
The word "chronogram" has its roots in ancient Greek and Latin. It is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "khronos" meaning "time" and "gramma" meaning "letter". The Greek term "khronos" later passed into Latin as "chronos" with the same meaning.
In ancient times, chronograms were used as a form of encoding dates within a text or inscription. They involved arranging letters in a specific way so that certain ones represented Roman numerals, which could then be added up to reveal a specific calendar year. These inscriptions were commonly found on memorial plaques, coins, buildings, and books. Due to their association with marking time, the term "chronogram" was coined to describe this specific type of embedded dating system.
Similar spelling words for CHRONOGRAM
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