Word Study
xystus
CIDE DICTIONARY
xystus, n. [L. xystus, Gr. , from to scrape, polish; -- so called from its smooth and polished floor.].
A long and open portico, for athletic exercises, as wrestling, running, etc., for use in winter or in stormy weather. [1913 Webster]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
xystus, n. (pl. xysti)
1 a covered portico used by athletes in ancient Greece for exercise.
2 Rom. Antiq. a garden walk or terrace.
1 a covered portico used by athletes in ancient Greece for exercise.
2 Rom. Antiq. a garden walk or terrace.
Etymology
L f. Gk xustos smooth f. xuo scrape
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