Smithsonian Moderate

Smithsonian has 2 different meanings across 1 category:

Definitions

Adjective

Of or pertaining to James Smithson (c.1765–1829), British mineralogist and chemist whose bequest was used to set up the Smithsonian Institution in the United States.

"The historic documents reveal that many early artifacts were cataloged by a smithsonian before the institution was officially established."

In plain English: Smithsonian describes anything related to the huge group of museums and research centers run by the United States government.

"The Smithsonian Institution features many famous Smithsonia exhibits about American history and science."

Proper Noun

The Smithsonian Institution, a group of museums and research centers established in 1846 and administered by the United States government.

"Visitors flock to the Smithsonian every day to explore its vast collection of museums and research centers."

Example Sentences

"The Smithsonian Institution features many famous Smithsonia exhibits about American history and science." adj

"The smithsonian museum in Washington offers free admission to visitors every day." adj

"Students often visit the smithsonian institutions during their field trips for education." adj

"Her father worked at the smithsonian before he retired and moved to a small town." adj

Origin

The word smithsonian combines James Smithson's name with the suffix -ian to form an adjective meaning "of or relating to him." It entered English specifically to describe institutions and collections associated with his bequest.

Rhyming Words

ian sian jian bian rian dian qian kian vian xian gian lian asian elian brian ilian apian arian avian chian

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