scenic
UK: ˈsiːnɪk | US: ˈsiːnɪk
adj. relating to natural scenery; visually picturesque or attractive
adj. of or pertaining to the stage or theatrical scenery
scenic = scene<view or stage setting> + ic<adjective suffix>
- scene (from Latin scena, Greek skēnē <originally "tent or booth," later "stage backdrop">)
- ic (adjective-forming suffix, from Latin -icus, Greek -ikos <pertaining to>)
Etymology Origin:
The word scenic traces back to the Greek skēnē, which referred to a tent or structure used as a stage backdrop in ancient theater. Over time, skēnē evolved into Latin scena, broadening to mean "a view" or "stage setting." The suffix -ic was added in English to form an adjective, originally describing theatrical backdrops but later extending to natural landscapes. The shift from artificial stage sets to natural beauty reflects the word’s expansion from art to nature.
The scenic route through the mountains offered breathtaking views.
The film was praised for its scenic cinematography.
The town is known for its scenic beaches and cliffs.
The play’s scenic design transformed the stage into a forest.
We stopped at a scenic overlook to take photos.