psêphos

psêphos Steinchen

• Traditionally considered related to ψάω (psáō, “to rub smooth, crumble”), though the morphological function of -φ- (-ph-) would be unclear.
• Alternatively, or perhaps in conjunction with the above, assuming a root ψῆφ- (psêph-), related to ψάμμος (psámmos, “sand”) and its presumed relatives.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /psɛ̂ː.pʰos/ → /ˈpsi.ɸos/ → /ˈpsi.fos/

Noun

ψῆφος • (psêphos) f (genitive ψήφου); second declension

1. a pebble

   Synonyms: βιζάκιον (bizákion), χάλιξ (khálix)

   1. a precious stone, gem
2. (based on the uses made of such pebbles)
   1. a pebble used for reckoning, a counter
   2. a pebble used for a draught or chessman
   3. a pebble used for divination
   4. a pebble used for voting
      1. that which is carried by vote, a vote
      2. resolve, decree, judgment
      3. a place of voting, poll