1. Inhabitants or natives of Paphos, an ancient city on the island of Cyprus.
Usage: historical; usually plural
2. In classical literature, followers or devotees of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, who was particularly venerated at Paphos.
Usage: literary; archaic; usually plural

Examples

• The Paphians built temples dedicated to Aphrodite in their coastal city.
• Ancient writers described the Paphians as devoted worshippers of the love goddess.
• Paphos was so closely associated with Aphrodite that the Paphians became synonymous with her cult.
• The Paphians maintained important trade routes throughout the Mediterranean.
• Classical poets often referenced the Paphians in their verses about Cyprus.