1. a person who admires Greek culture, history, or civilization, or who supports the interests of Greece or Greek people
Usage: often capitalized when referring to historical supporters of Greek independence in the 19th century

Examples

• The philhellenist spent years studying ancient Greek philosophy and literature.
• Many European philhellenists supported Greek independence during the Ottoman occupation.
• As a devoted philhellenist, she traveled to Athens to explore the ruins of the Parthenon.
• The museum's collection reflects the curator's passion as a lifelong philhellenist.
• Philhellenists of the 19th century organized fundraising campaigns for Greek freedom fighters.