1. the master of ceremonies or leader of a symposium in ancient Greece
Usage: historical; ancient Greek culture

Examples

• The symposiarch was responsible for mixing the wine and water in proper proportions.
• As symposiarch, he directed the evening’s philosophical discussions and entertainment.
• The role of symposiarch required both social skills and knowledge of proper etiquette.
• Ancient Greek texts describe the symposiarch as wearing a crown of flowers.
• The symposiarch would determine the topics of conversation for the gathering.
• Without a skilled symposiarch, the symposium could descend into chaos.