aeidein

Aeidein is the transliteration of an ancient Greek verb, typically written in its active present infinitive as αἰδεῖν and in the middle as αἰδέσθαι. The core sense of the active form is “to revere, to respect, to honor,” especially toward gods, elders, or social superiors. The middle form, αἰδέσθαι, carries the reflexive sense “to be ashamed” or “to feel shame,” and by extension can imply showing deference or modesty toward others. The related noun αἰδός (aidós) denotes the quality or feeling of shame, modesty, or reverence, and is central to Greek ethics and social conduct.

Usage and nuance: In classical Greek literature, concepts of shame and reverence (aidos) influence actions more than explicit rules, guiding behavior in hospitality, piety, and the maintenance of personal honor. The verb appears in contexts where individuals act out of a sense of honor or to avoid public shame, as well as in contexts of genuine reverence or worship toward the divine.

Forms and related terms: Beyond the present infinitives, Greek verbs built from this root appear in various tenses and voices, reflecting shifts between active overt action (revering, honoring) and middle/reflexive sense (being ashamed, showing deference). The noun αἰδώς remains a key term in discussions of moral psychology and social virtue in ancient Greek thought, contributing to concepts of proper conduct and reputation.

See also: αἰδώς, aidos, Greek ethics, reverence, shame.