genius loci

noun

genius lo·​ci -ˈlō-ˌsī How to pronounce genius loci (audio)
-ˌkē
Synonyms of genius locinext
1
: the pervading spirit of a place
2
: a tutelary deity of a place

Examples of genius loci in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The wealthy part-time residents, with their renovation and caretaking and groundskeeping needs, are the mill in this town, so the genius loci is also an employer. — Rafil Kroll-Zaidi, Harper’s Magazine , 17 Aug. 2022 The attempt at a borghetto, a small village, half Tuscany, half Puglia maybe, a borghetto with no soul and no genius loci, a shitty place, a borghetto di merda. — Francesco Pacifico, The Dial, 9 Dec. 2025 These stories, embedded in the design, culture and essence of a destination, tap into the spirit of place, or genius loci, creating a narrative that resonates on a personal level. — Roger Sands, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024 The Design Of Elsewhere Designing for a specific place requires a specific kind of attention — an immersion in the genius loci that is the animating principle behind some of DesignAgency’s most celebrated work. — Daniel Scheffler, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin

First Known Use

1575, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of genius loci was in 1575

Rhymes for genius loci

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Browse Nearby Words

genius
genius loci
genizah
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Cite this Entry

“Genius loci.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/genius%20loci. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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