Meaning of RUBICON
| Pronunciation: | | 'roobu`kân
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 WordNet Dictionary |
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| | Definition: | |
- [n] a line that when crossed permits of no return and typically results in irrevocable commitment
- [n] the boundary in ancient times between Italy and Gaul; Caesar's crossing it with his army in 49 BC was an act of war
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| | Synonyms: | | point of no return |
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| | See Also: | | bound, boundary, bounds, contrast, demarcation, dividing line, line | |
| Webster's 1913 Dictionary |
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| | Definition: | | \Ru"bi*con\, n. (Anc. geog.)
A small river which separated Italy from Cisalpine Gaul, the
province alloted to Julius C[ae]sar.
Note: By leading an army across this river, contrary to the
prohibition of the civil government at Rome, C[ae]sar
precipitated the civil war which resulted in the death
of Pompey and the overthrow of the senate; hence, the
phrase to pass or cross the Rubicon signifies to take
the decisive step by which one is committed to a
hazardous enterprise from which there is no retreat.
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