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Webster 1913 Edition

Petalism

Pet′al-ism

(pĕt′al-ĭz’m)
,
Noun.
[Gr.
πεταλισμός
, fr.
πέταλον
a leaf: cf. F.
pétalisme
.]
(Gr. Antiq.)
A form of sentence among the ancient Syracusans by which they banished for five years a citizen suspected of having dangerous influence or ambition. It was similar to the
ostracism
in Athens; but olive leaves were used instead of shells for ballots.

Webster 1828 Edition

Petalism

PET'ALISM

,
Noun.
[Gr. See Petal.] A form of sentence among the ancient Syracusans,by which they proscribed a citizen whose wealth or popularity alarmed their jealousy, or who was suspected of aspiring to sovereign power; temporary proscription, or banishment for five years. The mode was to give their votes by writing his name on a leaf. Petalism in Syracuse answered to ostracism in Athens.

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