Emily Dickinson Lexicon

DOR'IC, a. [from Doris in Greece.]

In general, pertaining to Doris, or the Dorians, in Greece, who dwelt near Parnassus. In architecture, noting the second order of columns, between the Tuscan and Ionic. The Doric order is distinguished for simplicity and strength. It is used in the gates of cities and citadels, on the outside of churches, &c. The Doric dialect of the Greek language was the dialect of the Dorians, and little different from that of Lacedemon. – Encyc. The Doric mode, in music, was the first of the authentic modes of the ancients. Its character is to be severe, tempered with gravity and joy. – Encyc.