a. Also 7 lincean, 7–9 lyncæan, 9 lynxean. [f. L. lyncē-us (a. Gr. λύγκειος, f. λύγξ, LYNX) + -AN.
Some of the writers who have used the word have perh. intended a reference to Lynceus, the name of one of the Argonauts, celebrated for his sharp sight; cf. ‘a more piercing Linceus sight’ (Nashe, Lenten Stuffe (1599), 67).]
Of the eyes, sight, etc.: Resembling that of a lynx, keen; also of persons: lynx-like; sharp-sighted.
1622. Bp. Hall, Serm., V. 129. Justice cannot be too lyncean to the being of things.
a. 1678. Marvell, Def. John Howe, Wks. 1875, IV. 181. I wonder how in this lyncean perspicacity It oversaw a more remarkable errour of Mr. Howe’s.
1793. W. Roberts, Looker-on, No. 85. (1794), III. 364. It was not long ere the … lyncean vigilance of the Baron detected the exchange of letters.
1816. Kirby & Sp., Entomol., II. 219. Hunted for by the lyncean eye of an entomologist.
1819. Turton, Conchol. Dict., p. xviii. This laborious and lyncean naturalist. [In mod. Dicts.]
