Definition of Dionysius
the name of two rulers of Syracuse. Dionysius I (circa 430–367 bc), ruled 405–367; known as Dionysius the Elder. A tyrannical ruler, he waged three wars against the Carthaginians for control of Sicily, the third of which resulted in his defeat at Cronium in 375. Dionysius II (circa 397-circa 344 bc), son of Dionysius I; ruled 367–357 and 346–344; known as Dionysius the Younger. He lacked his father’s military ambitions and signed a peace treaty with Carthage in 367.
