Definition of: Damon and Pythias

(dā′mən; pith′ē·əs)
In Roman legend, two Syracusan philosophers celebrated for their friendship. When Pythias was sentenced to death by Dionysius the Elder and wished to visit his home before dying, Damon volunteered to remain as hostage; Pythias returned and the loyalty of the two friends moved Dionysius to pardon the offender.