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Definition of chthonian : Designating, or pertaining to, gods or spirits of the underworld; esp., relating to the underworld gods of the Greeks, whose worship is widely considered as more primitive in form than that of the Olympian gods. The characteristics of chthonian worship are propitiatory and magical rites and generalized or euphemistic names of the deities, which are supposed to have been primarily ghosts.

Synonyms:

chthonic, lower, nether, infernal, under

Usage examples:

• Lastly, though it would be hazardous to strain this point, we find in his chief impersonations a Chthonian character, a touch of the mystery that is shrouded in the world beyond the grave. - "Sketches and Studies in Italy and Greece, Vol III.", John Symonds.
• You go to the Chthonian folk for guidance because they are themselves the Oldest of the Old Ones, and they know the real custom: they know what is Presbiston, what is Themis. - "Five Stages of Greek Religion", Gilbert Murray.
• It must be strange to die, surrounded by jackals at their chthonian litanies. - "In Mesopotamia", Martin Swayne.