[very] -- reduplicated compounds
Pindar’s odes are famous for their shimmering descriptions. His compound adjectives are particularly striking.
high wise (Olympian 11:19)
much hospitable (Nemean 3:2)
all common (Paean 9:10)
Homer is very found of compound nouns. The following are everywhere in the Iliad.
rose finger
wine face (usually translated as “wine dark”)
ox eye
These compounds delight because they join two of the same parts of speech (adjective + adjective in Pindar and noun + noun in Homer). This is somehow more elevated than a mixed compound like “heavy handed” (adjective + noun) or “long running” (adjective + verb). The secret is reduplication. The <x x> structure is a basic cognitive template. When we encounter it in the wild, it is like seeing an old friend. The mind breathes a sigh of relief — we are home now. Skilled poets exploit this emotional effect.