Adonis Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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Adonis
[əˈdoʊ.nɪs ]
Definition
Greek mythology
Adonis is a figure from Greek mythology associated with beauty and desire. He is the mortal lover of the goddess Aphrodite and is often depicted as a strikingly handsome young man. Adonis's story is a symbol of renewal and the seasonal cycle of life, representing the fertility of nature.
Synonyms
beautiful man, handsome youth.
Examples of usage
- She resembled Adonis with his athletic build and striking features.
- Many paintings depict Adonis in a lush landscape, surrounded by blooming flowers.
- In the festival of Adonis, ancient Greeks celebrated his resurrection.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Mythology
- Adonis was a figure from Greek mythology, admired for his extraordinary beauty and charm.
- He was the son of Myrrha and the mortal king Cinyras, and was loved by both Aphrodite and Persephone.
- His death and resurrection were celebrated in various ancient festivals, highlighting themes of love and renewal.
Literature
- Adonis appears in many classical poems, symbolizing youthful beauty and the fleeting nature of life.
- In John Keats's poem, 'Endymion,' Adonis represents the ideal of beauty that inspires poets and artists.
- The term 'Adonis' is often used in literature to describe a character that embodies male attractiveness.
Popular Culture
- The name Adonis has been referenced in modern media, including music and films, often symbolizing ideal masculinity.
- Adonis is depicted in various video games as a character who embodies strength and allure.
- Fashion industries often use the term 'Adonis' to describe male models with classical features.
Psychology
- Adonis is an example of how society shapes concepts of beauty and desirability through cultural narratives.
- The 'Adonis complex' refers to an obsession with muscularity and attractiveness in men, highlighting pressure from societal standards.
- Research shows that individuals labeled as 'Adonis' may experience both admiration and jealousy from peers.
Origin of 'Adonis'
Main points about word origin
- The name Adonis comes from the Semitic word 'Adonai,' meaning 'my lord.'
- In ancient texts, Adonis's name often symbolizes beauty and the divine right of kings, enhancing its grandeur.
- The usage of 'Adonis' to describe handsome men became popular in English literature during the Renaissance.
The name 'Adonis' originates from the Phoenician word 'Adon,' meaning 'lord.' This term reflects both the reverence for the figure in mythology and his association with the divine. In Greek culture, the myth of Adonis captures the duality of life and death, as he represents the perennial cycle of nature, dying each year and being reborn in spring. His myth spread across various cultures, influencing literature, art, and religious practices. The cult of Adonis flourished particularly in ancient Greece, where his story was celebrated in rituals that highlighted the themes of love, loss, and rebirth, paralleling the agricultural cycles of sowing and harvest.