Chimaera Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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chimaera

[kɪˈmɪərə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

mythological creature

In Greek mythology, the Chimaera is a fire-breathing female monster. It typically depicted as a creature with the body and head of a lion, a goat's head protruding from its back, and a tail that ends with a snake's head. The Chimaera symbolizes the chaotic nature of many myths and is known for its fearsome and fierce characteristics. As a fantastical being, it represents the blending of different creatures and serves as a cautionary tale about hubris and divine punishment.

Synonyms

beast, creation, monster.

Examples of usage

  • The hero fought bravely against the Chimaera in the epic tale.
  • Many ancient art pieces depict the Chimaera surrounded by flames.
  • In modern literature, the Chimaera appears as a symbol of unattainable dreams.
  • The legend of the Chimaera highlights the dangers of monster encounters in Greek mythology.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Mythology

  • In Greek mythology, the chimaera was slain by the hero Bellerophon, who rode the winged horse Pegasus.
  • The creature is often depicted as having a lion's head, a goat's body, and a serpent's tail, symbolizing chaos and unpredictability.
  • Chimaera is sometimes considered a warning against hubris, as her defeat required both skill and the aid of divine creatures.

Pop Culture

  • Chimaera appears in various films and video games, often as a monstrous villain or part of a fantasy world.
  • In the Marvel Comics universe, Chimaera is sometimes referenced as a genetic experiment, reflecting modern interpretations of the myth.
  • Popular games like Dungeons & Dragons feature chimaeras as formidable enemies, showcasing their rich mythological origins.

Science

  • In genetics, a chimeric organism is one that contains two or more genetically distinct cell types, often created through scientific manipulation.
  • The term is used in transplant science, where cells from different origins are combined to study disease and treatment.
  • Chimerism can be naturally occurring in some species, leading to unique colorations or physical traits.

Literature

  • Chimaera has been referenced in various works of literature, from ancient texts to modern fantasy novels, often symbolizing unorthodox ideas.
  • Authors use the concept to explore themes of identity, transformation, and the blending of different cultures or ideas.
  • In poetry, the term can represent dreams and impossible desires, reflecting the human inclination towards the fantastical.

Origin of 'chimaera'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'chimaera' comes from the Greek word 'Chimaira,' meaning 'she-goat.'
  • Originally described in ancient myths, the creature was believed to breathe fire and terrorize people in Lycia (modern-day Turkey).
  • The name has also been adopted in biology to describe organisms made of different tissues, like in chimeric animals.

The word 'Chimaera' originates from the ancient Greek term 'Χίμαιρα', which refers to a mythological creature often characterized by its composite nature. The etymology of 'Chimaera' is linked to the word 'chimaera', which means 'to create' or 'to form' in Greek. This reflects the creature's mixture of different animal parts. The Chimaera was mentioned in various works of Greek literature, including Homer's Iliad and in the works of Hesiod. Over time, the term has also been used in modern contexts to represent something that is fantastical or composed of incongruous parts, extending beyond its original mythological roots. Today, 'Chimaera' can also refer to biological concepts, particularly in genetics and biology, where it denotes an organism that contains genetically distinct cells.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,310, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.