Chimer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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chimer
[kaษชหmษชษrษ ]
Definitions
mythological creature
A chimera is a creature from Greek mythology that is composed of the parts of more than one animal. Typically, it is depicted as a fire-breathing monster with a lion's head, a goat's body, and a serpent's tail. Chimeras have come to symbolize something that is fantastical or impossible, combining disparate elements into a single entity. The term is also used in modern biology to describe an organism that contains genetically different cells, such as an animal that has been genetically engineered.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The chimera defeated the hero in the ancient tale.
- Scientists created a genetic chimera for research purposes.
- In art, chimeras are depicted as hybrid creatures.
- He referred to her vision as a chimera of his imagination.
figurative use
Metaphorically, a chimera represents an illusion or a fantasy that takes hold of someoneโs dreams or desires. It signifies unattainable goals or ideals that may be pursued but are ultimately unrealistic. This use of the term is common in literature and philosophy, where individuals are warned against chasing their personal chimeras.
Synonyms
fantasy, illusion, pipe dream.
Examples of usage
- His dreams of becoming a millionaire were just a chimera.
- In her pursuit of perfection, she chased a chimera.
- Chasing such chimeras can lead to disappointment.
Translations
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Origin of 'chimer'
The word 'chimera' comes from the Greek 'Chimaira,' referring to a monster in Greek mythology. The first use dates back to ancient texts where it was described as a fire-breathing creature that terrorized the landscape. This term also connects to the concept of a chimera in anatomical terms, referring to living organisms with genetically different tissuesโderived from a similar fantastical notion of creatures composed of different parts. Over time, the use of the term has evolved beyond mythology into general usage, representing anything that is made up of incongruous parts or something wildly unrealistic in nature. In modern times, it has also been adopted in scientific contexts, particularly in genetics and biology, highlighting the diverse applications of the concept throughout history.