Chimeric: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from 'chimera,' which refers to a fire-breathing monster from Greek mythology with parts from different animals.
• In ancient texts, the chimera was described as having a lion's head, a goat's body, and a serpent's tail, embodying the concept of being a mix of different creatures.
• The term evolved in the 19th century to describe imaginary or fantastical entities, expanding beyond just the mythical creature.

Science

• In genetics, a 'chimeric' organism has cells from two or more different zygotes, which can lead to unique traits or characteristics.
• Chimeric stem cells are used in research, potentially aiding in regenerative medicine by combining traits from different species.
• The term is also applied in biotechnology, where chimeric proteins are engineered to have functions from multiple proteins, expanding their use in therapies.

Art & Literature

• In literature, chimeric themes explore the blending of genres or ideas, often seen in magical realism where reality and fantasy coexist.
• Artworks sometimes evoke a chimeric quality by combining disparate styles or elements, challenging viewers to interpret them in multiple ways.
• Famous stories, like 'Frankenstein,' embody chimeric qualities through the merging of human and monster, raising questions about creation and humanity.

Pop Culture

• Chimeric creatures appear frequently in modern fantasy games, where they are depicted as powerful beings composed of various animal attributes.
• Movies like 'The Shape of Water' showcase chimeric love stories between humans and fantastical beings, blurring the lines of reality.
• Comics often feature chimeric superheroes or villains with merged powers, appealing to fans' imaginations and exploring identity.

Philosophy

• Philosophers discuss chimeric concepts in metaphysics, where ideas can overlap, leading to debates about the nature of reality and fantasy.
• In exploring identity, the idea of being chimeric can symbolize the multiplicity of human experiences, identities, and cultural influences.
• Chimeric theories challenge rigid boundaries within philosophical discussions, promoting a more fluid understanding of existence.

At rank #28,475, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 28475 chimeric
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• 28478 disbelieving
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