Erinyes: meaning, definitions and examples

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Erinyes

[ɪˈrɪnɪˌiːz ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

mythology

In Greek mythology, the Erinyes were female deities of vengeance, also known as the Furies. They were born from the blood of Uranus when he was castrated by his son Cronus. The Erinyes were tasked with punishing those who had sworn false oaths or committed crimes, particularly matricide, patricide, and crimes against the gods.

Synonyms

Avenging Spirits, Furies.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
Erinyes	Duplicated term, likely meant to refer to the 'Furies'.
Furies	Commonly used term in literature and everyday language to describe fierce, vengeful beings or intense emotions of rage and vengeance. It may carry a slightly negative connotation. The Furies were relentless in their pursuit of those who committed heinous crimes. Her eyes burned with the fury of a dozen Furies as she confronted the traitor.
Avenging Spirits	Utilized in broader contexts to refer to any spirits or supernatural beings that seek vengeance. This term is less specific to Greek mythology and can be applied more generally. Tales of avenging spirits often serve as warnings against committing grave injustices. In the legend, an avenging spirit haunted the murderer's family for generations.

Word

Description / Examples

Erinyes

Duplicated term, likely meant to refer to the 'Furies'.

Furies

Commonly used term in literature and everyday language to describe fierce, vengeful beings or intense emotions of rage and vengeance. It may carry a slightly negative connotation.

The Furies were relentless in their pursuit of those who committed heinous crimes.
Her eyes burned with the fury of a dozen Furies as she confronted the traitor.

Avenging Spirits

Utilized in broader contexts to refer to any spirits or supernatural beings that seek vengeance. This term is less specific to Greek mythology and can be applied more generally.

Tales of avenging spirits often serve as warnings against committing grave injustices.
In the legend, an avenging spirit haunted the murderer's family for generations.

Examples of usage

The Erinyes pursued Orestes after he killed his mother, Clytemnestra.
According to legend, the Erinyes would torment wrongdoers until they repented for their crimes.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'Erinyes' comes from the Ancient Greek word 'Erinys', which means 'to be angry' or 'to rage'.
In Latin, they are known as 'Furies', emphasizing their fearsome role in myths.
Some scholars believe the name relates to the concept of avenging spirits, highlighting their purpose in mythology.

Mythology

In Greek lore, they were born from the blood of Uranus, scattered during his castration, symbolizing vengeance.
There were three main Erinyes: Alecto (the unceasing), Megaera (the jealous), and Tisiphone (the avenger).
They were often depicted with snakes for hair and carrying torches, representing their connection to vengeance.

Literature

The Erinyes appear in classical works, such as Aeschylus's 'Orestia', where they pursue Orestes for avenging his father's death.
In modern literature, their influence persists, often symbolizing guilt and the consequences of one's actions.
Their character continues to inspire various adaptations in contemporary storytelling, portraying themes of justice and retribution.

Psychology

The Erinyes can be interpreted as personifications of guilt and the moral conscience within individuals.
Their relentless pursuit of wrongdoers reflects the psychological conflict between right and wrong.
In modern therapy, they symbolize the emotional turmoil one faces when dealing with moral dilemmas.

Pop Culture

The Erinyes have made appearances in films, video games, and graphic novels, often embodying themes of revenge and justice.
They are featured in adaptations of Greek myths, such as the popular series 'Percy Jackson', gaining a younger audience's attention.
In anime and comic book stories, they are often reimagined as fierce, powerful women, symbolizing strength and vengeance.

Translations

Translations of the word "Erinyes" in other languages:

🇵🇹 Erínias

🇮🇳 एरीनीज़

🇩🇪 Erinnyen

🇮🇩 Erinyes

🇺🇦 Еринії

🇵🇱 Erynie

🇯🇵 エリーニュス

🇫🇷 Érinyes

🇪🇸 Erinias

🇹🇷 Erinyeler

🇰🇷 에리니에스

🇸🇦 إرينيات

🇨🇿 Erinye

🇸🇰 Erinye

🇨🇳 厄里倪厄斯

🇸🇮 Erinije

🇮🇸 Erinýur

🇰🇿 Эринии

🇬🇪 ერინიები

🇦🇿 Eriniyalar

🇲🇽 Erinias