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Eureka Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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eureka

[juหหˆriหkษ™ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Interjection

expression of joy

Eureka is an exclamation used to express triumph upon discovering something significant or making a breakthrough. It is often associated with scientific discoveries or personal revelations.

Synonyms

I found it, aha, finally, hooray.

Examples of usage

  • Eureka! I've found the solution to the problem.
  • When she finally solved the puzzle, she shouted, 'Eureka!'
  • The scientist exclaimed 'Eureka!' when he discovered the new element.
  • After hours of searching, he had a eureka moment about the project.
  • Eureka! That's the missing piece of the equation!

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In science, a 'eureka moment' refers to the instant when a scientist feels they've solved a complex problem or made a significant discovery.
  • Many scientific breakthroughs, like Einstein's theories, were marked by such moments of clarity.
  • The phrase is also linked to the excitement of experimentation when a scientist sees results that confirm their hypothesis.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'eureka' popped up in various films and books, symbolizing the thrill of discovery.
  • It's often featured in scenes where characters solve mysteries or invent new gadgets, highlighting triumph against odds.
  • The 2006 television series 'Eureka' focuses on a town filled with geniuses where inventions often lead to unexpected problems.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that 'eureka experiences' can lead to increased creativity and problem-solving skills.
  • These moments are often triggered when a person takes a break from the problem, allowing their subconscious to work on it.
  • Emotional excitement tied to 'eureka' moments can enhance memory retention of the newly learned information.

Literature

  • The word appears in various literary works, often symbolizing a character's moment of clarity or revelation.
  • Notable authors like James Joyce have used it to convey sudden realizations in their characters.
  • In children's literature, 'eureka' can represent the joy in learning and discovery, encouraging curiosity.

Origin of 'eureka'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Ancient Greek word 'heureka', which means 'I have found it'.
  • The phrase is famously attributed to the mathematician Archimedes, who shouted it after discovering how to measure the volume of an object.
  • Over time, it has become associated with moments of sudden insight or invention.

The word 'Eureka' is derived from the ancient Greek word 'ฮตแฝ•ฯฮทฮบฮฑ,' which translates to 'I have found it.' According to popular legend, the mathematician Archimedes exclaimed 'Eureka' when he discovered a method to determine the purity of gold, famously jumping out of his bath and running naked through the streets of Syracuse. This anecdote highlights the exhilaration of discovery and has made 'Eureka' a cultural reference point for teamwork and innovation across various disciplines. Throughout history, eureka has been used by numerous inventors and scientists, symbolizing those moments of inspiration that can lead to significant advancements and breakthroughs in understanding.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,820, 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.