Herculean: meaning, definitions and examples
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herculean
[ hɜrˈkjuːliən ]
great effort
The term 'Herculean' is derived from the mythological hero Hercules, known for his extraordinary strength and numerous feats that required immense effort. It describes tasks or efforts that are extremely difficult and require great strength, endurance, or determination to accomplish. Often used to denote challenges that seem overwhelming or almost impossible, it implies a monumental scale of exertion or hardship. In both everyday language and literature, it evokes the legendary status of Hercules as a symbol of human strength and resilience.
Synonyms
colossal, formidable, gigantic, monumental
Examples of usage
- Completing the project on time was a Herculean task for the team.
- She faced a Herculean effort to climb the mountain without assistance.
- The rescue operation required Herculean strength and teamwork.
Translations
Translations of the word "herculean" in other languages:
🇵🇹 hercúleo
🇮🇳 हरक्यूलियन
🇩🇪 herkulisch
🇮🇩 Hercules
🇺🇦 геркулесовий
🇵🇱 herkulesowy
🇯🇵 ヘラクレスの
🇫🇷 hérculéen
🇪🇸 hercúleo
🇹🇷 Herkül gibi
🇰🇷 헤라클레스의
🇸🇦 هرقل
🇨🇿 herkulovský
🇸🇰 herkulovský
🇨🇳 海克力的
🇸🇮 herkulovski
🇮🇸 herkúleslegur
🇰🇿 Геркулес
🇬🇪 ჰერკულესური
🇦🇿 Herkules
🇲🇽 hercúleo
Etymology
The word 'Herculean' traces its origins to the name of the Roman mythological hero Hercules, who is equivalent to the Greek hero Heracles. In ancient mythology, Hercules was famed for his strength and for completing the 'Twelve Labors,' which were tasks that required extraordinary feats of bravery and endurance. The term began to emerge in the English language by the 19th century, as people started using it to describe tasks or efforts that are akin to the immense challenges faced by Hercules. Over time, 'Herculean' evolved into an adjective that not only encompasses physical strength but also implies a monumental effort required to overcome any significant obstacle. It reflects a cultural fascination with the legendary hero and his enduring legacy of strength in the face of adversity, as well as the human experience of striving to achieve remarkable goals.