Hydra: meaning, definitions and examples

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hydra

 

[หˆhaษช.drษ™ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mythology creature

In Greek mythology, the Hydra is a serpentine water monster with multiple heads; when one head is cut off, two more grow back in its place. It was said to dwell in the Lerna swamp and was known for its incredible regenerative abilities. The Hydra was famously defeated by the hero Heracles as one of his Twelve Labors. It symbolizes the challenges of confronting a seemingly invincible foe and represents the idea that problems can multiply if not dealt with properly.

Synonyms

monster, mythical beast, serpent.

Examples of usage

  • Heracles fought the Hydra.
  • The Hydra had nine heads.
  • Cutting off a head only made it worse.
  • The Lernaean Hydra is a famous myth.
Context #2 | Noun

biological genus

Hydra, as a genus of small, freshwater organisms, belongs to the phylum Cnidaria. These organisms are known for their regenerative capabilities and lack of a defined body segment. Typically found in clean, temperate waters, Hydras can reproduce both sexually and asexually, allowing them to thrive in various environments. Their study contributes significantly to understanding cellular regeneration and development.

Synonyms

cnidarian, freshwater polyp, organism.

Examples of usage

  • Hydra can regenerate its cells.
  • The study of Hydra aids biotechnology.
  • Hydra are found in freshwater habitats.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'hydra' comes from the Greek word 'hudra,' meaning 'water snake,' which connects to its association with water.
  • In ancient Greek mythology, hydras were often depicted as serpent-like monsters that lived in swamps or lakes.

Mythology

  • The most famous hydra is the Lernaean Hydra, which Heracles (Hercules) faced as one of his twelve labors.
  • Each head of the hydra had its own abilities, making it a formidable opponent; one such head was immortal.

Science

  • In biology, 'hydra' refers to a genus of small, fresh-water organisms known for their regenerative capabilities, similar to their mythological namesake.
  • These tiny creatures can regenerate from small pieces of their body, showcasing impressive healing properties.

Pop Culture

  • The hydra has appeared in various films and video games, often depicted as a multi-headed creature that poses a significant challenge to heroes.
  • Marvel Comics features an organization called 'Hydra,' led by villains and known for their secretive nature and global ambitions.

Literature

  • The hydra has inspired countless adaptations in literature, symbolizing challenges that get more difficult as you try to overcome them.
  • In modern storytelling, it often represents struggles against overwhelming odds, requiring cleverness and persistence to defeat.

Translations

Translations of the word "hydra" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น hidra

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคนเคพเค‡เคกเฅเคฐเคพ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Hydra

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ hidra

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะณั–ะดั€ะฐ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ hydra

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใƒ’ใƒ‰ใƒฉ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท hydre

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ hidra

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท hidra

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ํžˆ๋“œ๋ผ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ู‡ูŠุฏุฑุง

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ hydra

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ hydra

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ไนๅคด่›‡

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ hidra

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ hรฝdra

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะณะธะดั€ะฐ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒฐแƒ˜แƒ“แƒ แƒ

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ hidra

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ hidra

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,304, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.