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Immortals Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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immortals

[ɪˈmɔːt(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

Greek mythology

Immortals are beings who live forever and cannot die. In Greek mythology, they are usually gods or demigods who possess eternal life.

Synonyms

deities, divinities, eternals.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
immortals

This word is often used to describe beings who live forever, typically in mythology, fantasy, or science fiction. It can be used in both positive and neutral contexts.

  • In the ancient tales, the immortals watched over the world from their celestial abode
  • Vampires are often portrayed as immortals in horror stories
deities

This term is used specifically to refer to gods and goddesses in various religious and mythological contexts. It has a reverent connotation.

  • In Greek mythology, Zeus and Hera are prominent deities
  • The ancient Egyptians worshipped numerous deities, each symbolizing different aspects of life
divinities

Similar to 'deities', this word also refers to gods and goddesses, often emphasizing their divine nature and qualities. It is generally used in a formal or religious context.

  • The temple was adorned with statues of various divinities
  • Scholars studied the ancient texts to understand the divinities worshipped by early civilizations
eternals

This term is less common and is generally used in specific contexts such as certain fiction or comic book universes to describe beings who have eternal life or exist outside of time.

  • In the Marvel Universe, the Eternals are a race of superhuman beings created by the Celestials
  • The legend spoke of the Eternals who guarded the realms beyond the stars

Examples of usage

  • The Greek gods and goddesses were considered immortals.
  • In some stories, demigods were granted immortality by the gods.
Context #2 | Noun

Literature

In literature, immortals can refer to characters who are exceptionally long-lived or have the ability to live forever.

Synonyms

eternals, everlastings, undead.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
immortals

Use 'immortals' when referring to beings who cannot die and live forever, usually in myths, legends, or fantasy stories.

  • The ancient gods were considered immortals, untouched by time and death
eternals

'Eternals' can be used to describe beings or entities that exist forever without end. This term is often found in science fiction or fantasy settings.

  • The Eternals watched over the universe for eons, ensuring balance and order
everlastings

'Everlastings' is a less common term and can be used in poetic or literary contexts to describe something that lasts forever.

  • The everlastings flowers bloomed with a beauty that seemed to defy time itself
undead

'Undead' should be used for supernatural creatures who have died but remain among the living, typically in horror or dark fantasy genres. This term has a negative connotation.

  • The village feared the return of the undead, creatures that haunted the night in search of victims

Examples of usage

  • The vampire in the novel was portrayed as an immortal being.
  • The wizard was one of the immortals who watched over the realm.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Mythology

  • In many cultures, deities are often referred to as immortals, such as the Greek gods on Mount Olympus who were believed to be ageless.
  • Hindu mythology features numerous immortal figures, including deities like Vishnu and Shiva who embody eternal cycles of life and death.

Literature

  • In Homer's 'The Iliad', characters become immortals through their legendary deeds and status among gods, influencing the idea of legacy.
  • Many modern novels feature immortal characters, such as in 'The Twilight Saga', where vampires possess eternal life as a central theme.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'There can be only one' from the 'Highlander' series encapsulates the struggle among immortals, blending action with themes of survival and legacy.
  • Movies like 'The Matrix' and 'The Fountain' explore themes of eternal life versus mortality, showing varying perspectives on immortals in human society.

Psychology

  • The desire for immortality can stem from a fear of death, leading individuals to seek ways to be remembered or leave a lasting impact.
  • Studies suggest that stories of immortals resonate deeply with people, reflecting their hopes and fears about life, legacy, and the unknown after death.

Origin of 'immortals'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'immortalem', meaning 'not subject to death'.
  • In ancient contexts, the prefix 'im-' indicates negation, while 'mortal' refers to beings that can die, illustrating the concept of undying life.

The concept of immortals has been a recurring theme in various mythologies and literary works throughout history. The idea of beings who possess eternal life has fascinated humans for centuries, leading to the creation of numerous stories and legends. From the Greek gods to modern-day vampire tales, immortals continue to capture the imagination of people around the world.

See also: immortality.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,340, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.