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Leviathan Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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leviathan

[lɪˈvaɪəθən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

mythical creature

The term 'leviathan' refers to a large sea monster mentioned in various religious texts, including the Bible. It is often depicted as a formidable and chaotic force of nature, embodying the power of the ocean. In modern usage, the term can symbolize something massive and intimidating, especially in contexts involving government or corporate entities. The leviathan has become a metaphor for overwhelming power and dominance in both literature and political discourse.

Synonyms

behemoth, giant, monster.

Examples of usage

  • The leviathan of the deep sea strikes fear into sailors.
  • In Hobbes' political theory, the state is likened to a leviathan.
  • Many myths feature a leviathan as a representation of chaos.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Leviathan appears in the Bible, particularly in the Book of Job, symbolizing chaos and the unknown.
  • Thomas Hobbes wrote a political treatise called 'Leviathan' in 1651, where he used the creature as a metaphor for a powerful state.
  • In modern literature, leviathans are often featured in fantasy novels and movies, representing unbeatable foes.

Pop Culture

  • Leviathan is a popular term in video games like 'Final Fantasy' and 'Bloodborne,' often used for powerful monsters.
  • In the animated series 'The Little Mermaid,' a giant sea creature named 'Leviathan' is referenced.
  • The term has been used in various titles across music, like the album 'Leviathan' by the band Mastodon.

Science

  • In marine biology, the term can refer to the concept of giant sea creatures, often sparking interest in cryptozoology.
  • Some scientists use the term metaphorically to describe massive oceanic phenomena, like giant waves or enormous underwater structures.
  • The phenomenon of the 'Leviathan' squid was once thought to be a myth, but certain giant squids have been discovered.

Psychology

  • In psychological terms, the leviathan can symbolize the fear of the unknown in our deep-seated thoughts.
  • The term is also used to explain the struggle against overwhelming powers or ideologies in society.
  • Leviathan can represent the internal monster that individuals may face in terms of their fears and anxieties.

Origin of 'leviathan'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'leviathan' comes from the Hebrew 'livyatan,' which means 'twisted' or 'coiled.'
  • It was first used in English in the 14th century, adopted from the Latin form of the word.
  • In biblical texts, the leviathan is often depicted as a sea creature created by God.

The word 'leviathan' originates from the Hebrew term 'livyathan', which means 'twisted' or 'coiled'. This ancient word appears in the Bible, particularly in the Book of Job, where it describes a powerful creature. The Leviathan is often interpreted as a representation of evil or chaos, particularly in the context of creation mythology. Over time, the term has evolved and been adopted into various languages and cultures. In the 17th century, philosopher Thomas Hobbes used the term 'Leviathan' to describe his concept of a powerful sovereign, illustrating the relationship between the state and its subjects. The word has since permeated various fields of study, including literature, philosophy, and political science, to denote anything that is vast, powerful, and difficult to control.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,800 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.