Medusas Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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medusas

[mɪˈdjuːzəs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

mythology

In Greek mythology, Medusas were three sisters with snakes for hair and the ability to turn anyone who looked at them into stone. They were slain by the hero Perseus.

Synonyms

Gorgons, monsters.

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Word Description / Examples
medusas

As in a repeated scenario, use 'medusas' with the same context as mentioned previously. Proper verification also reveals its accurate context when mentioning the mythological aspects.

  • Legend tells that medusas could petrify anyone who looked directly at them.
  • Artists from the Renaissance often depicted medusas in their works.
Gorgons

This term is best used when mentioning the group of three sisters from Greek mythology, which includes Medusa, Stheno, and Euryale. The word is broader and encompasses all three of them.

  • The Gorgons were fearsome creatures in Greek mythology.
  • Unlike Medusa, her sisters, the Gorgons, were immortal.
monsters

This term is suitable for a more general context when you want to describe any kind of frightening or sinister creature, not necessarily mythical or specific to Greek mythology. This word carries negative connotations about the creature's nature.

  • The forest was said to be haunted by terrifying monsters.
  • In folklore, monsters often represent the unknown and feared aspects of human nature.

Examples of usage

  • Perseus used a mirror to avoid looking directly at the Medusas.
  • The Medusas were known for their deadly gaze.
  • The story of the Medusas is a popular mythological tale.

Translations

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

Origin of 'medusas'

The word 'Medusas' is derived from the Greek mythology story of Medusa, one of the three Gorgon sisters. Medusa was originally a beautiful maiden who was transformed into a monster with snakes for hair by the goddess Athena. The Medusas were feared for their ability to turn people into stone with just one look. The story of the Medusas has been a popular theme in art, literature, and culture, symbolizing the power of female rage and the consequences of hubris.