Mythic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🐉
Add to dictionary

mythic

[ˈmɪθɪk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

fantasy world

relating to or resembling myth; existing only in myth; imaginary

Synonyms

fabulous, fantastical, legendary, mythical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
mythic

Used to describe something that is like a myth, usually very old or ancient, and often of historical or cultural importance.

  • The adventurer sought the mythic city buried in the sands.
  • Her beauty was of mythic proportions.
legendary

Typically used to describe something or someone that is very famous or renowned, often due to remarkable achievements or qualities. It can also pertain to legends.

  • She is a legendary singer known across the world.
  • The city is known for its legendary festivals.
mythical

Pertains to myths, usually indicating something that belongs to or comes from mythology. Often used to describe beings or stories that are not real.

  • The unicorn is a mythical creature.
  • They embarked on a quest for the mythical fountain of youth.
fabulous

Commonly used to describe something that is extraordinarily good or impressive, often in an exaggerated way. It can also imply something related to fables or stories.

  • She had a fabulous time at the concert.
  • The landscape was straight out of a fabulous tale.
fantastical

Refers to something that belongs to the realm of fantasy, often very imaginative, unusual, or bizarre.

  • The movie featured a fantastical world full of dragons and magic.
  • His fantastical stories captivate children and adults alike.

Examples of usage

  • The novel is set in a mythic medieval kingdom.
  • She described the creature as a mythic being with magical powers.
  • The painting depicted a mythic scene of gods and goddesses.
  • The legend of King Arthur is full of mythic elements.
  • In some cultures, there are stories of mythic creatures like dragons and unicorns.
Context #2 | Noun

fantasy literature

a traditional or legendary story, especially one that involves gods and heroes

Synonyms

folklore, legend, mythology.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
mythic

Use when describing something that has the qualities of a myth, often implying greatness and unrealism. It often carries a sense of awe or wonder.

  • The unicorns in the story are mythic creatures.
  • Her achievements in sports are almost mythic.
legend

Best for describing a traditional story sometimes popularly regarded as historical but not authenticated. It can also refer to a person who is famous for doing something extraordinary.

  • There's a legend about a hidden treasure in this forest.
  • Michael Jordan is a basketball legend.
folklore

Useful when talking about traditional stories, beliefs, or customs of a community or nation, often passed down orally through generations.

  • The folklore of this region is rich with tales of ancient heroes.
  • He loves studying Irish folklore.
mythology

References the collected myths of a certain culture or religion, or the study of such myths. It can be used to talk about these stories collectively.

  • Greek mythology is full of fascinating deities and monsters.
  • She's an expert in Norse mythology.

Examples of usage

  • The ancient Greeks had many mythic tales about their gods and goddesses.
  • Myths often serve as a way to explain natural phenomena.
  • The hero's journey is a common theme in mythic storytelling.

Translations

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

Origin of 'mythic'

The word 'mythic' originated from the Greek word 'muthikos', meaning 'of or pertaining to myths'. Myths have played a significant role in human culture throughout history, serving as sacred narratives that explain the origins of the world and human existence. The concept of mythic stories has been prevalent in various civilizations, shaping beliefs, traditions, and values. Today, the term 'mythic' is often used in literature and art to evoke a sense of wonder and imagination.


See also: myth, mythical, mythicism, mythological, mythology, mythos, myths.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,459, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.