Mythological Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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mythological
[หmษชฮธษหlษdสษชkษl ]
Definitions
related to myths
Relating to or found in myths; of, relating to, or characteristic of mythology.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mythological |
Identical to the first entry for 'mythological'.
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| legendary |
Used to describe someone or something that is famous and often admired for a particular skill or achievement. It can also refer to something well-known from ancient stories. This word is frequently used in everyday speech and storytelling.
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| mythic |
Used to describe something that has the qualities or characteristics of a myth, often implying something grand, significant, or larger-than-life. This term can be slightly more poetic or literary.
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| mythical |
Used to describe something that belongs to or relates to myths; sometimes also used to describe something imaginary or fictional. This term is common in both everyday and literary contexts.
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Examples of usage
- Mythological creatures like unicorns and dragons are often featured in fantasy literature.
- The ancient Greeks had a rich mythological tradition, with gods and heroes playing key roles in their stories.
existing only in myths
Existing only in myth; purely imaginary.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mythological |
Used when referring to ancient myths, legends, or traditional stories involving gods, heroes, or supernatural figures.
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| fictional |
Used to describe something that exists only in stories, novels, movies, or other works of fiction.
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| imaginary |
Used for something that is made up in the mind and does not exist in reality, often to describe childrenโs fantasies or invented scenarios.
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| unreal |
Usually used to describe something that seems too strange or fantastic to be true, often used informally or with a touch of disbelief. This word can have a negative connotation if implying something is implausible or not grounded in reality.
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Examples of usage
- The mythological land of Atlantis has captured the imagination of many throughout history.
- Her powers were said to be mythological, capable of bending reality to her will.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Many cultures have mythological tales that share moral lessons, such as the importance of bravery or kindness.
- The mythology of ancient cultures, like Greek and Roman, still influences modern literature, art, and even movies.
Psychology
- Joseph Campbell's concept of the 'monomyth' explains how many world myths follow a similar storytelling pattern.
- Mythological themes often reflect deep human concerns, such as creation, death, and the hero's journey, tapping into collective unconscious.
Literature
- Numerous famous works of literature draw inspiration from mythological stories, such as Homer's 'The Iliad' and 'The Odyssey.'
- Modern authors often reinterpret mythological themes, making them relevant for contemporary audiences, like Neil Gaiman's 'American Gods.'
Art and Representation
- Mythological figures like Zeus and Hercules have been depicted in sculptures and paintings throughout history, showcasing their cultural significance.
- The Renaissance revived interest in mythology, leading to masterpieces by artists like Botticelli and Raphael, which celebrated these ancient stories.
Origin of 'mythological'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from 'mythos' meaning 'story' or 'speech' in Greek, combined with 'logos,' meaning 'study' or 'discourse.'
- Mythological stories often served as explanations for natural events long before science provided answers.
The word 'mythological' is derived from the noun 'mythology', which comes from the Greek word 'muthologia', meaning 'a story' or 'a tale of the gods'. Myths have been an integral part of human culture for centuries, serving as ways to explain natural phenomena, teach moral lessons, and provide entertainment. The study of mythology has been an important field in various academic disciplines, including literature, anthropology, and religion.
See also: myth, mythic, mythical, mythicism, mythology, mythos, myths.