Mythological: meaning, definitions and examples
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mythological
[ˌmɪθəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ]
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 children’s 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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "mythological" in other languages:
🇵🇹 mitológico
🇮🇳 पौराणिक
🇩🇪 mythologisch
🇮🇩 mitologi
🇺🇦 міфологічний
🇵🇱 mitologiczny
🇯🇵 神話的 (しんわてき)
🇫🇷 mythologique
🇪🇸 mitológico
🇹🇷 mitolojik
🇰🇷 신화적인
🇸🇦 أسطوري
🇨🇿 mytologický
🇸🇰 mytologický
🇨🇳 神话的
🇸🇮 mitološki
🇮🇸 goðsagnakenndur
🇰🇿 мифологиялық
🇬🇪 მითოლოგიური
🇦🇿 mitoloji
🇲🇽 mitológico