Mythological: meaning, definitions and examples

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mythological

 

[ˌmɪθəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

related to myths

Relating to or found in myths; of, relating to, or characteristic of mythology.

Synonyms

legendary, mythic, mythical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mythological

Identical to the first entry for 'mythological'.

  • The mythological stories about Thor and Loki are fascinating.
  • Students often study mythological themes in literature classes.
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.

  • Muhammad Ali is a legendary boxer known for his incredible skill and charisma.
  • The legendary tales of King Arthur have captivated audiences for centuries.
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.

  • The hero of the story undertook a mythic journey to save his kingdom.
  • This film has a mythic quality, with its sweeping landscapes and epic battles.
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.

  • Unicorns are mythical creatures often depicted in stories and folklore.
  • She spoke of a mythical land where happiness reigned supreme.

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.
Context #2 | Adjective

existing only in myths

Existing only in myth; purely imaginary.

Synonyms

fictional, imaginary, unreal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mythological

Used when referring to ancient myths, legends, or traditional stories involving gods, heroes, or supernatural figures.

  • The Norse mythological creatures include giants, dwarves, and elves
fictional

Used to describe something that exists only in stories, novels, movies, or other works of fiction.

  • Sherlock Holmes is a fictional detective created by Arthur Conan Doyle
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.

  • As a child, she had an imaginary friend she talked to every day
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.

  • The beauty of the sunset was so stunning that it felt unreal

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

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

Etymology

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.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,915, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.