Pharos: meaning, definitions and examples
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pharos
[ ˈfɛərɒs ]
historical structure
A pharos is an ancient lighthouse, especially one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, specifically the Lighthouse of Alexandria. These structures were designed to guide sailors safely into harbor by sending signals via fire or smoke.
Synonyms
beacon, lighthouse, signal tower.
Examples of usage
- The Pharos of Alexandria was one of the tallest man-made structures of the ancient world.
- Many ancient civilizations built pharoses along their coasts to aid navigation.
- The term 'pharos' comes from the famous lighthouse on the island of Pharos in Egypt.
Etymology
The word 'pharos' originally comes from the Greek word 'Pharos', referring to the small island off the coast of Alexandria in Egypt, where the famous lighthouse was built during the reign of Ptolemy II. This lighthouse, known as the Lighthouse of Alexandria, was constructed around 280 BCE and stood approximately 100 meters tall, making it one of the tallest structures of the ancient world. The lighthouse used a system of mirrors and fires to reflect light, guiding sailors safely into Alexandria’s busy harbor. Over time, the term 'pharos' became synonymous with lighthouses and similar navigational aids, reflecting the importance of these structures in maritime navigation throughout history. The concept of a 'pharos' has since been adopted into various languages, symbolizing guidance and safety at sea.