Sphinx: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿฆ
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sphinx

 

[ sfษชล‹ks ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

ancient mythology

In ancient mythology, a sphinx is a creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human, often depicted as a guardian of important sites, such as temples. It is a symbol of strength and mystery, frequently associated with riddles and enigmas. The most famous sphinx is the Great Sphinx of Giza in Egypt, which is thought to represent the pharaoh Khafre. The sphinx has been utilized in various art and literature throughout history as a representation of protective power.

Synonyms

enigma, guardian, mythical creature

Examples of usage

  • The riddle of the sphinx puzzled many travelers.
  • In mythology, the sphinx guarded the entrance to the city.
  • The Great Sphinx is a remarkable ancient structure.
  • She felt like a sphinx, holding secrets untold.
Context #2 | Noun

architecture

In architecture, a sphinx often refers to a statue or representation of the mythical creature placed at the entrances of temples or tombs. These sculptures are characterized by their regal posture and intricate details. They are used as both decorative elements and symbols of protection in various cultures. The presence of sphinx statues in ancient civilizations signified the importance of the place they guarded.

Synonyms

architectural feature, monument, statue

Examples of usage

  • The temple was flanked by two grand sphinxes.
  • Sphinx statues adorned the ancient ruins.
  • They discovered a sphinx in the archaeological site.
  • The architecture featured multiple sphinx figures.

Translations

Translations of the word "sphinx" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น esfinge

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคธเฅเคซเคฟเค‚เค•เฅเคธ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Sphinx

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ sphinx

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ัั„ั–ะฝะบั

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ sfinks

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใ‚นใƒ•ใ‚ฃใƒณใ‚ฏใ‚น

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท sphinx

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ esfinge

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท sfenks

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์Šคํ•‘ํฌ์Šค

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุฃุจูˆ ุงู„ู‡ูˆู„

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ sfinga

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ sfinga

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๆ–ฏ่Šฌๅ…‹ๆ–ฏ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ sfinga

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ sfingx

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ัั„ะธะฝะบั

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒกแƒžแƒ˜แƒœแƒฅแƒกแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ sfinks

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ esfinge

Etymology

The word 'sphinx' comes from the Greek 'sphynx', which is derived from the verb 'sphyngล', meaning 'to squeeze' or 'to bind'. This reflects the creature's role in mythology, where it poses riddles and 'squeezes' the answers out of those who dare to approach it. The sphinx has roots in Egyptian mythology, where it was a significant symbol often represented as a lion with a human head, embodying strength and wisdom. The Great Sphinx of Giza, constructed around 2500 BC, is one of the earliest and largest examples of this figure, reflecting the cultural importance of the sphinx in both Egyptian and later Greek mythologies. Through time, the sphinx has evolved into a symbol of mystery and knowledge, inspiring various works of art and literature across different cultures.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,245, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.