Sphinx: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฆ
sphinx
[ sfษชลks ]
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.
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:
๐ต๐น esfinge
๐ฎ๐ณ เคธเฅเคซเคฟเคเคเฅเคธ
๐ฉ๐ช Sphinx
๐ฎ๐ฉ sphinx
๐บ๐ฆ ัััะฝะบั
๐ต๐ฑ sfinks
๐ฏ๐ต ในใใฃใณใฏใน
๐ซ๐ท sphinx
๐ช๐ธ esfinge
๐น๐ท sfenks
๐ฐ๐ท ์คํํฌ์ค
๐ธ๐ฆ ุฃุจู ุงูููู
๐จ๐ฟ sfinga
๐ธ๐ฐ sfinga
๐จ๐ณ ๆฏ่ฌๅ ๆฏ
๐ธ๐ฎ sfinga
๐ฎ๐ธ sfingx
๐ฐ๐ฟ ััะธะฝะบั
๐ฌ๐ช แกแแแแฅแกแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ sfinks
๐ฒ๐ฝ 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.