The word "ambrosia" is commonly misspelled due to its unusual spelling. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /æmˈbroʊʒə/ with stress on the second syllable. The "b" is pronounced as "v" and the final "a" is pronounced as "uh", making it easy to overlook or forget. Ambrosia refers to a type of food or drink that is thought to be from the gods in Greek mythology, and is also a popular fruit salad in the United States.
Ambrosia is a noun that refers to a mythical substance in Greek and Roman mythology. In these ancient belief systems, ambrosia was said to be the food or drink consumed by the gods, conferring immortality and eternal youth upon them. It was thought to possess divine qualities, granting extraordinary strength and vitality to those who consumed it. Ambrosia was often described as having a sweet, heavenly aroma and a taste that surpassed all known delicacies.
In a more contemporary context, ambrosia can also refer to a type of dessert salad. This version typically consists of a mixture of various fruits, such as oranges, pineapples, maraschino cherries, and coconut, combined with whipped cream or sour cream. It is commonly served at festive occasions, such as holidays and potlucks, and enjoyed by many for its refreshing and indulgent flavors.
Metaphorically, ambrosia can be used to depict something exceptionally delicious, delightful, or pleasing. It may connote an experience or an object that is considered heavenly or sublime. It is often employed as vivid imagery to describe exceptional beauty, divine flavors, or any other experiential quality that stands out as extraordinary.
Overall, "ambrosia" carries a multifaceted meaning, encompassing both ancient mythology and a modern-day culinary confection. Whether referring to the nectar of the gods or a delectable dessert, the term evokes a sense of rare, exquisite beauty and irresistible delight.
Rag-weed, Roman wormwood, the flowering tops of Ambrosia artemisioefolia tonic and astringent; employed in eclectic practice in intermittents, diarrhea, hematuria, hemorrhoids, and various nervous states, in doses of gtt. 5-10 (0.3-0.6) of the specific preparation of 240 grains to the ounce of alcohol. The pollen causes hay fever.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Said by the ancients to have been the food of the gods; whatever is pleasant to the taste or smell.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "ambrosia" has its roots in ancient Greek mythology. It comes from the Greek word "ámbrotos", meaning "immortal" or "divine". In Greek mythology, ambrosia was often described as the food or drink of the gods, which provided immortality and eternal youth. It was believed to have a sweet and delicious taste, captivating the senses. Over time, the term "ambrosia" came to signify anything exceptionally pleasing or divine, and it eventually made its way into the English language as a metaphor for something of exquisite beauty or perfection, particularly in reference to food or drink.