CYCLOPEAN Meaning and
Definition
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Cyclopean is an adjective that can be used to describe something related to or resembling the Cyclops, a race of giants from Greek mythology. In this context, it refers to their perceived immense size and strength.
However, the term "cyclopean" also has a more specific meaning in architecture. It is used to describe a particular style of ancient construction characterized by the use of large, irregularly shaped stones fitted together without mortar. These stones are often massive in size and can create the impression of great strength and durability, much like the Cyclops themselves. Cyclopean masonry has been found in various ancient civilizations and is notably present in structures such as the walls of Mycenae in Greece and the ancient Inca forts in Peru.
Furthermore, "cyclopean" can be used metaphorically to describe anything that is massive, formidable, or awe-inspiring in nature. For example, a towering skyscraper or an intricate and complex scientific theory can be described as "cyclopean" due to their impressive scale and impact.
In summary, "cyclopean" can refer to the mythological race of giants, a specific architectural style characterized by massive stone construction, or any object or concept that evokes a sense of power, size, or awe.
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Pert. to the Cyclops; vast; terrific; applied to those vast remains of anc. architecture, which consist of large unhewn masses of stones fitted together without mortar.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CYCLOPEAN
- xyclopean
- vyclopean
- fyclopean
- dyclopean
- ctclopean
- cgclopean
- chclopean
- cuclopean
- c7clopean
- c6clopean
- cyxlopean
- cyvlopean
- cyflopean
- cydlopean
- cyckopean
- cycpopean
- cycoopean
- cyclipean
- cyclkpean
Etymology of CYCLOPEAN
The word "cyclopean" comes from the Greek word "Kyklōpeios", which means "pertaining to Cyclops".
In Greek mythology, the Cyclops were a race of giants with a single eye in the middle of their forehead. They were known for their incredible strength and masonry skills. According to legend, the Cyclops built massive stone structures, including the walls of the ancient city of Mycenae and other ancient ruins, using huge rough-hewn stones.
The term "cyclopean" was later adopted in architectural and archaeological contexts to describe structures or walls made of large, irregularly shaped stones, similar to the constructions credited to the Cyclops. It has since been used to refer to any ancient stonework characterized by massive, rough stonework, without the use of mortar.
Similar spelling words for CYCLOPEAN
- cyclopterus,
- scaloppini,
- cyclone,
- skalbania,
- Skulpin,
- scallopine,
- cyclopian,
- cyclopes,
- cyclophorus,
- cyclopedia,
- scaloppine,
- cyclopia,
- scalopini,
- scalepan,
- cyclopaedia,
- scrollbone,
- cyclops,
- sculpin,
- skullbone,
- scallopini,
- cyclopropane.
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