Pronunciation: [dˈaɡɒn] (IPA) 
The word "dagon" is spelled with two syllables: [ˈdeɪɡən]. The first syllable is pronounced like the word "day" and the second syllable is pronounced with a short "o" sound as in "not". In English, the letter "g" can be pronounced two ways: a hard "g" as in "go" or a soft "g" as in "gym". In "dagon", the "g" is pronounced as a soft "g". "Dagon" can be used as a proper name or as a variant of "daggon", which is a slang term meaning "damn".
Dagon is a noun that refers to a Philistine deity revered by ancient civilizations in the Near East, particularly the Philistines. In mythology and religious practices, Dagon was often depicted as a fish-like god with the upper body of a human and the lower body of a fish. This representation symbolized fertility, abundance, and the connection between land and sea.
The worship of Dagon was prominent among the coastal regions, such as modern-day Israel, Lebanon, and Syria. The deity was believed to be the patron of agriculture, grain, and harvest, making agricultural communities highly reliant on his blessings for a bountiful crop yield. As a result, rituals and ceremonies were dedicated to Dagon to seek prosperity and protection.
The origin of the name Dagon is uncertain, with some theories suggesting a possible etymological link to the Hebrew word "dag," meaning fish. However, scholars have also connected Dagon's name to ancient Akkadian, Sumerian, and Ugaritic languages, indicating cross-cultural influences and the deity's widespread veneration.
In popular culture and literature, Dagon has been featured in various works of fiction, including H.P. Lovecraft's short story "Dagon." Lovecraft portrays Dagon as an ancient, otherworldly deity associated with the sea and horror. Such interpretations have contributed to Dagon becoming a symbol of the unknown, the unnatural, and sometimes even malevolence.
The national god of the anc. Philistines, &c., represented with the face and hands of a man and the tail of a fish.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
