How Do You Spell HECATOMB?

Pronunciation: [hˈɛkɐtˌuːm] (IPA)

The word "hecatomb" is derived from the Greek word hekatombē, meaning a sacrifice of 100 oxen. Interestingly, the spelling of the word does not correlate directly with its pronunciation. The IPA phonetic transcription for "hecatomb" is /ˈhɛk.ə.tuːm/, with the stress on the second syllable. The letter "c" is pronounced as a soft "k" sound, while the "b" at the end is silent. Despite its unusual spelling, "hecatomb" is a fascinating word with an interesting origin.

HECATOMB Meaning and Definition

1. Hecatomb is a noun that refers to a large-scale and typically public sacrifice or slaughter of animals, often seen in ancient civilizations as an offering to the gods. The term originated from ancient Greece, specifically deriving from the Greek words "hekaton" (meaning "hundred") and "bous" (meaning "ox"). Originally, it designated a solemn ritual sacrifice of a hundred oxen.

   However, the meaning and usage of hecatomb have evolved over time. Presently, it is more commonly used in a figurative sense to describe any mass killing or large-scale disaster resulting in the loss of numerous lives or substantial destruction. This broader definition aligns with the metaphorical extension of the term to describe any event, regardless of intent, in which a multitude of individuals or things are sacrificed or destroyed.

   Considering its historical and metaphorical significance, hecatomb carries a weighty connotation, often evoking images of great tragedy, loss, or devastation. Whether referring to a literal animal sacrifice in ancient times or symbolizing a contemporary catastrophe, the word hecatomb serves as a poignant reminder of the immense scale and gravity of the event at hand.

2. In anc. Greece or Rome, the sacrifice of a hundred oxen at one time; any destruction or sacrifice of a large number of victims.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for HECATOMB

• gecatomb
• becatomb
• necatomb
• jecatomb
• uecatomb
• yecatomb
• hwcatomb
• hscatomb
• hdcatomb
• hrcatomb
• h4catomb
• h3catomb
• hexatomb
• hevatomb
• hefatomb
• hedatomb
• hecztomb
• hecstomb
• hecwtomb

Etymology of HECATOMB

The word "hecatomb" has its origins in ancient Greek. It comes from the combination of two Greek words, "hekaton" meaning "hundred" and "bous" meaning "ox". In ancient Greece, a hecatomb referred to a sacrifice of 100 oxen or cattle made to the gods as a grand offering or as an act of purification. Over time, the term "hecatomb" began to be used more broadly to describe any large-scale sacrifice or offering, often involving the slaughter of numerous animals. In modern usage, the word has evolved to signify a large-scale slaughter or sacrifice, often metaphorically referring to a significant loss or destruction of lives.

Similar spelling words for HECATOMB

• heston,
• heaston.

Plural form of HECATOMB is HECATOMBS