Pronunciation: [lˈabəɹˌɪnθ] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "labyrinth" may be confusing as it contains the silent letter "y." It is pronounced as "LAB-uh-rinth" with the stress on the first syllable. The word derives from Greek, where it was spelled "labyrinthos" with the "y" pronounced as /u/, hence the vowel shift in the English spelling. A labyrinth refers to a complex and confusing series of paths or tunnels, usually associated with a maze.
A labyrinth is a complex and intricate structure that consists of a series of interconnected and winding pathways, passages, or corridors, typically leading to a central point or goal. Derived from Greek mythology, specifically the legend of the Minotaur in the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur, a labyrinth is known for its intricate design and the challenges it presents to those who navigate through it.
Typically, labyrinths are designed to confuse and disorient, with numerous dead ends and multiple possible paths. They are often used as metaphors for the complexities and challenges of life, representing the confusion and uncertainty individuals may face in their journeys.
Labyrinths can take various forms, including architectural structures, mazes, or even abstract designs on the ground. They can be found in different cultures throughout history, serving various purposes such as religious, spiritual, or ceremonial activities. In some cases, labyrinths are used as meditation or walking paths, offering individuals a chance for self-reflection, contemplation, or a physical journey representing a symbolic, inward journey.
Overall, a labyrinth refers to a perplexing and intricate structure, often with multiple paths and challenges, leading individuals through a series of twists and turns towards a central objective or self-discovery.
1. The internal ear, comprising the semicircular canals, vestibule, and cochlea; see labyrinthus. 2. Any group of communicating cavities, as in each lateral mass of the ethmoid bone, labyrinthus ethmoidalis. 3. Pars convoluta of a cortical lobule of the kidney; the portion of kidney cortex intervening between the pyramids of Ferrein; it contains the Malpighian corpuscles and convoluted tubules. 4. A group of upright test-tubes terminating below in a base of communicating, alternately U- and П-shaped tubes, used for isolating motile from non-motile organisms in culture, or a motile from a less motile organism (as the typhoid from the colon bacillus) the former travelling faster and farther through the tubes than the latter (see cut).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A place full of intricacies or inextricable windings; a maze; an inexplicable difficulty; the internal ear, from its complex structure.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "labyrinth" has its origins in ancient Greek. The Greek word "labyrinthos" is believed to have been derived from the Minoan language, but its exact meaning is uncertain. In Greek mythology, the labyrinth was an elaborate maze constructed by the legendary architect Daedalus, to imprison the terrifying Minotaur. Over time, the term "labyrinth" came to represent any complex and confusing structure or arrangement, both physically and metaphorically.
