MYTH Meaning and
Definition
-
A myth is a traditional tale or story that explains the beliefs, customs, or natural occurrences of a society as perceived by its members. It is a type of narrative that typically involves gods, supernatural beings, heroes, and magical elements. Myths often serve as vehicles for expressing the religious, moral, and philosophical ideas of a culture, providing a framework for understanding the world and one's place in it.
Myths usually involve legendary characters and events, portraying them as factual occurrences or explaining their significance symbolically. They encompass a wide range of themes and can be classified into various categories such as creation myths, hero myths, and divine myths. These stories are generally passed down orally from generation to generation, sustaining cultural tradition and providing a shared understanding of a community's history and values.
The power of myths lies not only in their ability to entertain, but also in their ability to shape and influence societies. They often offer explanations for natural phenomena, provide moral lessons, and establish cultural norms. Myths can create a sense of identity, reinforce social order, and impart knowledge about the world and the supernatural.
While myths are often associated with ancient civilizations and religions, they continue to exist in various forms in contemporary society. They can be found in literature, movies, and even popular beliefs and urban legends. The inherent flexibility and adaptability of myths allow them to evolve and remain relevant throughout time, making them an integral part of human culture.
-
A fanciful narrative, in some respects founded on real events; a creation of the imagination; a poetic fiction; a fable.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for MYTH *
* 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.
Other Common Misspellings for MYTH
Etymology of MYTH
The word "myth" originates from the Greek word "mythos" (μῦθος). In ancient Greek, "mythos" referred to a story or a narrative. It encompassed not only fictional stories but also traditional tales, legends, and accounts of gods, goddesses, heroes, and various supernatural beings. The term later evolved to encompass religious, philosophical, and cultural narratives.
Similar spelling word for MYTH
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
