Pronunciation: [pɑːθˈiːnə͡ʊz] (IPA) 
The word "parthenos" is spelled with the letters P-A-R-T-H-E-N-O-S. Its phonetic transcription in IPA is /pɑrˈθɛnɒs/. The "p" sound is followed by an "a" sound that is pronounced as in "father". The "r" sound is very distinct and is followed by a "th" sound. The "e" is pronounced as in "pet", the "n" is a nasal sound, and the "o" is pronounced as in "lot". The final "s" is pronounced as a hissing sound.
Parthenos is a Greek term that refers to a virgin or a young unmarried woman. It is derived from the Greek word "parthenia" meaning maidenhood or virginity. In ancient Greek mythology and religion, the term was often associated with the goddess Athena, who was considered a parthenos because she was born from the head of Zeus without a mother.
In the context of ancient Greek society, parthenos was a term used to describe the unmarried women who were considered to possess purity and innocence. It was understood as a social status that held high cultural and moral significance. Parthenos was also used as an honorific title for women who dedicated themselves to the service of a deity, particularly in a temple setting.
The term parthenos also had religious connotations, as it was used to describe certain female deities, nymphs, or other mythical figures who were associated with virginity and chastity. These parthenoi were often revered and worshipped for their purity and were believed to possess special powers or abilities.
In modern usage, the term is sometimes employed in a broader sense to refer to any young unmarried woman or as a euphemism for virginity. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who is inexperienced or untainted by certain aspects of life.
The word "parthenos" is derived from ancient Greek. It originates from the Proto-Indo-European root "gwher-", meaning "to desire, love", which later gave rise to the Greek word "parthenos", meaning "virgin". In Greek mythology, Parthenos was also the name of an Amazon queen, known for her purity and chastity. This word has been adopted in various contexts and languages to refer to the concept of virginity or a woman who has not had sexual relations.
