How Do You Spell SISYPHEAN?

Pronunciation: [sˈɪsɪfˌi͡ən] (IPA)

Sisyphean, meaning endless and futile, is often misspelled due to its complexity. The word derives from the Greek mythological figure Sisyphus, punished by the gods to push a boulder up a hill only for it to roll back down for eternity. In IPA phonetic transcription, Sisyphean is pronounced /sɪsəˈfiːən/, with the stress on the second syllable. The spelling can be tricky due to the letter combination "s-y-s-p-h-e-a-n", but proper knowledge of the origin of the word can help with its spelling.

SISYPHEAN Meaning and Definition

1. Sisyphean is an adjective that describes a task or activity that is seemingly endless, futile, or lacking in any possibility of success. It is derived from the Greek myth of Sisyphus, a character who was condemned by the gods to forever roll a large boulder up a hill, only to have it roll back down before reaching the top, thus forcing him to repeat the task eternally.

   This term is often used to convey the idea of a never-ending and fruitless endeavor, wherein one toils tirelessly without making any progress or achieving the desired outcome. Sisyphean tasks are characterized by their ultimate pointlessness or senselessness, resulting in a feeling of frustration, hopelessness, or absurdity for those engaged in them.

   The concept of Sisyphean tasks can be found in various aspects of life, such as in personal struggles, professional challenges, or even societal issues. It can refer to repetitive and monotonous tasks with no meaningful end in sight or larger structural problems that seem unsolvable.

   The term is often used metaphorically to describe situations where individuals or groups feel trapped in an endless cycle of effort and disappointment. It carries a sense of the futility of actions and the understanding that no matter how hard one may work or persevere, the desired outcome will always remain out of reach.

2. Relating to Sisyphus; incessantly recurring.

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

Common Misspellings for SISYPHEAN

• aisyphean
• zisyphean
• xisyphean
• disyphean
• sisiphean
• isophean
• Wiskfern
• Sisypheon

Etymology of SISYPHEAN

The word "Sisyphean" comes from Greek mythology, specifically from the story of King Sisyphus. Sisyphus was a figure in Greek mythology condemned by the gods to ceaselessly roll a large rock up a hill, only to have it roll back down just as he reached the top. This task was considered futile and never-ending.

The adjective "Sisyphean" has been derived from the name Sisyphus and is used to describe any task or activity that is repetitive, laborious, and ultimately without end or purpose. It conveys the notion of a never-ending struggle or an effort that is doomed to failure.