THERMOPYLAE Meaning and
Definition
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Thermopylae refers to a narrow coastal passage located in Central Greece, specifically in the region of Thessaly. The term is derived from the Greek words "thermo" meaning "hot" and "pylae" meaning "gates" or "passage." It gained historical significance due to an epic battle that took place there in 480 BCE during the Persian Wars.
The Battle of Thermopylae was fought between an alliance of Greek city-states led by King Leonidas I of Sparta and the vast Persian Empire under King Xerxes I. The Greek forces defended this strategic passageway to halt the advance of the Persian army into Greece. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the Greeks held their ground for several days, displaying extraordinary bravery and military prowess.
The battle ended with a Persian victory, but the Greek resistance bought valuable time for their allies to prepare for subsequent battles, ultimately leading to the defeat of the Persian invasion. The heroic sacrifice made by the Greek forces at Thermopylae has since become a symbol of defiance and courage against overwhelming odds.
Today, the term "Thermopylae" is often used metaphorically to describe a heroic stand against an impending threat or a symbolic battleground where a decisive struggle takes place. It serves as a reminder of the endurance and valor exhibited by the Greeks and the everlasting legacy of their resistance.
Common Misspellings for THERMOPYLAE
Etymology of THERMOPYLAE
The word "Thermopylae" has its roots in the Greek language. It is composed of two Greek words: "Thermos" (θερμός), meaning "hot", and "pyle" (πύλη), meaning "gate" or "pass". Therefore, "Thermopylae" translates to "Hot Gates" or "Hot Pass". This name was given to a narrow coastal passage in Greece, near the town of Alpeni, where a famous battle took place between the Greek city-states and the Persian Empire in 480 BC.
Similar spelling words for THERMOPYLAE
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