How Do You Spell XANTIPPE?

Pronunciation: [zˈantɪp] (IPA)

Xantippe is spelled with a silent "p" at the end. The correct pronunciation is [zan-ti-pee]. This word is commonly known as the name of the wife of Socrates, who was infamous for her nagging and quarrelsome behavior. The spelling of "Xantippe" may seem unusual to some, but it is derived from the Greek name "Xanthippe", which means "yellow horse". The modern English spelling of the name contains an extra "p" that is not present in the original Greek spelling.

XANTIPPE Meaning and Definition

1. Xantippe is a noun that refers to a figure from Greek mythology and is also commonly associated with the historical figure, Socrates. In Greek mythology, Xantippe was known as the wife of Socrates, the renowned philosopher. She is often portrayed as a shrewish and argumentative woman, famous for her sharp tongue and quick temper.

   In the context of history, Xantippe has become a symbol for a nagging or difficult wife. The term is often used to describe a woman who is perceived as quarrelsome, irritable, or ill-tempered, particularly when dealing with her spouse. It has become a widely recognized term to describe an unpleasant or demanding partner in a relationship.

   While Xantippe's portrayal in popular culture might be overly simplified or exaggerated, the term "Xantippe" has endured in the English language as a way to reference a particularly challenging or high-maintenance partner. It is important to note, however, that such usage may perpetuate stereotypes and should be approached with caution, as individuals' behavior and character should not be reduced to a stereotype based on gender or marital status.

   Overall, "Xantippe" represents a historical and mythological figure associated with a particular marital dynamic, serving as a symbol for a combative or difficult spouse.

Common Misspellings for XANTIPPE

• xanthipe
• xanthippe
• Xanthippa
• zantippe
• cantippe
• dantippe
• santippe
• xzntippe
• xsntippe
• xwntippe
• xqntippe
• xabtippe
• xamtippe
• xajtippe
• xahtippe
• xanrippe
• xanfippe
• xangippe
• xanyippe
• xan6ippe

Etymology of XANTIPPE

The word "Xantippe" is derived from the ancient Greek name Ξανθίππη (Xanthíppē), which is composed of two elements: "xanthos" meaning "yellow" and "hippos" meaning "horse". The name is typically translated as "yellow horse" or "fair horse". In Greek mythology, Xantippe was known as the wife of Socrates. She is often characterized as a very argumentative and difficult woman, which is how her name became associated with sharp-tongued or nagging wives in modern usage.

Plural form of XANTIPPE is XANTIPPES