Απόλλωνας

Translation: Apollo (noun)

Etymology: From Ancient Greek Ἀπόλλων (Apóllōn), the name of the Greek god of music, prophecy, healing, and archery. The etymology of the name itself is debated, with theories connecting it to the Greek verb ἀπόλλυμι (apóllymi) meaning 'to destroy', or to pre-Greek origins. The modern Greek form Απόλλωνας adds the masculine nominative ending -ας to the ancient stem.

Mnemonics

  • Think of 'Apollo' in English, which is nearly identical to the Greek pronunciation.
  • Associate with Apollo space missions to remember the spelling and pronunciation.

Related Words, Phrases & Idioms

απολλώνιος

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Απολλώνιο

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Δάφνη

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Synonyms

Φοίβος

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Cultural Context

Apollo is one of the most important deities in Greek mythology and remains culturally significant in modern Greece. Many cultural institutions, sports clubs, and businesses bear his name. The Temple of Apollo at Delphi was one of the most important religious sites in ancient Greece and remains a major archaeological site and tourist destination today.

Easily Confused With

Απόλλων

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Commonality: 0%

Explanation: Απόλλων is the Ancient Greek form, while Απόλλωνας is the Modern Greek form. Both refer to the same deity, but Απόλλων is used in more formal or academic contexts, or when referring specifically to the ancient god in historical contexts.

Notes: Many sports clubs and organizations in Greece use the ancient form 'Απόλλων' in their names.

Mnemonic: Απόλλωνας (with -ας) is for modern, everyday use; Απόλλων (without -ας) is for ancient contexts.