άγκυρα
Lemma: άγκυρα
Translation: anchor; grapnel (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἄγκυρα (ánkura), which is the source of the Latin 'ancora' and ultimately English 'anchor'. The word is related to the Greek root 'ank-' meaning 'bend, curve' (seen in words like 'ankle' and 'angle'), referring to the curved shape of early anchors. This same Indo-European root appears in many European languages.
Mnemonics
- Think of the English word 'anchor' which sounds similar to 'άγκυρα'
- The 'αγκ' sound at the beginning resembles the 'ank' in 'anchor'
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Greece has a strong maritime tradition, so nautical terms like 'άγκυρα' are well-known even to those who don't work at sea. The anchor is also sometimes used as a symbol of hope and stability in Greek culture.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'άγκυρα' means 'anchor', 'αγκύλη' refers to a 'bracket' or 'parenthesis' in typography or a 'loop' or 'bend' in anatomy.
Confused word:
Βάλε το κείμενο σε αγκύλες.
Put the text in brackets.
Notes: Both words share the same etymological root related to bending or curving.
Mnemonic: 'Άγκυρα' sounds like 'anchor', while 'αγκύλη' is more related to angles and curves.