αθάνατος
Lemma: αθάνατος
Translation: immortal; undying; eternal; deathless (adjective)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἀθάνατος (athanatos), from the negative prefix ἀ- (a-) 'not' + θάνατος (thanatos) 'death'. The English word 'thanatology' (the study of death) shares the same root. The concept of immortality was particularly important in Greek mythology, where the gods were referred to as 'the immortals' (οι αθάνατοι).
Example Usage
Mnemonics
- Think of 'a-thanatos' where 'a' means 'not' and 'thanatos' means 'death' (as in 'euthanasia').
- Remember the word 'thanatology' (study of death) and add the negative prefix 'a-'.
- Imagine Athena (Greek goddess) who is immortal - 'AThANAtos'.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Greek culture, the concept of immortality is deeply rooted in ancient mythology where gods were referred to as 'the immortals'. The term is also used metaphorically to describe legendary figures, works of art, or ideas that have enduring significance. In modern usage, it can refer to someone or something that has made such an impact that they will never be forgotten.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'αθάνατος' means 'immortal', 'αόρατος' means 'invisible'. Both are adjectives with the negative prefix 'α-', but they refer to different qualities.
Confused word:
Ο άνθρωπος έγινε αόρατος με το μαγικό δαχτυλίδι.
The man became invisible with the magic ring.
Notes: Both words are commonly used in mythology and fantasy contexts.
Mnemonic: 'αθάνατος' has 'θάνατος' (death) in it, while 'αόρατος' has 'όραση' (vision) in it.
Explanation: 'αθάνατος' means 'immortal', while 'αθώος' means 'innocent'. Both start with the same prefix 'α-' but have different meanings and uses.
This word:
Ο έρωτας είναι αθάνατος.
Love is immortal.
Confused word:
Το παιδί είναι αθώο.
The child is innocent.
Notes: The pronunciation is quite different: a-THÁ-na-tos vs. a-THÓ-os.
Mnemonic: 'αθάνατος' relates to death (θάνατος), while 'αθώος' relates to guilt or blame.