μέλος
Lemma: μέλος
Translation: member; limb; body part; component; element (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek μέλος (melos) meaning 'limb, member, part of the body'. This word is cognate with English 'melody' through the related Ancient Greek μέλος meaning 'song, tune' (the same word with extended meaning). The connection lies in the concept of 'parts' - body parts and musical parts/phrases. Also related to Latin 'membrum' (member, limb), giving English 'member'. The dual meaning of physical limb and group membership reflects the metaphorical extension from body parts to parts of organizations.
Mnemonics
- Think 'melody' - both come from the same Greek root meaning 'part' or 'member'
- Remember 'member' - μέλος sounds like 'melos' and means member
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Commonly used in formal contexts when referring to organizational membership (political parties, clubs, committees). In medical contexts, refers to limbs. The word carries respect when used for group membership.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: μέλι means 'honey' while μέλος means 'member/limb' - they differ by one letter and stress
Confused word:
Το μέλι είναι γλυκό.
Honey is sweet.
Notes: Both are common words, so context is crucial for disambiguation
Mnemonic: μέλος has 'os' ending like 'member' in organizations, μέλι is sweet like honey