στρέφω
Lemma: στρέφω
Translation: to turn; to twist; to rotate; to spin (verb)
Etymology: From Proto-Indo-European *strebʰ- ('to wind, turn'). This root has given English words like 'strophe' (a turn in Greek chorus), 'catastrophe' (a down-turning), and 'apostrophe' (a turning away). The basic sense of turning or twisting has remained remarkably consistent across thousands of years.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'strafe' in video games - where you turn sideways while moving
- Remember 'catastrophe' comes from this - a downward turn of events
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Fundamental verb in Greek that forms the basis of many compound words and concepts. Its derivatives are particularly important in literature and poetry through the concept of 'strophe'.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: στρέφω means 'to turn' while τρέφω means 'to nourish/feed'
This word:
Στρέφω το τιμόνι.
I turn the steering wheel.
Confused word:
Τρέφω τα ζώα.
I feed the animals.
Notes: These verbs can look similar in some conjugated forms, but their meanings are quite distinct
Mnemonic: στρέφω has 'στ' (st) like 'steer/turn', τρέφω starts with 't' like 'treat/feed'