αλεπού
Wordform Details
Translation: fox
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
femininesingularnominativeIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: αλεπού
Translation: fox (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἀλώπηξ (alṓpēx), which comes from a pre-Greek substrate language. The word underwent a series of phonological changes over time, with the diminutive form ἀλωπεκίς (alōpekís) eventually evolving into the Modern Greek αλεπού. The ancient form is related to Latin 'vulpes' (fox), which gave rise to words like 'vulpine' in English.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'alley-poo' (αλεπού) as where a sly fox might hide in the city.
- The 'ale' in αλεπού can remind you of the reddish-brown color of both ale and a fox's fur.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Greek culture, as in many others, the fox symbolizes cunning and cleverness. It appears in many folk tales and fables, particularly in Aesop's fables which have Greek origins. The fox is often portrayed as a trickster character who uses its wits to overcome stronger opponents.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While both are wild animals often featured in fables, αλεπού means 'fox' while λαγός means 'hare'. They have different connotations in folklore - foxes are cunning, hares are swift.
Confused word:
Ο λαγός τρέχει γρήγορα.
The hare runs fast.
Notes: In Aesop's fables, the fox is typically portrayed as cunning and clever, while the hare is known for its speed but sometimes overconfidence (as in 'The Tortoise and the Hare').
Mnemonic: Think: αλεπού has the 'π' (p) for predator (fox), while λαγός has the 'γ' (g) for 'go fast' (hare).