ελέφαντες
Wordform Details
Translation: elephant
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
masculinepluralaccusativeIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: ελέφαντας
Translation: elephant (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἐλέφας (eléphas), possibly from Egyptian 'ꜣbw' via Phoenician. Related to English 'elephant'
Mnemonics
- Similar to English 'elephant' with -ας ending typical of masculine nouns
- Think of the word 'elephantine' in English
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Often used in Greek mythology and folklore. The phrase 'κάνω την μύγα ελέφαντα' (to make an elephant out of a fly) is a common idiom meaning to exaggerate.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: Similar spelling but means 'little deer'
Notes: The stress patterns are different: ελέφαντας vs ελαφάκι
Mnemonic: ελέφαντας has 'φ' (phi) in the middle like 'elephant', while ελαφάκι is related to 'έλαφος' (deer)