κήρυκας
Wordform Details
Translation: heraldmessengerannouncer
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
masculinesingularnominativeIs Dictionary Form: Yes
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: κήρυκας
Translation: herald; messenger; announcer; crier (noun)
Etymology: From ancient Greek κῆρυξ (kēryx), meaning herald or messenger. The word is related to the verb κηρύσσω (to proclaim, announce). In ancient Greece, heralds were sacred messengers who enjoyed diplomatic immunity and carried the caduceus (κηρύκειον) as their symbol of office. The English word 'kerygma' (proclamation, especially in Christian theology) derives from the same root. The -ας ending indicates masculine gender in the nominative singular.
Example Usage
Ο κήρυκας ανακοίνωσε το νέο διάταγμα του βασιλιά.
The herald announced the king's new decree.
Ήταν ο κήρυκας των νέων ιδεών στην κοινωνία.
He was the herald of new ideas in society.
Ο κήρυκας του ευαγγελίου μίλησε με πάθος.
The preacher of the gospel spoke with passion.
Θεωρείται κήρυκας της ειρήνης και της συμφιλίωσης.
He is considered a herald of peace and reconciliation.
Στην αρχαία Ελλάδα, οι κήρυκες ήταν ιερά πρόσωπα.
In ancient Greece, heralds were sacred persons.
Ο κήρυκας ανακοίνωσε την απόφαση του βασιλιά.
The herald announced the king's decision.
Στην αρχαία Ελλάδα, ο κήρυκας ήταν ιερό πρόσωπο.
In ancient Greece, the herald was a sacred person.
Mnemonics
- Think 'carry' + 'news' - a herald carries news and announcements
- Remember 'kerygma' (Christian proclamation) - both involve announcing important messages
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Used in formal contexts, historical texts, and ceremonial occasions. Often appears in references to ancient Greek culture, official proclamations, or religious contexts. Less common in everyday modern Greek conversation.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: κηρός means wax, while κήρυκας means herald - completely different meanings despite similar spelling
Confused word:
Το κερί είναι φτιαγμένο από κηρό.
The candle is made of wax.
Notes: The accent placement is different - κήρυκας (stress on first syllable) vs κηρός (stress on second syllable)
Mnemonic: κήρυκας has more syllables and relates to speaking/announcing, κηρός is short like 'wax'