πέτρες
Wordform Details
Translation: stonerock
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
femininepluralaccusativeIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: πέτρα
Translation: stone; rock; boulder (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek πέτρα (pétra), meaning 'rock, stone, cliff'. The word has Indo-European roots and is related to English words like 'petrify' (to turn to stone), 'petroleum' (literally 'rock oil'), and 'petrology' (the study of rocks). The root appears in many scientific terms related to rocks and stone formations.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'petrify' in English (to turn to stone) to remember πέτρα means 'stone'.
- Petra in Jordan is an ancient city carved into rock - πέτρα is rock.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Stones and rocks are significant in Greek culture and landscape. Greece is known for its rocky terrain and many ancient structures built from stone. In Greek folklore, there are many references to stones, including the myth of Sisyphus who was condemned to roll a boulder up a hill for eternity.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While πέτρα is the feminine noun meaning 'stone/rock', πέτρος is the masculine form also meaning 'stone' but can also be a male name (Peter).
This word:
Η πέτρα είναι βαριά.
The stone is heavy.
Confused word:
Ο Πέτρος είναι φίλος μου.
Peter is my friend.
Notes: The name Peter (Πέτρος) derives from this word, as Jesus called Simon 'Peter' (rock) upon which he would build his church.
Mnemonic: πέτρα ends with 'α' (feminine) while πέτρος ends with 'ος' (masculine).
Explanation: πετάω is a verb meaning 'to throw' or 'to fly', while πέτρα is a noun meaning 'stone'.
Confused word:
Τα πουλιά πετάνε στον ουρανό.
The birds fly in the sky.
Notes: Interestingly, you might 'πετάω μια πέτρα' (throw a stone).
Mnemonic: πετάω has the action ending -άω, while πέτρα is a thing.