Do you know where the word "tantalize" comes from?
Tantalus, son of Zeus, is a figure from Greek mythology who was the rich but wicked king of Sipylus. For attempting to serve his own son at a feast with the gods, he was punished by Zeus to forever go thirsty and hungry in Hades.
He was made to stand in a pool of water beneath a fruit tree with low branches, with the fruit ever eluding his grasp, and the water always receding before he could take a drink.
Tantalizing.
10
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It's surprising how many of our words originated from Greek mythology. Another example is narcissist.
rogueflyer
Level 8
Feb 17, 2020
2
As a non-native English speaker, that was something new to learn. Thanks!!!
Paddypereira
Level 7
Feb 17, 2020
2
Like much Greek mythology it’s a cautionary tale from the oral tradition.
There is also the version of Tantalus stealing Hephaestus’ golden dog or fencing it for his mate or somesuch.
Go to Iliad and Odyssey for real Greek story telling or Aesop for the cautionary tale
Geoffrey51
Level 8
Feb 17, 2020
2
Yes...I knew that. Posted it in Uncommon Words group some months ago.
Marionville
Level 10
Feb 17, 2020
3
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