Chapter 1
Secrets hidden in our food
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Chapter 2
Words born from ancient myths
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Chapter 3
Words created by accident
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Chapter 4
Global travelers in English
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YOUR GOAL
Master of The secret life of words
Ch 2 · Words born from ancient myths
schopenhauer Word Origins from Myth
Ariadne's red thread, mapping the maze, now it's a clue!
schopenhauer The word 'mentor' was originally a specific character in Homer's epic poem who guided a young prince.
Fun Fact
Echo's myth: The word echo comes from a Greek nymph cursed by Hera to only repeat the last words spoken to her.
schopenhauer The word 'cereal' honors Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture, grain crops, and motherly love.
Glossary
tantalize (verb)
To torment or tease someone with the sight or promise of something that is unobtainable. The word originates from King Tantalus, whom Zeus punished with eternally receding food and water.
To torment or tease someone with the sight or promise of something that is unobtainable. The word originates from King Tantalus, whom Zeus punished with eternally receding food and water.
schopenhauer Match modern words to ancient myths to discover the surprising origins of everyday vocabulary.
Quiz
Which mythological king was punished with eternal hunger and thirst, inspiring the word 'tantalize'?
Quiz
The word 'clue' originally referred to what physical object used in the myth of the Minotaur?
Quiz
Which word for a long, adventurous journey comes from the name of a Greek hero who spent ten years traveling home?