arachne
|a-rac-ne|
/əˈrækni/
spider; (mythical) weaver
Etymology
'arachne' originates from Ancient Greek, specifically the word 'aráchnē', where the root meant 'spider'.
'arachne' passed into Latin and Medieval/Modern European usage (often as the proper name 'Arachne'), and from these forms entered modern English as the mythological name and as a root in scientific and literary terms.
Initially it meant 'spider' in Greek; over time it became primarily known as the proper name of the mythological weaver and as a source/root for terms relating to spiders or spider‑like qualities.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a figure in Greek mythology — a talented mortal weaver who challenged the goddess Athena and was transformed into a spider as punishment.
In the myth, Arachne challenged Athena to a weaving contest and was turned into a spider.
Noun 2
a poetic or historical term referring to a spider or used as a taxonomic name for certain spiders (historically used in scientific names).
The name 'Arachne' has been used historically in literature and taxonomy to evoke spiders or weaving.
Synonyms
Noun 3
a proper name used for works, projects, software, or characters inspired by the myth or by spiders (e.g., titles, product names).
Several artists chose 'Arachne' as the title of their works to reference the myth of the weaver.
Last updated: 2025/10/01 02:54