harpy
|har/py|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˈhɑːr.pi/
🇬🇧
/ˈhɑː.pi/
predatory creature
Etymology
Etymology Information
'harpy' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'harpuia,' where 'harpazein' meant 'to snatch.'
Historical Evolution
'harpuia' transformed into the Latin word 'harpyia,' and eventually became the modern English word 'harpy' through Old French.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a snatching creature,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a predatory woman.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a mythical creature in Greek mythology, depicted as a bird with a human face, known for stealing food.
In the myth, the harpies would swoop down and snatch food from the table.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/04/25 09:19