naiad
|nai-ad|
C2
/ˈneɪ.əd/
water nymph / aquatic larva
Etymology
Etymology Information
'naiad' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'Ναϊάς' (Naiás), where the root meant 'a water nymph'.
Historical Evolution
'naiad' changed from Latin 'Naiades' and Old French 'naiade' and eventually became the modern English word 'naiad'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a water nymph' in classical mythology, but over time the term also came to be used for 'the aquatic larval stage of certain insects'.
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Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a water nymph in Greek mythology, said to inhabit fountains, springs, streams, brooks, and other bodies of fresh water.
In the painting, a naiad reclines by the riverbank.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/17 10:36