Calliope
/kəˈlaɪ.ə.pi/noun
The Greek muse of epic poetry; also a musical instrument with loud steam-powered whistles.
Did you know?In Greek myth, Calliope was the Muse of epic song, and her name comes from roots meaning “beautiful voice,” a reminder that ancient words for inspiration were often treated like real powers.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
Kalliope (Καλλιόπη)
“The Muse of epic poetry, literally “beautiful-voiced.””
Late Latin
Latin
Calliopē
“A borrowed proper name from Greek myth.”
Middle French
French
Calliope
“Used as a learned classical name in literary contexts.”
19th Century
English
Calliope
“The name was applied to a steam-powered musical instrument, likely for its loud, piercing sound.”
Modern English
English
calliope
“A steam organ or the Greek Muse of epic poetry.”
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