Chimera
/kɪˈmɪərə/noun
A mythical creature composed of parts from various animals, often depicted as a fire-breathing monster.
Did you know?In ancient mythology, the Chimera was a symbol of chaos and a warning against hubris, said to breathe fire and wreak havoc upon cities.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
Χίμαιρα (Chimaira)
“A she-goat, used in mythology to describe a fire-breathing monster with parts from multiple animals.”
Latin
Latin
Chimera
“Transcribed from Greek, maintaining the meaning of a monstrous creature.”
Medieval Latin
Medieval Latin
Chimera
“Used in alchemical texts to denote mixtures or unnatural combinations.”
16th Century
English
Chimera
“Adopted into English to describe a mythical monster and later used metaphorically for fanciful dreams or illusions.”
Modern English
English
Chimera
“Retained its mythological roots while evolving to symbolize any fantastical or impossible idea.”