Hercules
/ˈhɜːr.kjʊ.liːz/noun
A mythological hero known for his strength and legendary twelve labors.
Did you know?The name Hercules is derived from the Greek 'Herakles', which means 'Glory of Hera', revealing a connection to the divine and the wrath of the goddess Hera.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*gʰer-
“to grasp, to enclose, or to be strong.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
Ἡρακλῆς (Hēraklēs)
“Glory of Hera; a hero born of divine and mortal lineage.”
Latin
Latin
Hercules
“Adopted from Greek mythology; a Roman adaptation of the Greek hero.”
1st Century BCE
Latin
Hercules
“Symbol of strength and heroism in Roman culture, often depicted in art and literature.”
Modern English
English
Hercules
“Refers to the legendary figure embodying superhuman strength and courage.”