Sphinge
/ˈsfɪndʒ/noun
An obsolete or variant English form of sphinx, especially a mythical creature with a human head and a lion’s body.
Did you know?The Greek name is traditionally connected with sphíngein, “to squeeze or strangle,” reflecting the myth that the Sphinx killed those who could not answer its riddle.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European, possibly
PIE
*spheng-
“A proposed root associated with binding or squeezing; the deeper origin is uncertain.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
Σφίγξ (Sphinx)
“The Sphinx, the strangling monster of myth; associated with sphíngein, “to squeeze or strangle.””
Ancient Greek
Greek
σφίγγειν (sphíngein)
“To squeeze, bind, or strangle.”
Ancient Latin
Latin
sphinx
“The Egyptian or Greek Sphinx; a monster represented with a human head and leonine body.”
Middle English
English
sphinge
“A variant or obsolete form referring to a Sphinx.”
Modern English
English
sphinx
“A mythological creature or a monumental Egyptian figure; figuratively, an enigmatic person or thing.”