Sphinges
/ˈsfɪn.dʒiːz/noun
Plural of sphinx, a mythological creature with a lion’s body and a human head, or a mysterious person or thing.
Did you know?The Greek word sphinx was traditionally connected by ancient scholars to the verb sphingein, “to bind” or “to squeeze,” which is why the creature’s name became linked to deadly constriction and riddle-traps.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
σφίγξ (sphínx), gen. σφιγγός (sphingós)
“A mythical monster with a woman’s head and a lion’s body, famed for deadly riddles.”
Classical Greek
Greek
σφίγγειν (sphíngein)
“To squeeze, bind tight, or constrict.”
Latin
Latin
sphinx / sphinges
“The Sphinx; borrowed from Greek into learned Latin.”
Middle English
English
sphynx / sphinge
“A sphinx, especially in classical or biblical contexts.”
Modern English
English
sphinx / sphinges
“The singular and plural forms referring to the creature or a mysterious, enigmatic person.”