Labyrinth Meaning and Definition
Labyrinth
Pronunciation
/ˈlæb ɪnəθ/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A complex or confusing situation or environment, often characterized by many turns and passages.
Etymology
The word “labyrinth” originates from the Greek noun labyrinthos, meaning “maze” or “maze-like structure”.
Usage Notes
The word “labyrinth” can be used to describe not only physical structures but also metaphorical or abstract situations that are complex and hard to navigate.
Cultural References
The myth of the Minotaur’s labyrinth in Greek mythology and the famous episode from Homer’s Odyssey are two prominent cultural references that feature labyrinths.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
To be lost in the labyrinth means to be confused or disoriented.
Related Words or Phrases
Winding path, maze, confusion, complexity, puzzle
Collocations
Labyrinth of life, labyrinth of relationships
Frequency of Use
The word “labyrinth” is relatively uncommon in everyday language but is often used in literary or poetic contexts.
Common Misspellings
Labryrinth, Labrinth, Laybrinth, Labyrinthe