Trojan horse Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈtroʊdʒən ˈhɔːrs/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A person or thing that appears harmless but is actually harmful or dangerous, especially one that is used to deceive or manipulate others.

Examples

• The company’s new policy seems beneficial, but it might be a Trojan horse for further budget cuts.
• The politician’s charming smile was just a Trojan horse for his true intentions.

Synonyms

• Deception
• Ruse

Antonyms

• Honesty
• Integrity

Additional Information

The term “Trojan horse” originates from the ancient Greek legend of the Trojan War, where the Greeks hid soldiers inside a giant wooden horse to infiltrate the city of Troy. In modern usage, the term is often used metaphorically to describe hidden dangers or threats.

Trojan horses can take many forms, from malware and viruses in computing to manipulative individuals in personal relationships. It’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and take precautions to avoid falling victim to these hidden threats.

In some cases, Trojan horses can be used for benevolent purposes, such as in the context of education or research. However, it’s crucial to consider the ethical implications and ensure that the ends justify the means.

Etymology

The term “Trojan horse” comes from the ancient Greek legend of the Trojan War, as described in Homer’s epic poem, the Iliad. The phrase was first used in English in the 16th century to describe the wooden horse used by the Greeks to infiltrate Troy.

Usage Notes

When using the term “Trojan horse,” be aware of the context and connotations. In some cases, it may be seen as a negative or pejorative term, implying deception or manipulation. In other cases, it may be used more neutrally to describe a hidden threat or danger.

Cultural References

The legend of the Trojan horse has inspired numerous works of art, literature, and film throughout history, including Homer’s Iliad, Shakespeare’s Troilus and Cressida, and the 2004 film Troy.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Beware of Greeks bearing gifts
• A wolf in sheep’s clothing

Related Words or Phrases

• Wolf in sheep’s clothing
• Sleeper agent
• Bait and switch

Collocations

• Trojan horse virus
• Trojan horse strategy
• Trojan horse attack

Frequency of Use

The term “Trojan horse” is commonly used in modern language, particularly in the context of computing and cybersecurity. It is estimated that the term is used in over 1 million online articles and publications.

Common Misspellings

• Trojan hors
• Trojen horse
• Trojean horse