What does iliad mean?
The Iliad is an epic poem attributed to Homer, telling the story of the Trojan War and the wrath of Achilles. It is considered one of the greatest works of ancient Greek literature and has had a profound influence on Western literature. The term can also refer to a long, narrative poem or a series of events resembling those described in the epic poem. In modern usage, the term 'Iliad' can be used figuratively to describe a long, dramatic, or epic series of events. The poem's themes of honor, pride, and mortality continue to resonate with readers today.
nounAn epic poem attributed to Homer, telling the story of the Trojan War and the wrath of Achilles. The term can also refer to a long, narrative poem or a series of events resembling those described in the epic poem.
- The epic poem attributed to Homer
- A long, narrative poem or series of events
"The professor assigned Homer's Iliad as required reading for the literature course."
"The Iliad is considered one of the greatest works of ancient Greek literature."
"The company's struggles were an Iliad of mismanagement and poor decision-making."
The plural form is used to refer to multiple epic poems or series of events.
"The library's collection of Iliads includes translations from ancient Greek to modern languages."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of iliad
The word 'Iliad' comes from the Greek Ἰλιάς (Ilías), which refers to the epic poem attributed to Homer. The poem is set during the Trojan War, a ten-year conflict between the city-states of Troy and Greece. The term 'Iliad' has been used in English since the 14th century to refer to the epic poem and, by extension, to describe long, narrative poems or series of events.
How iliad is actually used
The term 'Iliad' can be used figuratively to describe a long, dramatic, or epic series of events.