What does iliad mean?
The Iliad is an ancient Greek epic poem traditionally attributed to Homer and composed in the late eighth or early seventh century BCE. Its central subject is the anger of Achilles and the destructive effect it has on the Greek forces during the Trojan War. The narrative is divided into twenty-four books and includes famous encounters and speeches involving Achilles, Hector, Priam, Thetis, and other figures associated with the conflict. Rather than presenting a complete history of the war, the poem concentrates on a period of crisis within it. Its elevated language, recurring formulas, and vivid portrayals of divine and human emotion have made it foundational in Western education and literature. The poem is also central to the study of oral tradition, classical Greek culture, heroism, honour, fate, and the devastating consequences of personal rage. Together with the Odyssey, it forms the principal body of verse attributed to Homer.
nounAn ancient Greek epic poem attributed to Homer, recounting the wrath of the hero Achilles during the final phase of the Trojan War. The poem is traditionally divided into twenty-four books.
- The ancient Greek epic poem attributed to Homer, concerning Achilles and the events of the Trojan War.
"The Iliad has been translated into languages around the world and remains central to the study of classical literature."
"Her first encounter with the Iliad transformed her interest in ancient Greek history."
"The episode in Book Six is among the most celebrated passages in the Iliad."
An uncommon plural used when referring to multiple works, versions, or examples described as Iliads; the title normally remains unchanged in discussions of the single ancient Greek poem.
"The exhibition presented Iliads from several different cultures."
The Iliad turns the Trojan War into a story of one furious hero: when Achilles is slighted, the Greek campaign teeters on the edge of collapse.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does iliad come from?
The word comes through Latin from ancient Greek Ἰλιάς (Ilías), meaning “poem of Ilios,” with Ilios being the Greek name for Troy. The title identifies the poem with the city and legendary history associated with the Trojan War. Related forms include the Latin Ilium and the adjective Iliac, while the name Ilios preserves the Greek place-name more directly.
Related word forms
How iliad is actually used
The title is normally capitalized and italicized. It is commonly identified as Homer's Iliad, and discussions of its characters, episodes, and literary influence usually treat it as a work of ancient Greek literature.
Easily confused with iliad
Ilium is the Latin name for the ancient city of Troy, while the Iliad is the epic poem associated with Troy and the Trojan War.