Word of the Day

: May 16, 2010

Promethean

adjective pruh-MEE-thee-un

What It Means

: of, relating to, or resembling Prometheus, his experiences, or his art; especially : daringly original or creative

Promethean in Context

The Olympics showcase Promethean performances by athletes who are always pushing the limits of human ability.

Did You Know?

As some versions of the story go in Greek mythology, Prometheus (one of the Titan giants) modeled humans from clay and then taught them agriculture and all the arts of civilization. He also stole fire from the gods and gave it to humans. So inventive was he that anything that bears the stamp of creativity and originality can still be called "Promethean." Zeus, however, had wanted the human race to perish, so Prometheus' actions were also disobedient. Hence "Promethean" can also mean defiant of authority or limits. As punishment for his disobedience, Zeus chained Prometheus to a rock where an eagle daily tore at his liver. Thus, any suffering on a grand scale can also be called Promethean -- though this sense is not as common as the others.