Tantalous meaning

The meaning of tantalous can be described as a frustrating and unattainable desire for something out of reach.


Tantalous definitions

Word backwards suolatnat
Part of speech adjective
Syllabic division tan-ta-lous
Plural The plural form of the word tantalous is tantali.
Total letters 9
Vogais (3) a,o,u
Consonants (4) t,n,l,s

Tantalus: A Mythical Figure from Greek Mythology

In Greek mythology, Tantalus was a figure who was punished for offending the gods. He was known for his eternal torment and suffering, making him a cautionary tale in ancient Greek culture.

The Punishment of Tantalus

Tantalus was condemned to stand in a pool of water beneath a fruit-laden tree. Whenever he reached for the fruit, the branches would lift the fruit out of his reach, and when he tried to drink the water, it would recede away. This eternal cycle of hunger and thirst became known as the "tantalizing" punishment.

The Story of Tantalus

Tantalus's story begins with him angering the gods by stealing their sacred food and revealing their secrets. As a result, he was banished to the underworld and faced with his eternal punishment.

Tantalus serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of defying the gods and the importance of humility. His story is a reminder that even the most powerful individuals are subject to divine justice.

The Legacy of Tantalus

The term "tantalizing" is still used today to describe something that is just out of reach or constantly elusive. The myth of Tantalus continues to be a powerful symbol of the consequences of greed and pride.

Overall, the story of Tantalus is a reminder of the importance of humility and respect for the gods in Greek mythology. His eternal punishment serves as a warning to those who would dare to defy divine powers.


Tantalous Examples

  1. The tantalous aroma of freshly baked bread filled the kitchen.
  2. She gazed longingly at the tempting, tantalous display of desserts in the bakery window.
  3. The tantalously vibrant colors of the sunset painted the sky.
  4. He reached out, his fingers just barely grazing the tantalous shimmer of the surface of the water.
  5. The tantalously slow pace of the suspenseful movie kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
  6. The aroma of coffee, tantalously wafting through the air, drew her into the cozy cafe.
  7. The tantalously sweet taste of the ripe strawberries lingered on her tongue.
  8. The tantalous melody of the violin filled the concert hall with emotion.
  9. She couldn't resist the tantalous temptation of the luxurious silk gown.
  10. The tantalous anticipation of the upcoming vacation kept her excited for weeks.


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  • Updated 30/03/2024 - 15:30:36