Centaur

/'sentɔ:/
Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A mythical creature from classical mythology: A being with the upper body, head, and arms of a human and the lower body and legs of a horse.
    • A constellation in the southern hemisphere: A prominent constellation named after the mythical creature, located near the Southern Cross.
Examples
  • Noun:
    • In Greek mythology, Chiron was a wise and kind centaur who tutored heroes.
    • The constellation Centaurus contains the bright stars Alpha and Beta Centauri.
Advanced Usage
  • Figurative use: Can be used metaphorically to describe something that is a hybrid or combination of two distinct elements.
    • The novel is a literary centaur, blending historical fact with pure fantasy.
  • In astronomy: Refers specifically to the constellation Centaurus.
    • Centaur is one of the largest constellations in the sky.
Variants and Related Words
  • Centauress (n, rare): A female centaur. (Note: This is a very uncommon term.)
  • Centauromachy (n): In classical art and mythology, a battle between centaurs and humans (e.g., Lapiths).
  • Centauric (adj): Pertaining to or resembling a centaur.
Synonyms
  • Hybrid creature (general term).
  • Mythological hybrid (specific to myths).
Related Phrases and Idioms
  • Like a centaur: Used to describe someone, especially a rider, who seems unified with their horse, displaying great skill.
    • The cavalry officer rode like a centaur, perfectly in sync with his mount.
Noun
  1. a conspicuous constellation in the southern hemisphere near the Southern Cross
  2. (classical mythology) a mythical being that is half man and half horse