Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A Greek island in the Ionian Sea: Ithaca is an island located to the west of mainland Greece. In classical literature, most famously in Homer's epic poem The Odyssey, it is known as the homeland and kingdom of the hero Odysseus.
   • A city in central New York, USA: Ithaca is also the name of a city in New York State. It is situated at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake and is known as a college town, being home to Cornell University and Ithaca College.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun (Greek island):

  • After twenty years of wandering, Odysseus finally returned to Ithaca.
  • The rugged coastline of Ithaca is a popular destination for sailors.

• Proper noun (New York city):

  • She moved to Ithaca to attend Cornell University.
  • Ithaca is famous for its gorges and vibrant downtown.

Advanced Usage

• "Ithaca of the mind": A metaphorical use referring to a long-sought-after goal or spiritual homeland, inspired by the journey in and the poem "Ithaca" by C.P. Cavafy.
  • For him, earning his doctorate was his personal Ithaca.

Variants and Related Words

• Ithacan (adj): Of or relating to the island of Ithaca in Greece.
  • The Ithacan landscape is steeped in myth.
• Ithacan (n): A native or inhabitant of the Greek island of Ithaca.
  • The Ithacans welcomed the travelers.

Synonyms

• For the Greek island: Odysseus's kingdom, Odysseus's homeland.
• For the New York city: College town, Home of Cornell.

Related Phrases

• "The return to Ithaca": Often used to signify a long-awaited homecoming or the completion of a difficult journey.
  • Finishing the manuscript felt like his return to Ithaca.

Related Idioms

• "One's Ithaca": Used to describe a person's ultimate destination or life's goal.
  • Peace and quiet became her Ithaca after years of city life.

Noun

1. a Greek island to the west of Greece; in Homeric legend Odysseus was its king
2. a college town in central New York on Lake Cayuga