Definition

Proper noun 1. A tragic king in Greek mythology: The central figure of the Theban myths, who unknowingly fulfills a prophecy by killing his father, Laius, and marrying his mother, Jocasta. His story is the subject of Sophocles' tragic plays, most famously Oedipus Rex.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The story of King Oedipus explores themes of fate, free will, and self-discovery.
  • In the play, King Oedipus seeks the murderer of the previous king, only to discover it was himself.

Advanced Usage

• "Oedipus complex": In Freudian psychoanalytic theory, a term derived from the myth, describing a child's feelings of desire for the opposite-sex parent and rivalry with the same-sex parent.
  • The psychologist discussed the concept of the Oedipus complex during the lecture.

Variants and Related Words

• Oedipus Rex (proper noun): The Latin title, meaning "Oedipus the King," specifically referring to Sophocles' play.
  • We are studying Oedipus Rex in my literature class.
• Oedipal (adjective): Pertaining to the myth of Oedipus or the Oedipus complex.
  • The film has strong Oedipal themes.

Synonyms

• Theban king: A descriptive synonym referencing his rule over Thebes.
• Son of Laius and Jocasta: A synonym identifying him by his parentage.

Related Phrases

• Oedipus at Colonus: Refers to another play by Sophocles about the later years and death of Oedipus.
  • His final acts are chronicled in Oedipus at Colonus.
• Swollen-footed: A literal translation of the name "Oedipus," alluding to the injury from his infancy when his ankles were pinned.
  • The name Oedipus itself means "swollen foot."

Noun

1. (Greek mythology) a tragic king of Thebes who unknowingly killed his father Laius and married his mother Jocasta; the subject of the drama `Oedipus Rex' by Sophocles