Thermopylae
Definition
Proper noun A narrow coastal pass in eastern Greece, historically famous as the site of a significant ancient battle. In 480 BC, during the Greco-Persian Wars, a small Greek force led by King Leonidas I of Sparta made a heroic last stand here against a vastly larger invading Persian army.
Usage
- Thermopylae is primarily used as a proper noun to refer to the historical site and the battle that occurred there. It is often cited as a classic example of courageous resistance against overwhelming odds.
- Example: The story of Thermopylae has inspired countless works of literature and film about bravery and sacrifice.
Advanced Usage
- Metaphorical Use: "Thermopylae" can be used metaphorically to describe any situation where a group makes a determined, against-all-odds stand for a principle or cause.
- Example: The small community's fight against the large corporation was their Thermopylae.
Variants and Related Words
- Thermopylaean (adjective): Pertaining to Thermopylae or the battle.
- Example: The Thermopylaean spirit of the defenders is legendary.
Synonyms
- Last stand
- Heroic defense
Related Idioms and Phrases
- A modern Thermopylae: Used to describe a contemporary event that resembles the desperate heroism of the ancient battle.
- Example: The soldiers' defense of the outpost was described by journalists as a modern Thermopylae.
Noun
-
a famous battle in 480 BC; a Greek army under Leonidas was annihilated by the Persians who were trying to conquer Greece
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