Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • The supreme deity in ancient Greek mythology: Zeus is the king of the gods, ruler of Mount Olympus, and god of the sky, lightning, thunder, law, order, and justice. He is the son of the Titans Cronus and Rhea, husband and brother of Hera, and father of many other deities and heroes.
   • The type genus of the family Zeidae: In biological taxonomy, Zeus is the genus name for a type of fish, specifically the dories.

Examples of Usage

• Proper noun (Mythology):
  • In the myth, Zeus hurled a thunderbolt at the giant.
  • The temple was dedicated to Zeus, the father of gods and men.
• Proper noun (Biology):
  • The John Dory is a well-known species within the genus Zeus.

Advanced Usage

• "By Zeus!": An archaic exclamation or oath invoking the god's name for emphasis.
  • "By Zeus, that is a formidable challenge!" he exclaimed.

Variants and Related Words

• Zeus's (possessive form): Belonging to Zeus.
  • Zeus's eagle was a symbol of his power.
• Olympian (adj/n): Pertaining to Mount Olympus or the gods; a god, especially one of the twelve major gods led by Zeus.
• Jupiter (proper noun): The Roman counterpart of Zeus.

Synonyms

• Jupiter (Roman equivalent)
• The Thunderer (epithet for Zeus)
• The Cloud-Gatherer (epithet for Zeus)

Related Phrases

• Eagle of Zeus: The bird sacred to and associated with Zeus.
• Aegis of Zeus: The protective shield or breastplate of Zeus, often loaned to his daughter Athena.

Noun

1. type genus of the family Zeidae
2. (Greek mythology) the supreme god of ancient Greek mythology; son of Rhea and Cronus whom he dethroned; husband and brother of Hera; brother of Poseidon and Hades; father of many gods; counterpart of Roman Jupiter