atlas
/'ætləs/
Definition
- Noun:
- A collection of maps in book form: A bound volume containing maps, often including geographical, political, or thematic information.
- (Anatomy) The first cervical vertebra: The topmost vertebra of the spine, which supports the skull.
- (Architecture) A figure of a man used as a supporting column: A sculpted male figure serving as an architectural support, also called a telamon.
- (Greek Mythology) A Titan forced to bear the sky on his shoulders: In Greek mythology, Atlas was a Titan condemned by Zeus to hold up the heavens.
Examples of Usage
- Noun (Collection of Maps):
- She consulted the atlas to find the capital of Mongolia.
- The school library has a world atlas and a historical atlas.
- Noun (Anatomy):
- An injury to the atlas can be very serious.
- Noun (Architecture):
- The facade of the building was adorned with stone atlantes.
- Noun (Mythology):
- The myth of Atlas explains why he is often depicted holding a globe.
Advanced Usage
- "To be an atlas of something": To be a comprehensive source or collection of information on a specific subject.
- This book is an atlas of medieval trade routes.
- In cartography and publishing: The term is often part of compound titles specifying the atlas's focus (e.g., , ). These are considered distinct compound nouns.
Variants and Related Words
- Atlantes (n, plural): The plural form of the architectural figure.
- Atlantic (adj): Pertaining to the Atlantic Ocean, named after the Titan Atlas.
- Atlas moth (n): A very large species of moth, named for its size.
- Telamon (n): A synonym for the architectural atlas figure.
Synonyms
- Map book: For the collection of maps.
- C1 vertebra: For the anatomical term.
- Caryatid (n): A similar architectural support, but in the form of a female figure.
Related Phrases
- To carry the weight of the world on one's shoulders: An idiom derived from the myth of Atlas, meaning to bear a great burden of responsibility.
- Since the promotion, he feels like he's carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders.
Noun
-
a figure of a man used as a supporting column
-
the 1st cervical vertebra
-
a collection of maps in book form
-
(Greek mythology) a Titan who was forced by Zeus to bear the sky on his shoulders
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