dracula
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun 1. A fictional vampire: The primary antagonist in Bram Stoker's 1897 Gothic horror novel of the same name, a Transylvanian nobleman who is an undead creature that feeds on the blood of the living. 2. A genus of orchids: A genus of tropical American epiphytic orchids, often characterized by their unusual and sometimes dramatic-looking flowers, which may have long, hanging stems (scapes) and a lip (labellum) that can move.
Usage Examples
- Noun (Fictional Character):
- Bram Stoker's Dracula is one of the most famous characters in horror literature.
- The actor gave a chilling performance as Dracula in the film.
- Noun (Orchid Genus):
- The Dracula orchid in the greenhouse has finally bloomed.
- Many species of Dracula are known for their strange, almost otherworldly flowers.
Advanced Usage
- As a cultural archetype: The name "Dracula" is often used to refer to the archetype of the sophisticated, aristocratic vampire.
- The character established the modern template for the vampire, making "Dracula" synonymous with the creature itself.
Variants and Related Words
- Draconian (adj): Though etymologically related to "dragon" (from Greek ), this word meaning "excessively harsh and severe" is sometimes associated in popular culture with the ruthless nature of the fictional Dracula. (Note: This is a distinct word with a different origin).
- Vampire (n): The general term for a mythical being that drinks blood, of which Dracula is a specific famous example.
Synonyms
- For the character: The Count, The Vampire King, Nosferatu (from an early film adaptation).
- For the orchid genus: (No common synonyms; it is a scientific genus name).
Related Phrases and Idioms
- "Like Dracula": Used to describe someone who avoids something (like sunlight) or appears pale and nocturnal.
- He stays up all night and sleeps all day, like Dracula.
- "A real Dracula": Metaphorically describes a person or entity perceived as draining resources or vitality.
- That loan company is a real Dracula, sucking people dry with its interest rates.
Noun
- fictional vampire in a gothic horror novel by Bram Stoker
- comprises tropical American species usually placed in genus Masdevallia: diminutive plants having bizarre and often sinister-looking flowers with pendulous scapes and motile lips