Definition

Proper noun 1. A historical figure: A Carthaginian general who led his army, including war elephants, across the Alps to attack Rome during the Second Punic War (218–201 BC). He is renowned as a brilliant military strategist. 2. A place name: A city in the U.S. state of Missouri, located on the Mississippi River. It is famous as the boyhood home of author Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens).

Examples of Usage

• Referring to the historical figure:
  • Hannibal is studied in military academies for his tactical genius.
  • The most famous story about Hannibal is his crossing of the Alps with elephants.
• Referring to the city:
  • We visited Hannibal, Missouri, to see the cave that inspired Mark Twain's novels.
  • Hannibal is a popular tourist destination for fans of American literature.

Advanced Usage

• "Hannibal's oath": Refers to the legendary promise Hannibal made to his father, Hamilcar Barca, to forever be an enemy of Rome. It symbolizes a lifelong, unwavering commitment to a cause.
  • He took a sort of Hannibal's oath to fight against injustice.
• Used metaphorically: The name can be used to describe a person who is a formidable and cunning opponent.
  • In the business world, she was known as the Hannibal of her industry.

Variants and Related Words

• Hannibalic (adjective): Pertaining to Hannibal.
  • The historian discussed Hannibalic warfare tactics.

Synonyms

• For the general: The Scourge of Rome, The Carthaginian General.
• For the city: Twain's Boyhood Home, The Mississippi River town.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "Hannibal at the gates" ( in Latin): An expression of alarm meaning a fearsome enemy is very close. It originates from the Roman fear during Hannibal's campaign in Italy.
  • When the rival company launched its new product, the CEO acted as if Hannibal was at the gates.
• "Hannibal's elephant": Often used to signify an immense and surprising challenge or an unconventional solution.
  • Moving the entire office was our Hannibal's elephant—a huge task no one thought we could manage.

Noun

1. a town in northeast Missouri on the Mississippi River; boyhood home of Mark Twain
2. general who commanded the Carthaginian army in the second Punic War; crossed the Alps and defeated the Romans but was recalled to defend Carthage and was defeated (247-182 BC)