Definition

Proper noun 1. A specific mountain in Greece: The name of the highest mountain in Greece, located in the northeast near the Aegean Sea. 2. The home of the gods in Greek mythology: In ancient Greek religion and mythology, it was believed to be the dwelling place of the twelve Olympian gods.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • We could see the snow-capped peak of Mt. Olympus in the distance.
  • According to myth, Zeus ruled from Mt. Olympus.

Advanced Usage

• "the Olympus of [something]": Used metaphorically to describe the highest level or most prestigious group within a particular field.
  • Winning that award placed her on the Olympus of modern literature.

Variants and Related Words

• Olympian (adj): Relating to Mount Olympus or the Greek gods; also means majestic or superior.
  • She accepted the criticism with Olympian calm.
• Olympus Mons (proper noun): The name of the largest volcano in the solar system, located on Mars. The name draws a direct analogy to the mythological mountain.

Synonyms

• Olympus (The "Mt." is often omitted, especially in mythological contexts).

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "to be hurled from Olympus": To suffer a great fall from a position of power or prestige, alluding to myths where gods were cast out.
  • After the scandal, the CEO was hurled from his corporate Olympus.

Noun

1. a mountain peak in northeast Greece near the Aegean coast; believed by ancient Greeks to be the dwelling place of the gods (9,570 feet high)