sampson

Definition
  1. Noun (proper noun):
    • Biblical figure: "Sampson" (often spelled "Samson") refers to a legendary Israelite judge in the Old Testament known for his extraordinary physical strength, which was derived from his uncut hair. He is a symbol of superhuman power and tragic downfall.
    • Figurative use: A "Sampson" can denote any person of exceptional physical strength or heroic might, often used in a metaphorical or literary context.
Usage Examples

  • Biblical reference:

    • The story of Sampson and Delilah is one of the most famous tales of betrayal in the Bible. (Refers to the narrative where Sampson loses his strength after his hair is cut.)

  • Figurative use:

    • In the wrestling match, he was a veritable Sampson, overpowering every opponent with ease. (He was compared to the biblical figure for his immense strength.)
Advanced Usage

  • "a Sampson among men": an idiom meaning a person of extraordinary strength or power.

    • The blacksmith was a Sampson among men, able to lift anvils single-handedly. (He was exceptionally strong.)

  • "Sampson's strength": a phrase referring to the idea that power can be lost through vulnerability or betrayal.

    • The CEO's downfall was like Sampson's strength — his own trust in a dishonest partner led to his ruin. (The loss of power was due to personal weakness.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Samson (alternative spelling): the more common modern spelling of the name.

    • The statue of Samson in the museum depicts him with long hair and a lion's jawbone. (The biblical figure with uncut hair.)

  • Samsonian (adj): relating to or characteristic of Samson; extremely strong.

    • His Samsonian grip crushed the walnut shell. (His grip was incredibly powerful.)
Synonyms
  • Hercules: a figure from Greek mythology known for immense strength.
  • Goliath: a biblical giant, often used to symbolize great size or power.
  • Titan: a member of the primordial gods in Greek mythology, often used for something of colossal strength.
Related Idioms

  • "Samson and Delilah": a phrase referring to a relationship where one person is betrayed by a loved one, leading to a loss of power.

    • Their partnership ended like Samson and Delilah — she revealed his secrets to his rivals. (The betrayal caused his downfall.)

  • "Samson's jawbone": a reference to the biblical story where Samson uses a donkey's jawbone to kill a thousand Philistines, symbolizing a weapon of unlikely origin.

    • He used a simple stick as a Samson's jawbone, defeating the entire gang. (He used an ordinary object to achieve a great victory.)