tarzan
Definition
- Proper noun:
- A fictional character: Tarzan is a man raised by apes in the African jungle, who is the hero of a series of adventure novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs.
- An archetype of physical prowess: By extension, the name is used to refer to a man who possesses exceptional physical strength, agility, and survival skills, reminiscent of the fictional character.
Usage Examples
Proper noun:
- The children were fascinated by the story of Tarzan swinging through the jungle.
- Edgar Rice Burroughs created the character of Tarzan in 1912.
Used as a common noun (figuratively):
- After watching him climb that cliff, we started calling him Tarzan.
- He's no Tarzan; he can barely lift a suitcase.
Advanced Usage
- Used ironically or humorously: The term can be employed to gently mock someone who is attempting to display great strength or agility but fails, or to describe someone in an exaggerated way.
- He tried to be a real Tarzan and fix the roof himself, but he just made it worse.
- Our office Tarzan is the one who changes the water cooler bottle.
Variants and Related Words
- Tarzan-like (adjective): Having the qualities of Tarzan, such as great strength, agility, or a primitive, rugged appearance.
- He has a Tarzan-like physique from years of rock climbing.
Synonyms
- Ape man: A term describing a human-like creature living among or like apes.
- Strongman: A man of great physical strength (though this lacks the specific jungle/wilderness connotation).
Related Phrases
- "Tarzan yell" or "Tarzan's yell": Refers to the distinctive, ululating victory cry associated with the character in films and popular culture.
- He let out a Tarzan yell after winning the race.
Notes on Meaning
- The primary meaning is the specific literary and cinematic character.
- The secondary, figurative meaning is entirely dependent on the cultural knowledge of this character. It is used to imply a combination of primal strength, natural athleticism, and comfort in wild, untamed environments. This usage is often informal and can be either complimentary or ironic.
Noun
-
a man raised by apes who was the hero of a series of novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs
-
(sometimes used ironically) a man of great strength and agility (after the hero of a series of novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs)
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