name
Autolycus
Autolycus (name) means In Greek mythology, a cunning thief and son of Hermes, said to be able to change shape and disguise stolen goods. Example: “Shakespeare based his roguish pedlar character in "The Winter's Tale" on Autolycus.”
name
1
In Greek mythology, a cunning thief and son of Hermes, said to be able to change shape and disguise stolen goods.
"Shakespeare based his roguish pedlar character in "The Winter's Tale" on Autolycus."
noun
1
(literary) A skilled thief or someone who steals others' ideas.
"Critics called the plagiarising writer a modern-day Autolycus."
How to use Autolycus
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA mythological master thief, now used loosely for a cunning con artist or plagiarist.
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Word forms
- Plural
- Autolycuses, Autolyci
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Shakespeare based his roguish pedlar character in "The Winter's Tale" on _____.
Etymology
From Greek Autólukos, a figure in Greek mythology known for trickery and theft.
Frequently asked questions
What does “Autolycus” mean?
The word “Autolycus” means in Greek mythology, a cunning thief and son of Hermes, said to be able to change shape and disguise stolen goods. In plain terms, a mythological master thief, now used loosely for a cunning con artist or plagiarist.
How do you use “Autolycus” in a sentence?
Here is “Autolycus” used in a sentence: “Shakespeare based his roguish pedlar character in "The Winter's Tale" on Autolycus.”
What part of speech is “Autolycus”?
Depending on how it is used, “Autolycus” can be a name and a noun.
Where does the word “Autolycus” come from?
The word “Autolycus” comes from Greek. From Greek Autólukos, a figure in Greek mythology known for trickery and theft.
How many meanings does “Autolycus” have?
“Autolycus” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: in Greek mythology, a cunning thief and son of Hermes, said to be able to change shape and disguise stolen goods.
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