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.”
How to Use Autolycus
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA mythological master thief, now used loosely for a cunning con artist or plagiarist.
Word Forms
Autolycuses plural, Autolyci plural
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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