name
Sisyphus
SIH-sih-fuhs
Sisyphus (name) means In Greek mythology, a cunning king punished in the underworld by having to push a boulder up a hill forever, only for it to roll back down each time.
name
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In Greek mythology, a cunning king punished in the underworld by having to push a boulder up a hill forever, only for it to roll back down each time.
How to use Sisyphus
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe origin of the word 'sisyphean' — used for a task that never ends no matter how much effort you put in.
Common pairings
a Sisyphean task
the myth of Sisyphus
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Etymology
From Ancient Greek Sisyphos, the name of the mythical king.
Rhymes for Sisyphus
See all rhymes for Sisyphus →Frequently asked questions
What does “Sisyphus” mean?
The word “Sisyphus” means in Greek mythology, a cunning king punished in the underworld by having to push a boulder up a hill forever, only for it to roll back down each time. In plain terms, the origin of the word 'sisyphean' — used for a task that never ends no matter how much effort you put in.
How do you pronounce “Sisyphus”?
“Sisyphus” is pronounced SIH-sih-fuhs (/ˈsɪsɪfəs/ in IPA).
What part of speech is “Sisyphus”?
“Sisyphus” is a name.
Where does the word “Sisyphus” come from?
The word “Sisyphus” comes from Ancient Greek. From Ancient Greek Sisyphos, the name of the mythical king.
