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

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 notes

In 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.

Origin: Ancient Greek

Rhymes for Sisyphus

typhus

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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.