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noun

hydra

A many-headed mythical monster that regrows severed heads.

The hydra grows two new heads whenever one is severed.

Etymology

Greek hydra named a water serpent. In mythology, the name identifies the many-headed monster whose severed heads regenerate.

More examples

  • The hero raises his sword as the hydra approaches.
  • The story describes a hydra with nine snapping heads.
  • The investigation becomes a hydra: each answer raises two more questions.

Forms

hydra · hydras

Similar words

monster
Monster is broader and does not imply regenerating heads.
dragon
A dragon often breathes fire rather than regrowing severed heads.