noun
myth
MITH/mɪθ/
A traditional cultural story explaining origins or beliefs.
The illustrated myth shows Zeus casting lightning from a cloud.
Etymology
Greek mythos covered speech and stories delivered by word of mouth. In this sense, the broad idea of a tale narrows to a traditional narrative explaining beliefs, origins, or natural events.
In context
I don't use myth to mean uh a false story, but a sacred and ancient story
More examples
- In Greek myth, Demeter's grief explains the changing seasons.
- The elders pass down a creation myth to each generation.
- Many cultures have myths about a great flood.
Forms
myth · myths
mythology noun — A collection of a culture's traditional stories.
mythical adjective — Relating to or appearing in traditional stories.
Similar words
- legend
- Usually centers on people or events presented as historical.
- folktale
- Often emphasizes entertainment or moral lessons rather than sacred origins.