odyssey

IPA

Dictionary definition of odyssey

A long journey or voyage, typically one that is filled with adventure, challenges, and obstacles.
"The explorer's odyssey to discover new lands led him to uncharted territories."

Detailed meaning of odyssey

The term is most commonly associated with the epic poem written by Homer in ancient Greece, called the "Odyssey." The poem tells the story of Odysseus, a Greek hero, and his ten-year journey home after the fall of Troy. Along the way, Odysseus faces many challenges and obstacles such as sea monsters, wrathful gods, and the allure of the sorceress Circe. The Odyssey is considered one of the foundational works of Western literature and is known for its themes of hospitality, cunning, piety, and the power of the gods. The word "odyssey" is often used to describe any long and eventful journey, whether it be a physical journey or a metaphorical one. It implies a sense of adventure, of facing challenges and overcoming obstacles, and of growing and learning through the experiences of the journey.

Example sentences of odyssey

1. The explorer's odyssey took him to the farthest reaches of the Earth.
2. Her career was an odyssey filled with ups and downs.
3. The novel's protagonist embarked on an epic odyssey.
4. Their road trip became an unforgettable odyssey.
5. The immigrant's odyssey was a quest for a better life.
6. The scientist's odyssey led to groundbreaking discoveries.

History and etymology of odyssey

The noun 'odyssey' is deeply rooted in ancient Greek literature, specifically in Homer's epic poems, 'The Iliad' and 'The Odyssey.' The term 'Odyssey' refers to the epic journey and adventures of the hero Odysseus as he attempts to return home after the Trojan War. The word itself comes from the Greek name 'Odysseia,' which is a reference to the protagonist, Odysseus. This epic tale, with its numerous trials, tribulations, and adventures, has become synonymous with long, challenging journeys. Consequently, 'odyssey' has evolved in English to signify any extensive and adventurous journey, often one filled with obstacles and trials, reflecting its illustrious origins in ancient Greek literature.

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Further usage examples of odyssey

1. The space odyssey captured the imagination of millions.
2. The entrepreneur's odyssey to success was marked by determination.
3. The rescue mission turned into a perilous odyssey.
4. The artist's creative odyssey resulted in a masterpiece.
5. The athlete's odyssey from obscurity to stardom inspired many.
6. The soldier's odyssey through war-torn lands tested his courage.
7. The student's academic odyssey was a pursuit of knowledge.
8. The musician's musical odyssey spanned multiple genres.
9. The spiritual odyssey brought inner peace and enlightenment.
10. The conservationist's odyssey aimed to protect endangered species.
11. The chef's culinary odyssey explored global flavors.
12. The odyssey of self-discovery led to personal growth.
13. The historical odyssey uncovered forgotten treasures.
14. The family's road trip was an odyssey of bonding and adventure.
15. His journey was an odyssey that took him through many challenges and obstacles.
16. The astronaut's odyssey to the moon was a historic moment for mankind.
17. The film is a modern retelling of the classic Greek odyssey.
18. The musician's career has been a musical odyssey spanning many decades.
19. The writer's odyssey to become a published author was a long and difficult one.
20. The artist's work reflects his personal odyssey of self-discovery and expression.
21. The athlete's odyssey to become a world champion was a long and arduous one.
22. The game is a virtual odyssey through a fantastical world of magic and adventure.
23. The scientist's odyssey to develop a cure for a disease has spanned many years.
24. The startup's odyssey to become a successful company was filled with challenges and setbacks.
25. The character's odyssey through life led him to many different places and experiences.