chthonic

/ˈθɑː.nɪk/
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Connected with the underworld of ancient myth.

Examples

  • The myth describes a chthonic journey.
  • Snakes were linked to chthonic powers.
  • The novel evokes a dark, chthonic world.
  • They offered food to chthonic spirits.
  • The temple honored a chthonic goddess.

Similar words

underworldly
subterranean

Meanings

Of the mythic underworld

adjective
mythology
formal
Relating to the realm beneath the earth where the dead dwell in ancient stories, or to its gods and spirits.

Examples

  • The temple honored a chthonic goddess.
  • Snakes were linked to chthonic powers.
  • The myth describes a chthonic journey.
  • They offered food to chthonic spirits.
  • The novel evokes a dark, chthonic world.

Similar words

Etymology

From Greek khthōn, meaning earth or ground.

FAQ

What does chthonic mean?

Chthonic means connected with the mythic underworld.

When is chthonic used?

It often describes ancient gods, spirits, and rituals.

How does chthonic differ from underground?

Underground can mean physically below ground; chthonic invokes the realm of the dead in myth.

How is chthonic used in a sentence?

The temple honored a chthonic goddess.

Is chthonic formal?

It is a formal term used in mythology and literature.

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