How Do You Spell TARTAROUS?

Pronunciation: [tˈɑːtaɹəs] (IPA)

The word "Tartarus" is often misspelled as "Tartarous," likely due to its similarity to the word "Tartaric." The correct pronunciation of Tartarus is "TAHR-tuh-ruhs" (/ˈtɑː.tər.əs/), with the emphasis on the second syllable. The word comes from Greek mythology and refers to the deepest, darkest pit of the underworld where the most wicked souls were punished. It's important to pay attention to the spelling and pronunciation of words, especially in contexts like academic writing or professional communications.

TARTAROUS Meaning and Definition

1. Tartarous is an adjective that typically refers to something related to or resembling Tartarus, a deep and dark abyss in Greek mythology, often depicted as a place of punishment for the wicked. This term can also be used to describe something extremely difficult, torturous, or infernal in nature.

   In a literal sense, Tartarous can describe a cavern or abyss that is deep, dark, and seemingly bottomless, much like the mythical Tartarus. It signifies a place of utmost gloom, dread, and despair. This adjective is often employed to emphasize the intensity of suffering, misery, or agony that one may experience in such an environment.

   Figuratively, Tartarous can be used to describe a situation, experience, or feeling that is exceedingly oppressive, torturous, or harrowing. It represents an extreme level of difficulty, hardship, or torment. For example, a grueling physical challenge or a mentally taxing task can be described as Tartarous, indicating the intense struggle and torment involved.

   Overall, Tartarous is an adjective that evokes the imagery and connotations of Tartarus, the abyss of Greek mythology, to portray something as deeply dark, torturous, or infernal. It serves as a powerful and dramatic descriptor for situations, experiences, or conditions that are characterized by extreme suffering, difficulty, or torment.

2. Consisting of or resembling tartar.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for TARTAROUS

• tarrarous
• tartarlous

Etymology of TARTAROUS

The word "Tartarous" has its origins in Greek mythology. It is derived from the Greek word "Tartaros" (Τάρταρος) or "Tartarus" in Latin. Tartarus is the deep abyss or dungeon that served as a location for punishment or confinement in Greek mythology. It was described as a dark and gloomy place below the underworld, where the most wicked and malevolent individuals were sent by the gods to suffer eternal torment. Over time, the word "Tartarous" came to be associated with anything dark, sinister, or infernal.