Pygmalion

noun

Pyg·​ma·​lion pig-ˈmāl-yən How to pronounce Pygmalion (audio)
-ˈmā-lē-ən
: a king of Cyprus who makes a female figure of ivory that is brought to life for him by Aphrodite

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This allows the Pygmalion effect to drive consistent growth. — Mark Travers, Forbes, 1 Jan. 2025 Adding to the merriment is an accompanying music video inspired by the Greek myth of Pygmalion. — Jeff Benjamin, Forbes, 29 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from Greek Pygmaliōn

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Pygmalion was in the 14th century

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“Pygmalion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Pygmalion. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Pygmalion

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