Adonis

  Adonis: Definition

Adonis is a figure from Greek mythology symbolizing youthful beauty and desire. He was a mortal man so attractive that both Aphrodite, the goddess of love, and Persephone, queen of the underworld, competed for his affection. Over time, “Adonis” has come to describe any man who is exceptionally handsome.

Myth and Symbolism

• Mythic role: Adonis embodies desire, passion, and the fleeting nature of life.

• Cultural use: The name is often applied to men admired for their physical appearance.

• Enduring image: He remains a symbol of ideal male beauty in literature, art, and everyday speech.

Relevance Today

Calling someone an “Adonis” is a compliment to their looks, but it also carries echoes of the myth, where beauty and mortality are deeply intertwined.

  FAQ

1. What is Adonis known for?
Adonis is known in mythology as the symbol of male beauty, loved by Aphrodite and Persephone.

2. Who is the Adonis guy?
The phrase usually refers to a man with strikingly good looks, modeled after the mythological Adonis.

3. Why is it called Adonis?
The name comes directly from the mythological character, whose legendary beauty made him a lasting symbol of attractiveness.

4. What does adonai mean?
Adonai is a Hebrew word meaning “Lord,” used as a reverent title for God, and is unrelated to Adonis.

5. What creature killed Adonis?
According to myth, Adonis was killed by a wild boar during a hunt, a story symbolizing the fragility of life.

6. Does Adonis mean love?
Not exactly. Adonis represents beauty and desire, while love itself was personified by Aphrodite, the goddess who adored him.