Androcles – Definition & Meaning

Androcles is a term that is often used in literature and history, but not many people know what it means. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of Androcles, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and examples of how it is used in sentences.

Definitions

Androcles is a proper noun that refers to a character in a famous fable about a slave who showed kindness to a lion and was later saved by the same lion. The term is also used to describe a person who has shown kindness or mercy to someone who is in a position of weakness or vulnerability.

Origin

The story of Androcles and the lion is believed to have originated in ancient Greece, but it has been retold in many different cultures over the centuries. The earliest known written version of the tale is by the Roman poet Aulus Gellius, who lived in the second century AD.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, Androcles is defined as “a slave in a fable who escapes from his master and is befriended by a lion.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a person who shows kindness or mercy to someone in a position of weakness or vulnerability.”

Associations

Androcles is often associated with the virtues of kindness, mercy, and compassion. The story of Androcles and the lion is often used as an example of the power of empathy and the importance of treating others with respect and dignity.

Synonyms

Some synonyms of Androcles include benevolent, compassionate, merciful, kind-hearted, and empathetic.

Antonyms

Some antonyms of Androcles include cruel, heartless, merciless, and unsympathetic.

The same root words

Androcles is derived from the Greek words “andros” meaning “man” and “kleos” meaning “fame.” The name Androcles means “man of fame.”

Example Sentences

  • The story of Androcles and the lion teaches us the importance of showing kindness to all creatures, no matter how small or weak they may seem.
  • She was hailed as an Androcles for her act of mercy towards the homeless man who was sleeping on the street.
  • The judge showed his inner Androcles when he decided to reduce the sentence of the young offender who had shown remorse for his crime.
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