Harpy

Pronunciation: /ˈhɑːrpi/

Definitions of harpy

noun a rapacious monster described as having a woman's head and body and a bird's wings and claws

Example Sentences

A1 The harpy screeched loudly as it flew overhead.

A2 In Greek mythology, a harpy was a creature with the body of a bird and the face of a woman.

B1 The harpy was known for stealing food from unsuspecting travelers.

B2 Legends say that harpies would snatch away disobedient children in the night.

C1 The harpy's piercing gaze struck fear into the hearts of all who encountered it.

C2 The harpy's talons were razor-sharp, capable of tearing through flesh with ease.

Examples of harpy in a Sentence

formal In Greek mythology, a harpy is a winged spirit often depicted as a bird with a woman's face.

informal I heard that harpies are mythical creatures that snatch people away.

slang That girl is such a harpy, always gossiping and causing drama.

figurative The media was described as a harpy, constantly attacking and criticizing the politician.

Grammatical Forms of harpy

• past tense: harped
• plural: harpies
• comparative: more harpy
• superlative: most harpy
• present tense: harps
• future tense: will harp
• perfect tense: have harped
• continuous tense: is harping
• singular: harpy
• positive degree: harpy
• infinitive: to harp
• gerund: harping
• participle: harped

Origin and Evolution of harpy

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Greek

Story behind the word: The word 'harpy' originated from Greek mythology, specifically from the creatures known as the Harpies.

Evolution of the word: Originally depicted as winged spirits, the meaning of 'harpy' evolved over time to refer to a predatory or grasping woman, and later to describe a shrewish or malicious woman.