chimera
Other forms: chimeras
A chimera is something you’ve imagined that’s bits and pieces of other things mashed together into a new horrible fantasy, something impossible in real life that only exists in your mind.
In Greek mythology, a chimera is a monster that has a lion’s head, a goat’s body, and a serpent’s tail. And it breathes fire. No creature like that has ever existed, but the idea seemed real and terrifying to Greeks, and that’s another meaning: an idea that feels real but is impossible, like the idea of a world without evil. Pronouncing the word is very possible though; just try it one of two ways: either kye-MEER-uh or kih-MEER-uh. Both work.
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a grotesque product of the imagination
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synonyms:
chimaera
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type of:
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imagery, imagination, imaging, mental imagery
the ability to form mental images of things or events
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imagery, imagination, imaging, mental imagery
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a mythical creature formed from the parts of other animals
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Vocabulary lists containing chimera
In this story of cruelty and madness, a man's devotion to animals curdles into a violent rage he cannot explain or contain. Read the full text here. Click here to explore other works by Edgar Allan Poe.
Percy Jackson's normal life is turned upside down when gods from Greek mythology accuse him of stealing a supernatural weapon. Percy must find the real thief — and figure out his connection to the gods.
If learning about the ancient world feels like a herculean task, review these terms related to Greek and Roman mythology. This epic list will take you on an odyssey through the classical world, where you'll encounter gods and goddesses, all-knowing oracles, and legendary creatures like the centaur.