VocabDictionary

labyrinth

/ˈlæb.ə.rɪnθ/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A complicated irregular network of passages or paths in which it is difficult to find one's way; a maze.

Example Sentences:
  • The old city is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets that confuse even the locals.
  • He struggled to navigate the bureaucratic labyrinth of government forms required to start his business.
2.noun

An intricate or confusing arrangement of something.

Example Sentences:
  • The human brain is a complex labyrinth of neural pathways.
  • Her argument was a labyrinth of contradictions that left the jury bewildered.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “labyrinth”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'labyrinthus', which comes from the Greek 'labyrinthos'. It is famously associated with the mythical maze built by Daedalus for King Minos of Crete to contain the Minotaur. Its ultimate origin is likely pre-Greek, possibly related to the Carian word 'labrys', meaning 'double-headed axe', referring to the palace of Knossos where such axes were ceremonial symbols.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'lab' where you get lost in 'rhythms' of confusing corridors.

Frequently Asked Questions About “labyrinth

1. What is the meaning of “labyrinth” in English?

In English, labyrinth (noun) is defined as: “A complicated irregular network of passages or paths in which it is difficult to find one's way; a maze.”.

2. How do you use “labyrinth” in a sentence?

The old city is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets that confuse even the locals.

3. What are English synonyms of “labyrinth”?

Common synonyms include:maze,warren,tangle,web,network

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “labyrinth”?

Derived from the Latin 'labyrinthus', which comes from the Greek 'labyrinthos'. It is famously associated with the mythical maze built by Daedalus for King Minos of Crete to contain the Minotaur. Its ultimate origin is likely pre-Greek, possibly related to the Carian word 'labrys', meaning 'double-headed axe', referring to the palace of Knossos where such axes were ceremonial symbols.