chthonian

[ thoh-nee-uhn ]

adjective

, Classical Mythology.

1. of or relating to the deities, spirits, and other beings dwelling under the earth.

chthonian

/ ˈθəʊnɪən; ˈθɒnɪk /

adjective

1. of or relating to the underworld

Word History and Origins

Origin of chthonian¹

First recorded in 1840–50; from Greek chthóni(os) ( chthon-, stem of chthṓn “earth” + -ios adjective suffix) + -an; akin to Latin humus “earth” ( humus )

Word History and Origins

Origin of chthonian¹

C19: from Greek khthonios in or under the earth, from khthōn earth

Example Sentences

As a chthonian power, she is worshipped at the Samothracian mysteries, and is closely connected with Demeter.

From Project Gutenberg

The Chthonian deities form a counterpart to the dwellers on Olympus.

From Project Gutenberg

A man who divorced his wife was to make an offering to the Chthonian gods.

From Project Gutenberg

It must be strange to die, surrounded by jackals at their chthonian litanies.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• demonic
• devilish
• hellish
• malevolent
• wicked