eidolon

[ ahy-doh-luhn ]

noun

, plural ei·do·la [ahy-, doh, -l, uh], ei·do·lons.

1. a phantom; apparition.
2. an ideal.

eidolon

/ aɪˈdəʊlɒn /

noun

1. an unsubstantial image; apparition; phantom
2. an ideal or idealized figure

Word History and Origins

Origin of eidolon¹

First recorded in 1820–30; idol

Word History and Origins

Origin of eidolon¹

C19: from Greek: phantom, idol

Example Sentences

In the background of all we fancy a hideous Eidolon, from whose side even the damned recoil in loathing.

From Project Gutenberg

Whichever way she turned the eidolon of Caroline met her as a bar to all further progress in her design upon the Intendant.

From Project Gutenberg

I could thus see myself, gazing through my dream eyes on my eidolon, as if it were only a reflection in a mirror.

From Project Gutenberg

The Homeric solution is to divide the man, or to double him, into his shade (eidolon) and his self.

From Project Gutenberg

But if any one likes let us leave him a mere Eidolon, an earlier "Great Unknown."

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• demon
• devil
• phantom
• shadow
• soul
• specter
• vampire
• vision