Helen of Troy

Cultural  

1. In classical mythology, the most beautiful woman in the world, a daughter of Zeus by Leda. Her abduction by Paris led to the Trojan War (see also Trojan War). Helen's was “the face that launched a thousand ships”: the entire Greek army sailed to Troy to get her back. (See Judgment of Paris.)

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Example Sentences

The Oscar-winning actress playing Helen of Troy told Elle she’s heard some of the criticism, but doesn’t think it’s worth much thought.

From Salon • May 24, 2026

Actress Lupita Nyong'o has told people who have criticised her casting as Helen of Troy in Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey to remember that "this is a mythological story".

From BBC • May 22, 2026

Helen of Troy Ltd., down $15.14 to $154.75.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 7, 2022

During her sit-down, the star reflected on her 2004 movie "Troy" where she played Helen of Troy opposite Brad Pitt.

From Fox News • Mar. 15, 2022

Like Helen of Troy, she explained: also it sounded like Hailan, her real name, Sea Blue.

From "Typical American" by Gish Jen