behemoth
Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary
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[edit] English
[edit] Etymology
From Hebrew בהמות (Bəhēmôth), the name of a creature mentioned in the Book of Job (XL.xv). It is most likely a plural form of בהמה (bəhēmāh), “‘animal’”). It may be an example of pluralis excellentiae, a Hebrew method of expressing greatness by pluralizing a noun; it thus indicates that Behemoth is the largest and most powerful animal. It is also suspected that it is derived from the ancient Egyptian name for the hippopotamus, 'p-ehe-mau', which literally translates as "water ox." [1] The word entered into Middle English at around the 14th century from late Latin.
[edit] Pronunciation
[edit] Noun
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Singular |
Plural |
behemoth (plural behemoths)
- A great and mighty beast described in Job 40:15-24 used to illustrate God's mightiness.
- A great and mighty monster.
- Something which has the qualities of great power and might, and monstrous proportions.
[edit] Synonyms
[edit] Quotations
- 1611 — King James Version of the Bible, Job 40:15-18
- Behold now behemoth, which I made with thee; he eateth grass as an ox.
Lo now, his strength is in his loins, and his force is in the navel of his belly.
He moveth his tail like a cedar: the sinews of his stones are wrapped together.
His bones are as strong pieces of brass; his bones are like bars of iron.
- Behold now behemoth, which I made with thee; he eateth grass as an ox.
- 2001 — Eoin Colfer, Artemis Fowl, p 58
- Next she doused the smouldering troll with the contents of the restaurant's fire extinguisher, hoping the icy powder wouldn't revive the sleeping behemoth.
[edit] Translations
mighty beast in the Book of Job
mighty monster
something of great size and power
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