All words
word
Mythology

sphinx

SFINKS

sfɪŋks

Listen

Hear it in a clear American voice. Slow it down to catch each syllable.

Syllable breakdown

sphinx

Dictionary meaning

A mythological figure with a human head and a lion's body; the Great Sphinx of Giza is the most famous example, a colossal ancient statue.

History and origin

Greek — 'Sphingx', of uncertain origin; possibly from Egyptian 'shesep ankh' (living image).

Examples

  • The Great Sphinx of Giza stands guard before the pyramids on the Giza plateau.

Common mispronunciations

SFINKSSPINKSSFINX

Learn one new pronunciation a day

Get a word, name or idiom like “sphinx” in your inbox — daily or weekly, free. Unsubscribe any time.

Something wrong? Suggest a correction