atalanta: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowLiterary, Mythological, Formal (as a name)
Quick answer
What does “atalanta” mean?
A proper noun referring to a mythological Greek huntress known for her speed and athleticism.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A proper noun referring to a mythological Greek huntress known for her speed and athleticism.
Used metaphorically to refer to a very fast or athletic woman, or as a given name. In astronomy, it is the name of an asteroid (36 Atalanta).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in usage; the word is equally rare in both varieties.
Connotations
Evokes classical mythology, speed, and independence. May carry an archaic or learned tone.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general corpora. Slightly higher occurrence in literary or academic texts discussing mythology.
Grammar
How to Use “atalanta” in a Sentence
[Proper Noun] (verb) ...like [Proper Noun]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “atalanta” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- Her Atalanta-like speed won the race.
American English
- She had an Atalanta-esque pace on the track.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in classical studies, literature, and history contexts.
Everyday
Extremely rare; might be used as a given name.
Technical
Used in astronomy for asteroid 36 Atalanta.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “atalanta”
- Misspelling as 'Atlanta'. Using it as a common noun without clear metaphorical intent.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a very low-frequency proper noun from Greek mythology.
No, it is exclusively a proper noun. Figurative uses like 'Atalanta-like' are possible but rare and adjectival.
She was a virgin huntress who vowed to marry only a man who could beat her in a footrace. Hippomenes (or Melanion) won by distracting her with golden apples.
In American English, it is typically pronounced /ˌæt̬əˈlæntə/, with a flapped 't' sound.
A proper noun referring to a mythological Greek huntress known for her speed and athleticism.
Atalanta is usually literary, mythological, formal (as a name) in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “an Atalanta (rare: a very fast woman)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Atalanta ran AT A LANE faster than anyone.
Conceptual Metaphor
SPEED IS A MYTHOLOGICAL HUNTRESS (e.g., 'She ran like Atalanta').
Practice
Quiz
What is 'Atalanta' primarily known as?