coriolanus: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Literary/Academic
Quick answer
What does “coriolanus” mean?
A legendary Roman general, later the title character of Shakespeare's tragedy.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A legendary Roman general, later the title character of Shakespeare's tragedy.
Refers specifically to the Shakespearean character known for his military prowess, pride, political defiance, and ultimate exile and downfall; by extension, a person who is inflexibly proud, contemptuous of the common people, and ultimately self-destructive.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning. British usage is slightly more frequent due to greater prominence of Shakespeare in general culture.
Connotations
In both regions, strongly connotes classical literature, Shakespearean tragedy, and complex themes of honour versus populism.
Frequency
Very low frequency in both varieties, confined to literary, historical, and dramatic discussions.
Grammar
How to Use “coriolanus” in a Sentence
[Proper Noun]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “coriolanus” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- His Coriolanus-like disdain for the electorate was noted.
American English
- She dismissed the feedback with a Coriolanus attitude.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in literary criticism, classical studies, and history departments when discussing Roman legend or Shakespeare.
Everyday
Extremely rare outside of specific references to the play or character.
Technical
Used in theatre, drama, and performance studies.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “coriolanus”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “coriolanus”
- Using it as a common adjective ('He was very Coriolanus.') without clear context.
- Misspelling: Corialanus, Coriolonus.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a highly specialised proper noun. Its use in everyday conversation would be obscure and require explanation.
Only in a highly literary or academic context, typically hyphenated (e.g., 'Coriolanus-like pride'). It is not a standard adjective.
The central themes are the conflict between personal honour and public duty, the dangers of pride (hubris), and the fraught relationship between a military hero and the civilian populace he scorns.
In British English, it is /ˌkɒr.i.əˈleɪ.nəs/ (kor-ee-uh-LAY-nuhs). In American English, it is /ˌkɔːr.i.əˈleɪ.nəs/ (kor-ee-uh-LAY-nuhs), with a longer 'o' sound at the start.
A legendary Roman general, later the title character of Shakespeare's tragedy.
Coriolanus is usually literary/academic in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “a Coriolanus complex (rare: denoting excessive pride and contempt for inferiors)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
CORIOLANUS: CORn-fed, I, O, LOUD, and haughty, AN USurper of public affection? (He was not.)
Conceptual Metaphor
PRIDE IS A WALL (that isolates and dooms); POLITICAL INFLEXIBILITY IS A CLIFF (from which one falls).
Practice
Quiz
In a literary discussion, describing a character as 'a modern Coriolanus' primarily suggests what trait?