semele: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very lowFormal, literary, academic
Quick answer
What does “semele” mean?
A proper noun referring to a figure from Greek mythology, the mother of Dionysus by Zeus.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A proper noun referring to a figure from Greek mythology, the mother of Dionysus by Zeus.
In botanical contexts, sometimes used as a genus name for certain plants, though this usage is rare and specialized.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in usage or meaning between British and American English.
Connotations
Carries connotations of classical antiquity, tragedy (as Semele was destroyed by Zeus's glory), and divine parentage.
Frequency
Extremely rare in both varieties, appearing only in specialized texts.
Grammar
How to Use “semele” in a Sentence
Proper noun used in apposition (e.g., 'Semele, the Theban princess')Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in classical studies, literature, and mythology courses.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Rarely used in botanical nomenclature.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “semele”
- Misspelling as 'Semelle' (a shoe part) or 'Semeli'.
- Using it as a common noun.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a very low-frequency proper noun from Greek mythology.
No, it is exclusively a proper noun. There are no standard verb or adjective forms.
It refers to a specific mythological character and is not part of general, everyday vocabulary.
No, it does not feature in any common English idioms or fixed phrases.
A proper noun referring to a figure from Greek mythology, the mother of Dionysus by Zeus.
Semele is usually formal, literary, academic in register.
Semele: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsɛmɪliː/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsɛməli/ or /səˈmiːli/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Semele: SEE Zeus, MELTED by his light (remembering her fate).
Conceptual Metaphor
MORTAL DESTRUCTION BY DIVINE CONTACT (as Semele was destroyed upon seeing Zeus in his full glory).
Practice
Quiz
In what context is the word 'Semele' primarily used?