mythology

[mi-thol-uh-jee]

noun

plural

mythologies 

1. a body of myths, as that of a particular people or that relating to a particular person.

   Greek mythology.

2. myths collectively.

3. the science or study of myths.

4. a set of stories, traditions, or beliefs associated with a particular group or the history of an event, arising naturally or deliberately fostered.

   the Fascist mythology of the interwar years.

mythology

/ mɪˈθɒlədʒɪ /

noun

1. a body of myths, esp one associated with a particular culture, institution, person, etc

2. a body of stories about a person, institution, etc

   the mythology of Hollywood

3. myths collectively

4. the study or collecting of myths

mythology

1. The body of myths belonging to a culture. Myths are traditional stories about gods and heroes. They often account for the basic aspects of existence — explaining, for instance, how the Earth was created, why people have to die, or why the year is divided into seasons. Classical mythology — the myths of the ancient Greeks and Romans — has had an enormous influence on European and American culture.

Word History and Origins

Origin of mythology¹

1375–1425; late Middle English mythologie < Late Latin mȳthologia < Greek mȳthología. See mytho-, -logy

Example Sentences

Until now, “there’s never been much opposition, really” to the narrative of the Californios’ decline, Chavez-Garcia said, calling it “foundational” to the state’s mythology.

From Los Angeles Times

Her presence in the genre, her Blackness and her artistry, challenged long-standing assumptions about who belongs in the visual and sonic mythology of the American heartland.

From Salon

“And because of the Aztec mythology of Tonatiuh being the sun god, she woke up from the dream and was like, ‘My kid’s name is going to be Tonatiuh.’”

From Los Angeles Times

But Hawley is more interested in mythology and cautionary tales than headlines, and one far older than “Alien.”

From Los Angeles Times

Climate, romantic mythology, the lure of real estate wealth — all these factors set the stage for the greatest boom of all.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• belief 
• legend 
• lore 
• tradition