eu·he·mer·ism (y -h  m -r z m, -h m-)n. A theory attributing the origin of the gods to the deification of historical heroes. [After Euhemerus, fourth-century b.c. Greek philosopher.] eu·he mer·ist n.eu·he mer·istic adj.eu·he mer·isti·cal·ly adv. |
euhemerism [juːˈhiːməˌrɪzəm]
n
1. (Myth & Legend / Classical Myth & Legend) the theory that gods arose out of the deification of historical heroes
2. (Myth & Legend / Classical Myth & Legend) any interpretation of myths that derives the gods from outstanding men and seeks the source of mythology in history
[named after Euhemerus (?300 bc), Greek philosopher who propounded this theory]
euhemerist n
euhemeristic adj
euhemeristically adv
euhemerism
the belief that the mythological gods were merely early kings and heroes deified. — euhemerist, n. — euhemeristic, adj.
See also: God and Godsthe belief that the mythological gods were merely legendary kings and heroes deified. — euhemerist, n. — euhemeristic, adj.
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