Chthonic

Chthonic

ˈTHänik

Adjective

  • Concerning, belonging to, or inhabiting the underworld.

Get a new word in your inbox every day.

By subscribing you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Example Sentences

“Chthonic stories aren’t all spooky and evil, but they’re about the underworld and death.”

“The stories about Hermes are my favorite of the chthonic tales.”

“The writer coming to the bookstore next week has published a series of novels based on the chthonic figures.”

Word Origin

Greek, late 19th century

Why this word?

In Greek mythology, Hades and Persephone were the chthonic rulers, or the king and queen of the underworld. In Greek, “khthōn” means “earth,” but with the addition of the “-ic” suffix in the late 19th century, “chthonic” describes elements belonging to the underworld. In the Greek tradition, the 12 Olympian gods (Aphrodite, Apollo, Ares, Artemis, Athena, Demeter, Dionysus, Hephaestus, Hera, Hermes, Poseidon, and Zeus) resided above the Earth in Olympus, while the chthonic gods (Hades, Persephones, Cerberus, Charon, Chronus, Erinyes, Hecate, Hermes, Hypnus, Moirae, Nyx, and Thanatus) were below in the underworld. 

  • More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    Subscribe to Better Report to receive tips and tricks that will save you money, maximize your time, and improve your life.

    Subscribe to Better Report
    By clicking “Subscribe” you’re agreeing to Better Report Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Learn a new word Gochujang

ˈkōCHo͞oˌjäNG