Legend

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈlɛd͡ʒ.ənd/

Definitions

1. A traditional narrative passed down culturally often involving heroic deeds or supernatural events ; a well-known or celebrated individual noted for notable achievements or qualities ; a key that explains symbols or markings used on maps or diagrams
2. A story originating from oral traditions that may include mythical elements ; a person renowned for extraordinary accomplishments or influence ; an informational guide that helps readers interpret visual representations like maps
3. A widely told tale that conveys cultural beliefs, often featuring fictional or historical characters ; an iconic or celebrated figure recognized for their impact or reputation ; a descriptive list or guide that clarifies symbols and signs used in cartography or illustrations

Etymology: The most surprising thing about "legend" is that its Latin ancestor, "legenda," meant "things which ought to be read." It is the neuter plural of a gerundive form of "lego," "to read," so the word began as an instruction about books rather than a name for a tale. Medieval Latin then narrowed it to the readings used in church services, especially the lives of the saints, and those texts became the core of the sense we now know. From Old French "legende," the word passed into Middle English as "legende," and its meaning kept drifting toward the marvellous. Saints' lives were full of miracles, so a "legend" came to mean an account of extraordinary deeds, and eventually any traditional story that might be partly true. The modern sense of a folk story carries that same mix of record and wonder.

Synonyms: myth, tale, story

Antonyms: fact, reality