labyrinth

== English == === Etymology === From Middle English laberynt, laberynthe, from Latin labyrinthus, from Ancient Greek λᾰβύρῐνθος (lăbúrĭnthos, “a maze”). === Pronunciation === IPA(key): /ˈlæb.ə.ɹɪnθ/, /ˈlæb.ɹɪnθ/ === Noun === labyrinth (plural labyrinths) (Greek mythology) A maze-like structure built by Daedalus in Knossos, containing the Minotaur. A complicated irregular network of passages or paths, especially underground or covered, in which it is difficult to find one's way. Synonym: maze (horticulture) A maze formed by paths separated by high hedges. A structure similar to a maze, but containing only one path with no branches, as distinguished from a maze which contains multiple branching paths (by extension) Anything complicated and confusing in structure, arrangement, or character. (anatomy) A tortuous anatomical structure: (anatomy) A complex structure in the inner ear which contains the organs of hearing and balance, consisting of bony cavities (the bony labyrinth) filled with fluid and lined with sensitive membranes (the membranous labyrinth). (zoology) An accessory respiratory organ of certain fish. Any of various satyrine butterflies of the genus Neope. ==== Derived terms ==== ==== Translations ==== === Verb === labyrinth (third-person singular simple present labyrinths, present participle labyrinthing, simple past and past participle labyrinthed) To enclose in a labyrinth, or as though in a labyrinth. To arrange in the form of a labyrinth. To twist and wind, following a labyrinthine path. To become lost and confused, as if in a labyrinth. === References === John A. Simpson and Edmund S. C. Weiner, editors (1989), “labyrinth”, in The Oxford English Dictionary, 2nd edition, Oxford: Clarendon Press, →ISBN. “labyrinth”, in Lexico, Dictionary.com; Oxford University Press, 2019–2022. “labyrinth”, in Merriam-Webster.com Online Dictionary, Springfield, Mass.: Merriam-Webster, 1996–present.