Epithet Worksheets, Examples In Literature & Definition For Kids

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The word epithet comes from the Greek word epithetos, which means attributed or added. Often, this word or phrase, used to describe the person, becomes synonymous with the person and can be used as part of his/her name or in place of his/her name. In simpler explanation, epithet is a special nickname that replaces the name of a person and often describes them in some way.

Epithets show how strong certain character traits or physical traits are, as they come to replace the actual names of people, places, or things. Also known as sobriquets, these longstanding nicknames label the most memorable aspects of kings and queens and also provide simplified names for complicated or scientific concepts.

To write an epithet, you must first choose a subject and identify one of its defining traits. Then, use that trait as a byname or as a replacement name.

Example:

Dan has large muscles. To emphasize Dan’s physique, we can call him Muscle Man.
“Hey there Muscle man!’

Epithets can be found on Greek Gods, biblical figures, royalty, athletes, friends, and family members. It can also be found in poetry and prose, plays, movies and even songs.

Samples of Epithet and their meaning:

Man’s Best Friend – This is understood as a dog because it has been a constant companion to human beings.

Daddy Longlegs – an epithet commonly used for Opiliones spiders

Example of epithet in a sentence:

Sitting by his side, I watched the peaceful dawn.
My careful steps reached the attic.
Her stifled laughter made everybody nervous.

Other examples of Epithet:

Catherine the Great
Richard the Lion-Heart
The Great Emancipator (Abraham Lincoln)
The Piano Man (Billy Joel)

Examples of Epithets in Literature:

1. Greek Mythology:

a. Grey-eyed Athena
b. White-armed Hera
c. Swift-footed Achilles

2. Shakespeare epithets:

a. Star-crossed lovers-describes Romeo and Juliet in “Romeo and Juliet”
b. Turn, hell-hound, turn – Macduff to Macbeth in Macbeth
c. Fair Ophelia in Hamlet