Artemis

/ɑrˈtɛmɪs/ noun

Definition

The Greek goddess of the hunt, moon, and wilderness, often depicted with a bow and accompanied by animals.

Etymology

From ancient Greek Artemis, possibly derived from Proto-Indo-European roots meaning 'to cut' or 'slicer,' referring to her role as a hunter. The name appears in Linear B inscriptions from Mycenaean Greece and was associated with protection of young women and animals.

Kelly Says

Artemis was one of the few major Greek goddesses who rejected marriage—she took a vow of virginity, which gave her unusual independence in ancient mythology. Her month of Artemision in the ancient calendar shows how important she was to everyday life, and NASA named its lunar program after her because she's the moon goddess.

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