Cerberean

/sɜrˈbɪriən/ adjective

Definition

Relating to Cerberus, the three-headed dog from Greek mythology who guarded the gates of the underworld.

Etymology

From Greek Kerberos (Cerberus), the mythological guard dog, plus the suffix -ean meaning 'of or relating to.' The name's origin is uncertain but may derive from Proto-Indo-European roots related to spotted or speckled, possibly referring to the dog's appearance.

Kelly Says

Cerberus was so famous in ancient mythology that his name became an adjective to describe anything fiercely protective or impossible to get past—which is why people still use 'cerberean' today when talking about something difficult to penetrate, like a heavily guarded fortress.

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