tantalus Definition
- 1a person or thing that is always just out of reach or in some way unattainable
- 2a stand or case containing a set of decanters and glasses, typically one used for serving drinks
Using tantalus: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "tantalus" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The job offer was tantalizing, but ultimately out of reach.
Example
The tantalus of success kept him motivated.
Example
The tantalus of love left him feeling unfulfilled.
Example
The tantalus of fame drove her to pursue her dreams.
tantalus Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for tantalus
- temptation
- frustration
- disappointment
- tease
- unfulfilled desire
Antonyms for tantalus
Phrases with tantalus
a punishment where something desirable is always just out of reach
Example
He felt like he was under a tantalus punishment, with success always just out of reach.
a psychological condition where a person feels that their goals are always just out of reach
Example
She suffered from tantalus syndrome, always feeling like she was close to achieving her dreams but never quite getting there.
a type of glassware that is designed to prevent the person using it from drinking too much
Example
The bartender served the drink in a tantalus glass to ensure that the customer didn't overindulge.
Origins of tantalus
from Greek mythology, Tantalus was a king who was punished by the gods by being made to stand in water that receded when he tried to drink it and under fruit that moved away when he tried to eat it
Summary: tantalus in Brief
The term 'tantalus' [ˈtæntələs] refers to a person or thing that is always just out of reach or unattainable, often causing frustration or disappointment. It can also refer to a stand or case containing decanters and glasses, typically used for serving drinks. Phrases like 'tantalus punishment' and 'tantalus syndrome' describe the feeling of always being close to achieving something but never quite getting there.
