myth
UK[mɪθ]US[mɪθ]
n
a traditional story, especially one concerning the early history of a people or explaining a natural or social phenomenon, and typically involving supernatural beings or events.
n
a widely held but false belief or idea.
Etymology
the word "myth" entered english in the early 19th century from modern latin mythus, which itself originates from the greek muthos, meaning 'speech, thought, story, myth'. the greek term is of unknown ultimate origin. in its classical usage, muthos was a neutral term for a story or narrative, but through its academic transmission into english, it became specifically associated with traditional sacred narratives involving gods and heroes. the modern abstract meaning, denoting a widely held but false belief, developed from the perception of these ancient stories as fictional accounts, contrasting with historical or scientific truth.
Analysis
the word "myth" is a simplex loanword from greek via latin and french. it does not contain separable morphemes in its modern english spelling.
Examples
the ancient greek myth of persephone explains the changing seasons.
the idea that you only use 10 percent of your brain is a complete myth.
many creation myths share common themes across different cultures.