pantheon
UK[ˈpænθiən]US[ˈpænθiˌɑːn]
n
a temple dedicated to all the gods of a religion, especially the circular one in rome.
n
all the gods of a people or religion collectively.
n
a group of people who are the most famous, important, and admired in a particular area of activity.
Morpheme Breakdown
pan
theon
pan
all
theon
gods
Etymology
the word "pantheon" is a direct borrowing from latin "pantheum," which itself originates from the greek "pantheion," meaning "of all the gods." the greek term is a compound of "pan-" (all) and "theos" (god). originally referring to a temple consecrated to all deities, its meaning expanded in latin and later english usage to signify the collective body of gods themselves. by metaphorical extension, it came to denote any group of highly esteemed individuals, reflecting the elevated status once reserved for the divine.
Analysis
Structure: pan (all) + theon (gods)
pan (greek origin, meaning "all, every"); theon (from greek 'theos', meaning "god, deity")
Examples
the roman pantheon, with its magnificent dome, is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings.
the novel explores the conflicts within the greek pantheon, focusing on the rivalry between zeus and hera.
she has earned her place in the pantheon of great american writers.