Esfinge (en. Sphinx)

/esˈfiŋxe/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish
noun
Monument or figure with a lion's body and a human head.
The Sphinx of Giza is one of the wonders of the ancient world.
La esfinge de Giza es una de las maravillas del mundo antiguo.
Figure that represents a riddle or a mystery difficult to solve.
Life can seem like a sphinx full of riddles.
La vida puede parecer una esfinge llena de enigmas.

Etymology

From Latin 'sphynx', which comes from the Greek 'sphyngs', meaning 'to squeeze' or 'to strangle'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

sphinx of wisdom
Expression that describes a person who keeps secrets or hidden knowledge.
esfinge de la sabiduría
to solve the riddle of the sphinx
To search for the solution to a complex or mysterious problem.
resolver el enigma de la esfinge

Related Words

mystery
Hidden or incomprehensible thing that arouses curiosity.
misterio
enigma
Challenge or problem that is difficult to understand.
enigma

Slang Meanings

A person who keeps their intentions secret.
That guy is a sphinx; I never know what he's really thinking.
Ese tipo es una esfinge, nunca sé lo que realmente piensa.
Something that is difficult to understand or interpret.
The economic situation is a sphinx for many.
La situación económica es una esfinge para muchos.