Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
augean-stables
noun
/ɔːˈdʒiːən ˈsteɪbəlz/
Definition
Augean stables refer to a seemingly insurmountable task, especially one that requires a great deal of effort to clean up or set right.
Examples
- The company faced an Augean stables situation after the scandal, requiring extensive reforms.
- Cleaning up the polluted river felt like tackling the Augean stables.
- He was overwhelmed by the Augean stables of paperwork left behind by his predecessor.
Meaning
This term originates from Greek mythology, specifically the story of Hercules. It describes a daunting challenge that demands significant effort to resolve, often involving a messy or chaotic situation.
Synonyms
- overwhelming task
- daunting challenge
- immense cleanup
