Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
pyrrhic
Adjective
/ˈpɪr.ɪk/
Definition
A type of victory that comes at such a significant cost to the victor that it is almost tantamount to defeat.
Examples
- The general won a pyrrhic victory, losing half of his troops in the process.
- Although she achieved her career goals, the countless hours of stress made it feel like a pyrrhic success.
- The team celebrated their win, but the multiple injuries made it a pyrrhic achievement.
Meaning
Refers to a situation where the winner’s victory comes with devastating losses, making the win look less worthwhile.
Synonyms
- Hollow victory
- Costly victory
- Defeating win
