Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
chimera
noun
/kɪˈmɪərə/
Definition
A mythical creature with parts from different animals or a fantasy or illusion.
Examples
- In mythology, the chimera is said to have the body of a lion, a goat’s head on its back, and a serpent for a tail.
- His plans for the future were a chimera, combining wishes that seemed unlikely to come true.
- Scientists often talk about genetic chimeras when discussing organisms that contain cells from two different species.
Meaning
The term ‘chimera’ is often used to describe something that is made up of various elements, especially in a way that is impossible or fantastical.
Synonyms
- illusion
- fantasy
- fantastical being
- pipe dream
- myth
