Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
holofernes
noun
/ˌhoʊləˈfɜrniːz/
Definition
A character from the Biblical story who is depicted as a general of the Assyrian army.
Examples
- In the biblical narrative, Judith seduces Holofernes and eventually kills him to save her people.
- The story of Holofernes has inspired numerous works of art and literature throughout history.
Meaning
Holofernes is often portrayed in literature and art as a symbol of tyranny and oppression, especially in the context of the story of Judith, where he is defeated by the cleverness and bravery of Judith.
Synonyms
- Assyrian general
- tyrant
