Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

maenad

noun

/ˈmiːnæd/

Definition

A maenad is a female follower of Dionysus in ancient Greek mythology, known for her frenzied worship and ecstatic dance.

Examples

The maenads danced wildly in the moonlight, celebrating their god with unrestrained joy.
In ancient ceremonies, maenads were often depicted in art as holding thyrsi, symbolic of their connection to Dionysus.

Meaning

The term ‘maenad’ refers specifically to women who participated in the worship of the god Dionysus, often characterized by wild and uninhibited behavior. They were believed to be possessed by the god, experiencing a state of divine madness.