Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

tantalus

noun

/ˈtæn.təl.əs/

Definition

A mythical figure from Greek mythology, Tantalus is known for his punishment in the afterlife, where he is made to stand in a pool of water beneath a fruit tree, forever unable to reach either.

Examples

After being shown the luxurious desserts, she felt like a Tantalus, unable to indulge in any of them.
In his dreams, success was like a tantalizing fruit, always out of reach.