Thursday, February 20, 2025

The origin of the word "Hygiene"

The word "hygiene" comes from the Greek word "Hygeia"  which means health. In Greek mythology Hygeia was the goddess of health, cleanliness, and hygiene. She was one of the daughters of Asclepius, the god of medicine.

Hygeia and her family played an important role in healing. Her father, Asclepius, was famous for his ability to cure diseases and even bring people back from the dead. Hygeia on the other hand focused on preventing sickness by promoting cleanliness and healthy living.

She was often shown as a young woman holding a bowl with a serpent drinking from it. This symbol  called the "Bowl of Hygeia," is still used in pharmacies and medicine today.

In ancient Greece, people believed that both healing (medicine) and prevention (hygiene) were important. While Asclepius and his other children  focused on treating diseases, Hygeia encouraged people to stay clean, eat well  and live a healthy lifestyle to avoid getting sick in the first place.

Over time, the word hygiene came to mean the practices that keep people clean and healthy, such as washing hands, maintaining personal cleanliness and preventing infections. In this way the word hygienic related to the word Hygiene.




Tuesday, February 18, 2025

The origin of the word "Nike"

The Nike symbol also known as “swoosh”that represents speed,movement, power and motivation. It's inspired by the wings of the Greek goddess Nike who symbolises victory, strength and swiftness. The Nike logo was designed by Carolyne Davidson - a Portland State University graphic design student. Davidson which inspired by the wings of Nike and was paid 35 dollars for her work.


We all recognise Nike as a famous sports brand, but did you know that it's name comes from “Greek mythology”? In ancient times, Nike was not just a brand - it was the name of a powerful goddess symbolising victory as well as success in battles ,competitions and even personal struggles.


Nike was the Greek goddess of victory. She was often depicted as a winged women , flying swiftly to reward winners with glory and success. Whether it was war or a sports competition. Nike was the daughter of Pallas ( a Titan God) and styx (godess representing the sacred river of the Underworld) . She had three siblings.


During the Titanomachy the great war between Olympian gods and the Titans Nike and her siblings sided with Zeus. They helped him defeat the Titans and establish his rule. As a reward, Zeus made Nike his close companion and she became his charioteer guiding him in battles.


Nike's name is still widely recognised today. The famous sports brand “Nike” was named after her because she represents speed, power and victory- qualities that every athlete aspires to have. So, the next time you see the Nike logo remember-it's more than just a brand, it's a reminder of an ancient goddess who symbolised the power of winning.

Origin of the word “Oedipus complex”

The term comes from Oedipus, the tragic hero who unknowingly killed his father and married his mother. Coined by  Sigmund Freud, the “Oedipu...