centaur
UK: ˈsɛntɔː | US: ˈsɛntɔːr
n. A mythical creature with the upper body of a human and the lower body of a horse.
n. (Astronomy) A celestial object with characteristics of both asteroids and comets.
The word centaur traces back to Greek mythology, where centaurs were wild, horse-human hybrids. The term may combine kentron (referring to a bull’s goad or spiked weapon) and tauros (bull), reflecting early associations with untamed strength. Over time, the spelling evolved into Latin centaurus, then Old French centaure, before settling into English. The dual-form creature symbolizes a fusion of human intellect and animal instinct.
The centaur in the myth was both wise and savage.
Chiron, a famous centaur, was known as a mentor to Greek heroes.
The sculpture depicted a centaur mid-gallop.
Astronomers discovered a new centaur orbiting between Jupiter and Neptune.
In fantasy novels, centaurs often guard enchanted forests.