Midas

American  

[mahy-duhs] / ˈmaɪ dəs /

noun

1. Classical Mythology. a Phrygian king, son of Gordius, who was given by Dionysus the power of turning whatever he touched into gold.

2. a person of great wealth or great moneymaking ability.

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MIDAS ¹ British  

/ ˈmaɪdəs /

acronym

1. Missile Defence Alarm System

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Midas ² British  

/ ˈmaɪdəs /

noun

1. Greek legend a king of Phrygia given the power by Dionysus of turning everything he touched to gold

2. ability to make money

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Midas Cultural  

1. In classical mythology, a king who was granted one wish by the god Dionysus. Greedy for riches, Midas wished that everything he touched would turn to gold. He soon regretted his request. When he tried to eat, his food became inedible metal. When he embraced his daughter, she turned into a golden statue. On the instruction of Dionysus, he washed in a river and lost his touch of gold.

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A person who is very successful or easily acquires riches is sometimes said to have a “Midas touch.”

Example Sentences

After masterminding surprise wins over Manchester City and Premier League leaders Arsenal, this remarkable encounter suggested former United midfielder Carrick might have the Midas touch.

From Barron's • Feb. 1, 2026

Here’s to hoping Netflix is no Midas in reverse.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 5, 2025

Investigators even gave their probe a snappy name: Operation Midas.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 4, 2025

The Parkhead club once had a bit of a Midas Touch when it came to finding rough diamonds, polishing them up and then selling them on.

From BBC • Aug. 31, 2025

Of course Bacchus in granting the favor foresaw what would happen at the next meal, but Midas saw nothing until the food he lifted to his lips became a lump of metal.

From "Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes" by Edith Hamilton