Pyrrhus

[ pir-uhs ]

noun

1. c318–272 b.c., king of Epirus c300–272.
2. Classical Mythology. Neoptolemus.

Pyrrhus

/ ˈpɪrəs /

noun

1. Pyrrhus319 bc272 bcMGreekPOLITICS: hereditary ruler 319–272 bc , king of Epirus (306–272). He invaded Italy but was ultimately defeated by the Romans (275 bc )
2. another name for Neoptolemus

Derived Forms

• ˈPyrrhic, adjective

Example Sentences

“Another such victory and we shall be utterly ruined,” the Greek King Pyrrhus of Epirus supposedly muttered after his army lost thousands of soldiers while defeating the Romans at Asculum in 279 B.C.

From Washington Post

Pyrrhus is the novel’s most interesting character after Briseis, ensnared by the imperative to dominate and subdue as surely as she and the other women are trapped in servitude and submission.

From Washington Post

When Troy fell she had been given to Neoptolemus, sometimes called Pyrrhus, Achilles’ son, the man who had killed old Priam at the altar.

From Literature

It was, Edward J. Watts shows in “Mortal Republic,” thanks to the unrivaled strength of Rome’s political institutions that Pyrrhus’ victories ultimately issued in his proverbial defeat.

From New York Times

“Give me the speech of Pyrrhus, who with arms black as his purpose, sought vengeance on old Priam!”

From Literature