How Do You Spell DIRCE?

1. Dirce is a term with various meanings and applications across different fields. In Greek mythology, Dirce was an own sister of the Theban king Lycus. She married him and became the mother of two sons. She is most commonly known in the mythological context as the antagonist in the story of Antiope, the mother of Amphion and Zethus who were abandoned by their father. Dirce mistreats Antiope for many years until the sons grow up, avenge their mother, and tie Dirce to the horns of a bull who drags her to her death.

   However, in the realm of botany, Dirce takes on a different meaning. It refers to a genus of flowering plants in the family Symplocaceae, consisting of three species native to southeastern Asia. These plants are typically small to medium-sized trees or shrubs, known for their attractive foliage and the clusters of small, fragrant flowers they produce. They are often prized for their ornamental value and are cultivated in gardens and parks.

   In ancient Greece, Dirce was also the name of a river located in Boeotia. This river is now known as the Asopus or Askriotis river. It rises in Mount Parnassus and flows west to join the Cephissus River. The Dirce river is mentioned in various ancient texts, including Homer's Iliad and Ovid's Metamorphoses.

Common Misspellings for DIRCE

The word "Dirce" originates from Greek mythology. In Greek, it is spelled Δίρκη (Dirkē).

Dirce was a character in ancient Greek mythology who met a tragic end. She was the wife of King Lycus of Thebes and was known for her cruel nature. Dirce mistreated Antiope, who was the mother of twin sons sired by Zeus. In revenge, Antiope's sons, Amphion and Zethus, eventually overthrew King Lycus and tied Dirce to a wild bull, which led to her death.

Due to the significance of this story in Greek mythology, the name "Dirce" has been referenced in various literary works and adapted into different forms over time. The etymology of the word "Dirce" is directly tied to this mythological character.