Chthonian

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈkθəʊnɪən/
• IPA: /ˈθəʊnɪən/

Origin

From Ancient Greek χθόνιος (khthonios, "in or under the ground"), from χθών (khthōn, "ground").

Full definition of chthonian

Adjective

1. Pertaining to the underworld; being beneath the earth.
• 1955: ...I intend to apply the name chthonian to all gods and spirits of the earth, whether their functions are concerned with agriculture or with the grave and the world beyond, or (as often) with both. — W.K.C. Guthrie, The Greeks and Their Gods (Beacon Press 1955, p. 219)

Related terms

• Chthonia
• chthonic