WordGarden.iolegend
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /lˈɛdʒənd/
US
- /ˈlɛdʒənd/
Meanings
Noun
a very famous or admired person
a traditional story about heroic, historical, or supernatural events
an explanatory key to the symbols on a map, chart, or diagram
More meaningsFewer meanings
an exceptionally good or helpful person, used as casual praise
Beyond the definition
A legend isn't just any old tale; it's a story passed down through generations, often about heroic deeds or unusual events. Think of King Arthur, Robin Hood, or even a local hero whose name lives on over time. Legends mix history and fantasy, blurring the line between what actually happened and what people believe happened. Sometimes, "legend" also refers to someone who is extremely famous and admired, like a sports legend or a music legend. You might say, "He's become a legend in his field," meaning he has had great success and is respected by many. The word comes from the Latin legenda, meaning "things to be read," which fits its roots in stories meant to be shared, written down, and remembered.
The word "legend" has several fascinating layers of meaning. Primarily, it refers to a traditional story, often involving supernatural elements or heroic figures, that is passed down through generations. While they may resemble myths, legends often have a kernel of historical truth at their core, even if they have been embellished with fantastical details and moral lessons over time. Think of the folklore surrounding figures like William Tell or the mysterious sightings of the Loch Ness Monster. These narratives evolve, becoming part of the cultural fabric of a place.
However, "legend" also describes a person who is remarkably famous and respected—a "living legend." This usage emphasizes exceptional skill, achievement, or lasting influence. We might speak of a "jazz legend" like Miles Davis or a "sports legend" like Michael Jordan. In this sense, the word implies a level of excellence that grants the person a permanent place in public memory.
Interestingly, the process of "legend-making" often begins with real events. A historical figure's accomplishments might be exaggerated as their story is retold, transforming a mortal person into a legendary character where fact and fiction become inextricably linked.
Finally, the word has a technical application as the explanatory key on a map, chart, or technical drawing. This "legend" helps the reader understand the symbols and scales used. This meaning stems directly from the original sense of legenda as "things to be read" and interpreted. Whether it's a captivating tale of the past, a celebrated figure in the present, or a helpful guide to understanding data, "legend" speaks to stories, fame, and enduring significance.
Examples
- 1
Folklore
Every village around the lake has its own legend about the drowned city.
- 2
Old stories
According to legend, the old king hid his treasure somewhere in these hills.
- Phraseaccording to legend
in the old stories people tell
- 3
Urban myth
The story about spiders living in chewing gum is just an urban legend.
- Phraseurban legend
a surprising story many people repeat, but it is usually not true
- 4
Famous person
By the time she retired, the tennis player was already a legend.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Music world
He is a legend in the jazz world, but outside it few people know his name.
- Patterna legend in + field
very famous and admired in that area
- 6
Family story
Their grandfather became a family legend after he walked home through a snowstorm.
- 7
Map reading
Check the legend at the bottom of the map to see which line marks the hiking trail.
- 8
Data charts
The chart legend explains what the blue and green bars mean.
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- legendnoun
Forms
- legendspluralnoun