legend
LEJ-uhnd
/ˈledʒənd/
A traditional story sometimes popularly regarded as historical but unauthenticated.
Unlike myths, which deal with gods and the origins of the world, legends usually focus on human heroes and specific historical locations.
The story behind the word. In Medieval Latin, 'legenda' referred to a collection of stories about the lives of saints that were 'to be read' in church. Over time, the meaning broadened to include any traditional story about the past.
Word relationships
- fable: A fable usually features animals and teaches a specific moral lesson.
- history: History is based on verifiable facts and evidence, whereas legend is based on tradition.
Commonly confused with
- myth: Myths involve gods and cosmic origins; legends involve humans and historical settings.
Word family
- legendary (adjective): Remarkable enough to be famous; very well known.
Collocations
- urban legend
- living legend
- local legend
- ancient legend
Idioms & expressions
- the stuff of legends
Example sentences
- "The legend of Robin Hood has been told for centuries, though historians doubt he was a single real person." Folklore
- "A legend is a lie that has attained the dignity of age." General Usage (Attributed to various (often H.L. Mencken))
Memory hook
A 'Legend' is something you 'Read' (from the Latin root 'leg' as in 'legible'). History's tall tale.
When not to use
Do not use it for stories about the creation of the stars (that's a myth); use it for stories like King Arthur or Robin Hood.
Fun facts
- The word 'legend' also refers to the key on a map, which 'must be read' to understand the symbols.
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