euhemerize

Definitions

1. To invent a plausible but fanciful historical origin for something in order to rationalize mythology and legends.
   ambitransitive, derogatory
2. Synonym of deify: to actually create mythology and legends from ancient historical figures and events.
   ambitransitive

Equivalents

Examples

“Confucian scholars frequently euhemerized the myths used to explain⟳ religious rituals to the public.”

“He did but extend⟳ to the New Testament the Euhemerising principles which Eichhorn had applied to the Old.”

“The legend of Semiramis was a euhemerised version of the story of Istar.”

“The Yellow Emperor was perhaps euhemerized from a prehistoric tribal leader.”

CEFR level