Hercules

[hur-kyuh-leez] /ˈhɜr kyəˌliz/
noun, genitive Herculis
[hur-kyuh-lis] /ˈhɜr kyə lɪs/ (Show IPA), for 2.
1.
Also, Heracles. Also called Alcides. Classical Mythology. a celebrated hero, the son of Zeus and Alcmene, possessing exceptional strength: among his many adventures were the twelve labors for his cousin Eurystheus, performed in order to gain immortality.
Compare labors of Hercules.
2.
Astronomy. a northern constellation, between Lyra and Corona Borealis.
Origin
< Latin Herculēs, Herclēs < Greek; see Heracles
British Dictionary definitions for Hercules

Hercules1

/ˈhɜːkjʊˌliːz/
noun
1.
(classical myth) Also called Alcides. a hero noted for his great strength, courage, and for the performance of twelve immense labours
2.
a man of outstanding strength or size
Derived Forms
Herculean, Heraclean, Heraklean, adjective

Hercules2

/ˈhɜːkjʊˌliːz/
noun (Latin genitive) Herculeis (ˌhɜːkjʊˈliːɪs)
1.
a large constellation in the N hemisphere lying between Lyra and Corona Borealis
2.
a conspicuous crater in the NW quadrant of the moon, about 70 kilometres in diameter
Word Origin and History for Hercules

hero, son of Zeus and Alcmene, c.1200 (originally in reference to the Pillars of Hercules), also Ercules, from Latin Hercles, from Greek Herakles, literally "Glory of Hera;" from Hera (q.v.) + kleos "glory, renown" (see Clio). Used figuratively of strength since late 14c. Vocative form Hercule was a common Roman interjection (especially me Hercule!) "assuredly, certainly."

Hercules in Science
Hercules
  (hûr'kyə-lēz')   
A constellation in the Northern Hemisphere near Lyra and Corona Borealis.
Hercules in Culture

Hercules definition


One of the greatest heroes of classical mythology, he is supposed to have been the strongest man on earth. He was renowned for completing twelve seemingly impossible tasks — the Labors of Hercules. One of these labors was the cleaning of the Augean stables; another was the killing of the nine-headed Hydra. Hercules was a son of Zeus.