euhemerize

Definition

To invent a plausible but fanciful historical origin for something in order to rationalize mythology and legends.

Etymology

From euhemerism + -ize, ultimately from Latin Euhēmerus, from Ancient Greek Εὐήμερος (Euḗmeros), an ancient Greek Sicilian Skeptic who proposed most or all mythology derived from historical figures and natural events which received supernatural characteristics only through retelling.

Example Sentences

• "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."