Gordian knot

Definition

The legendary knot tied to a pole near the temple of Zeus in Gordium.

Etymology

From the name of a legendary knot tied to a pole near the temple of Zeus in Gordium. It was prophesied that whoever loosed the knot would become ruler of all Asia. Alexander the Great solved the puzzle by slicing through the knot and took it as a sign of Zeus' favor. He then proceeded to conquer much of the known world.

Example Sentences

• "List his discourse of war, and you shall hear A fearful battle rend'red you in music; Turn him to any cause of policy, The Gordian knot of it he will unloose."
• "The knot which you thought a Gordian one, will untie itself before you."
• "Mr. Tooke thought he had answered this question satisfactorily, and loosened the Gordian knot of grammarians[…]"