argus
argus Lexical Profile
argus Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Any of several large, pheasant-like birds (especially of the genus Argusianus) native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia, characterized by numerous large, eye-like spots on their flight feathers.
"During the mating season, the male great argus clears a patch of the forest floor to display his spectacular, eye-spotted plumage."
A small butterfly of the family Lycaenidae or Nymphalidae, typically characterized by wings marked with small, distinct eyespots.
"The northern brown argus is a delicate butterfly that can occasionally be found fluttering over limestone grasslands during the summer."
A highly observant, vigilant, or watchful person; a strict and alert guardian.
"The experienced editor acted as an argus, catching even the most subtle typographical errors before the manuscript went to print."
Word Nuance & Usage
When capitalized (Argus), it refers to the hundred-eyed giant of Greek mythology; when lowercase, it functions as a common noun for a watchful person, or specific birds and butterflies bearing eye-like spots.
• Rhymes for argus
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Latin Argus, from Greek Argos (Ἄργος), the name of the hundred-eyed giant in Greek mythology who was appointed to guard the heifer Io.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.