# acalephan

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/acalephan
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a type of ancient creature from Greek mythology that looks like a lion with wings and a snake's tail. It is often shown in art as a monster that guards a treasure.

For teachers: a mythical creature from Greek and Roman art, typically depicted as a lion with wings and a serpentine tail. Often associated with the guardian of the golden apples in the Garden of the Hesperides.

## Examples

- The artist painted a fierce acalephan guarding the treasure.
- In many ancient sculptures, the acalephan is shown as a fearsome guardian with a lion's body and a snake's tail.
- The acalephan serves as a prime example of how ancient mythological creatures were used to symbolize both the protective power of the gods and the inherent danger of their domains.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.