# Hades

/ˈheɪdiz/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hades
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the place where people go after they die in ancient Greek stories. It is also the name of the god who rules that dark world.

For teachers: the underworld of Greek mythology, serving as the abode of the dead. When capitalised, it refers to the chthonic deity who presides over this realm.

## Examples

- In the myth, Orpheus travels to Hades to find his wife.
- The ancient Greeks believed that Hermes would lead the souls of the deceased down into the depths of Hades.
- Modern literature often reimagines Hades not merely as a place of punishment, but as a complex bureaucratic landscape where every soul must eventually account for its earthly deeds.

## Usage notes

- Usually capitalised as a proper noun; often used with the definite article when referring to the place.

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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.