# Hermes

/ˈhɝmiz/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hermes
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

the messenger of the gods in ancient Greek stories. He is known for being very fast and for wearing sandals with wings.

For teachers: the Olympian god of transitions and boundaries, serving as the herald and messenger of the gods. Often depicted with winged sandals and a caduceus; functions as a psychopomp who conducts souls into the afterlife.

## Examples

- Hermes delivered a message from Zeus to the other gods.
- In many classical paintings, Hermes is easily identified by his winged hat and the staff he carries.
- The myth of Hermes stealing Apollo's cattle serves as a foundational narrative for his role as the patron of thieves and the god of cleverness and wit.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The Hermes was fast." but "Hermes was fast." — As a proper name for a deity, it does not take a definite article.

## Usage notes

- When referring to the Greek deity, it is a proper noun and always capitalized.

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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.