legend
- 01 B1 Intermediate
an old story from the past that many people know, but which may not be entirely true.
a traditional story sometimes popularly regarded as historical but unauthenticated.
Simple“The legend of King Arthur has been told for hundreds of years.”
In context“Local legend suggests that a vast treasure remains buried beneath the ruins of the old castle, though no archaeological evidence has ever been found.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
someone who is very famous and admired for being extremely good at what they do.
an extremely famous or notorious person, especially in a particular field.
Simple“The retired singer is a living legend in the world of jazz music.”
In context“The late director was a legend of the silver screen, known for his uncompromising vision and technical innovation.”
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
a person who is very helpful, kind, or impressive in a specific moment.
a person whose actions or character are greatly admired; frequently used as a term of endearment or praise.
Simple“You found my lost keys? You are an absolute legend.”
In context“He is a total legend for staying late to help the rest of the team finish the project before the deadline.”
- 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
the part of a map or chart that explains what the symbols and colours mean.
the explanatory list of symbols on a map or chart.
Simple“Check the legend at the bottom of the map to see which lines represent hiking trails.”
In context“Without a clear legend, the complex geological map was nearly impossible for the students to interpret correctly.”
“While in Hargrove’s band, Fortner began studying with another legend, pianist Fred Hersch.”
“Repeat a family story often enough, and it becomes a kind of legend – or a curse.”
From Middle English legende, from Old French legende, from Medieval Latin legenda (“a legend, story, especially the lives of the saints”), from Latin legenda (“things which ought to be read”), from lego (“to read”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.