muses
n. plural-onlyn. the nine goddesses from Greek stories who inspire art, music, and science. Today, the word can also mean any person who gives an artist or writer great ideas.
n. the nine sister goddesses in Greek mythology who preside over the arts and sciences. In modern contexts, refers to sources of artistic inspiration, often personified as individuals who stimulate a creator's imagination.
The poet asked the muses for help with his new book.
Ancient writers often began their epic poems by calling upon the muses to grant them the words they needed.
While the classical muses were divine entities, modern biographers often identify specific historical figures who served as the creative catalysts for a painter's most celebrated works.
When referring to the Greek goddesses, the word is typically capitalized and used in the plural.