# phoenix

/ˈfinɪks/ (US) · /fˈiːnɪks/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

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

## Definition

a magical bird from old stories that lives for hundreds of years. When it dies, it burns into ashes and then is born again as a young bird.

For teachers: a mythical bird of great longevity that cyclically regenerates or is otherwise born again. It typically dies in a show of flames and combustion, only to rise from its own ashes.

## Examples

- The legendary phoenix rose from the ashes of its own fire.
- In many stories, the phoenix represents hope because it can start a new life after a disaster.
- The city's rapid reconstruction after the Great Fire was likened to the rise of a phoenix, symbolising an indomitable spirit that refuses to be extinguished by catastrophe.

## Usage notes

- When referring to the specific mythological creature, it is often capitalised as a proper noun.

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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.