English

Etymology

From Middle English, Latin and originally Greek, although possibly of a different origin. The Greeks said the word meant breastless: a- (not) + mazos (breast).

Proper noun

Amazon (plural Amazons)

1. (Greek mythology) a member of a mythical race of female warriors inhabiting the Black Sea area
2. a female warrior

Derived terms

• Amazonian

Further Reading

• Wikipedia article on the Amazons

Etymology

Spanish, Río Amazonas. It is common belief that the Spanish explorer Francisco de Orellana fought a battle against a tribe of Tapuya savages, in which the women fought alongside the men. He no doubt derived the name from the Amazons in Greek mythology.

Adjective

1. relating to the area around the Amazon River in South America (e.g. the Amazon Basin, the Amazon Rainforest); or referring to the river itself, The Amazon

Further Reading

• Wikipedia article on the Amazon River

Latin

Noun

amazon, -onis f

1. an Amazon
2. a female warrior