Synonyms for

Hydra

Verb / ˈhaɪdrʌ / Another word for hydra — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a freshwater polyp with many tentacles that can regenerate when cut into pieces

Synonyms & similar words

hydra snake polyp cnidarian jellyfish coral sponge medusa zoophyte coelenterate invertebrate animal creature organism

Synonyms by register

Formal

multiplicity complexity proliferation

Informal

mess nightmare headache

Literary

chimaera proteus

Antonyms

unity simplicity single monolith solitary oneness

Common collocations

  • many-headed hydra
  • fight a hydra
  • hydra-headed problem
  • like a hydra
  • the hydra effect
  • a hydra of issues

Word family

noun hydra
adjective hydra-headed

Usage note

The term 'hydra' is often used metaphorically to describe a problem that is difficult to solve because new issues arise as quickly as old ones are dealt with. It derives from the multi-headed serpent in Greek mythology.

Example sentences

  1. The hydra has many tentacles.
  2. The hydra can regenerate when cut into pieces.
  3. I saw a hydra in the pond.
  4. The hydra is a type of polyp.
  5. The hydra is a freshwater animal.

Quotes

  • The hydra's many heads make it difficult to defeat.
  • The hydra was a fearsome creature in Greek mythology.
  • The hydra is a fascinating organism with unique abilities.

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