First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
labyrinth
noun lab·y·rinth \ˈla-bə-ˌrin(t)th, -rən(t)th\
: a place that has many confusing paths or passages
: something that is extremely complicated or difficult to understand
Full Definition of LABYRINTH
1
a : a place constructed of or full of intricate passageways and blind alleys b : a maze (as in a garden) formed by paths separated by high hedges
2
: something extremely complex or tortuous in structure, arrangement, or character : intricacy, perplexity <a labyrinth of swamps and channels> <guided them through the labyrinths of city life — Paul Blanshard>
3
: a tortuous anatomical structure; especially : the internal ear or its bony or membranous part
See labyrinth defined for English-language learners
See labyrinth defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of LABYRINTH
Middle English laborintus, from Latin labyrinthus, from Greek labyrinthos
Related to LABYRINTH
- Synonyms
- maze, rabbit warren, warren
LABYRINTH Defined for Kids
labyrinth
noun lab·y·rinth \ˈla-bə-ˌrinth\
Definition of LABYRINTH for Kids
: a place that has many confusing paths and passages
Medical Dictionary
labyrinth
noun lab·y·rinth \ˈlab-ə-ˌrin(t)th, -rən(t)th\
Medical Definition of LABYRINTH
: a tortuous anatomical structure; especially : the inner ear or its bony or membranous part—see bony labyrinth, membranous labyrinth
Learn More About LABYRINTH
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: labyrinthalPrevious Word in the Dictionary: laburnumAll Words Near: labyrinth
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up labyrinth? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).