ophelia

/ɒˈfɪliə/

Definitions

1. noun

A female given name, derived from the Greek ‘Ophelis’, meaning ‘help’, or from the Hebrew ‘Ophel’, meaning ‘help’, or ‘divine help’.

“The tragic heroine Ophelia from Shakespeare’s Hamlet is a famous literary character.”

2. proper noun

The protagonist of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, known for her descent into madness and eventual death.

“The character of Ophelia has been portrayed by numerous actresses in film adaptations of Hamlet.”

3. adjective

Describing someone or something that is melancholic or romantic.

“The poet’s ophelian verse captured the beauty of a dying love.”

4. adjective

Describing a musical style characterized by melancholy and romance, often associated with Chopin’s music.

“The piano piece was a beautiful example of ophelian music, evoking feelings of sadness and longing.”

Synonyms

  • melancholy
  • romantic
  • tragic

Antonyms

  • hopeful
  • joyful