Definitions

1. noun

a man who falls in love with a statue he has made, used figuratively to describe someone who idealizes a partner or lover, often to an unhealthy or unattainable degree.

“The artist became a modern-day Pygmalion when he fell deeply in love with his creation.”

2. proper noun

a king of Cyprus in Greek mythology, known for his love of the statue of Galatea, which he sculpted and was brought to life by the goddess Aphrodite.

“In the play ‘Pygmalion’, the characters explore the theme of the mythical Pygmalion’s love for the statue Galatea.”

3. noun

a person who gives a person a new identity, often changing their behavior, mannerisms, or speech patterns.

“The social worker became a Pygmalion for the troubled youth, helping him transform into a confident young man.”