Definition
A figure from Greek mythology condemned to eternal torment in the underworld, standing in water that recedes when he tries to drink and beneath fruit he cannot reach; metaphorically, any person or thing that tempts with something perpetually out of reach.
Example Usage
For the struggling entrepreneur, venture capital funding was a Tantalus—always advertised but never quite accessible.
Origin
From Greek mythology, possibly derived from 'tantalizo' (to torment); the mythological figure was punished for either serving his son's flesh to the gods or for theft, depending on the version.
Fun Fact
The word 'tantalize' derives directly from Tantalus, preserving the mythological image of temptation in everyday language.
Related Terms
Translate This Term
See “Tantalus” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
Try the Translator