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Midas

noun

Mi·​das ˈmī-dəs How to pronounce Midas (audio)
: a legendary Phrygian king who is given the power of turning everything he touches to gold

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from Greek

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Midas was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing Midas

Rhymes for Midas

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Browse Nearby Words

mid-american
Midas
Midas's-ear
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Cite this Entry

“Midas.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Midas. Accessed 1 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on Midas

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Midas

Last Updated: - Definition revised
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