Meaning & use
sphynxes
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“sphynxes” is a form of “sphinx”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.
Meanings
nounplural
Plural of sphinx: mythical creatures with a lion's body and a human head, or the large statues of them in Egypt.
Grammar: This is the plural form; the singular is 'sphinx'.
Patterns
- the sphynxes of Egypt
- ancient sphynxes
The ancient Egyptians built many sphynxes to guard temples and tombs.
In Greek mythology, sphynxes would ask travelers a riddle before letting them pass.
The museum exhibit featured small statues of sphynxes from different cultures.
nounplural
Plural of sphinx: a breed of hairless cat with wrinkled skin.
Grammar: The singular is 'sphynx' (or 'sphinx') for the cat breed.
Patterns
- Sphynx cats
- a pair of sphynxes
Sphynxes are known for their lack of fur and their warm skin.
She owns two sphynxes and a regular tabby cat.
Word forms
| singular | sphinx |
|---|---|
| alternative plural | sphinxes |
Common combinations
- ancient sphynxes
- The tour guide explained the history of the ancient sphynxes.
- the Great Sphinx
- The Great Sphinx of Giza is the most famous of all sphynxes.
- Sphynx cat
- Sphynx cats, or sphynxes, need regular baths because they have no fur.
- statues of sphynxes
- The avenue was lined with statues of sphynxes.
Synonyms and how they differ
- sphinxes
- The more common plural form; 'sphynxes' is a less frequent variant.
Word family
- sphinx noun
- Singular form: a mythical creature or statue with a lion's body and human head.
- sphinxlike adjective
- Mysterious and difficult to understand, like a sphinx.
Commonly confused: sphynxes or sphinxes?
sphynxes vs sphinxes
This is the more usual plural. 'Sphynxes' is an alternative spelling, but some style guides prefer 'sphinxes'.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'sphynxes' correctly?
Choose one answer.
Option 0 is correct because 'sphynxes' is a plural noun and fits with 'a collection of'. Option 1 is wrong because 'a' requires a singular noun ('a sphinx'). Option 2 is wrong because 'is' requires a singular subject. Option 3 is wrong because 'a' cannot be followed by a plural noun.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “sphynxes”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.