Misanthropos
/mɪsˈanθrəˌpɒs/ /mɪzˈanθrəˌpɒs/ /mɪsˈanθrəpəs/Now rare
noun
(A name given to) a person who displays characteristics reminiscent of the semi-legendary misanthrope Timon of Athens (also called Timon Misanthropos); a misanthrope.
- The character of Timon, originally known from Plutarch, was popularized by Shakespeare..
Origin
Late 16th century; earliest use found in Thomas North (1535–?1603), translator. From ancient Greek μισάνθρωπος (adjective) hating mankind, in Hellenistic Greek also specifically the name given to Timon of Athens in Plutarch's Lives (Antonius 70) from μισο- + ἄνθρωπος human being. Compare classical Latin mīsanthrōpos (Cicero, of Timon), post-classical Latin misanthropus.