Legend Meaning
Legend Definition & Usage
A traditional story or narrative, often involving heroic deeds, mythical creatures, or supernatural events, passed down through generations, typically regarded as historical but with elements of fiction or exaggeration.
Examples
- "The legend of King Arthur has been told for centuries across the world."
- "She grew up hearing the legend of the brave warrior who defeated a dragon."
- "In many cultures, legends about gods and heroes form a core part of their mythology."
- "The story of Robin Hood is a legend that continues to inspire many."
- "He was fascinated by the ancient legends of the indigenous people."
A person or thing that is extremely famous or admired, especially one with extraordinary accomplishments or qualities that make them stand out over time.
Examples
- "She became a legend in the world of tennis after winning her fifth Grand Slam."
- "His daring exploits as a firefighter made him a legend in the community."
- "The musician was a legend, and her music still influences new artists today."
- "The football player's legendary status was solidified after his record-breaking season."
- "The actor became a legend after starring in numerous iconic films."
A key or explanatory table on a map or diagram, showing the meaning of symbols or features.
Examples
- "Before using the map, make sure to review the legend to understand the symbols."
- "The legend on the city map helped me identify landmarks easily."
- "A good map always includes a detailed legend to clarify its markings."
- "The legend on this treasure map includes symbols for hidden caves and ancient ruins."
- "Without the legend, the map would be impossible to interpret."
Cultural Context
Legends have been integral to human storytelling for centuries. They often carry moral lessons, cultural values, and reflect the collective imagination of societies. From Greek myths to the legends of the American Wild West, these stories shape cultural identities and serve to preserve history through narrative. The concept of a 'legend' has evolved, encompassing not just ancient myths but modern-day figures who are revered for their extraordinary contributions.
The Legend of the Last Dragon
Story
The Legend of the Last Dragon
In a small village nestled between towering mountains, there was a story that every child grew up hearing — the legend of the last dragon. The villagers spoke of a great beast, once feared for its fiery breath and immense strength, but now only whispered about in the evenings, by the glow of a dying campfire. Sofia, a young woman with a spirit as fierce as the dragon in the legend, had always wondered if the tales were true. Her grandmother, who was the village's oldest resident, told her that the dragon had once protected their land from invaders. But as the invaders were defeated, the dragon vanished, leaving behind nothing but a few scattered scales and an ancient map that no one could fully decipher. One evening, as Sofia wandered through the forests beyond the village, she stumbled upon a hidden cave, and within it, a weathered piece of the dragon’s scale. The scale glowed faintly in the dark, just as the legends had described. As she touched it, she felt a rush of memories flood her mind — images of the dragon soaring high above the mountains, protecting the villagers with an unseen power. The legend wasn’t just a story; it was a memory embedded in the land itself. Returning to the village, Sofia shared her discovery. The elders, upon hearing her tale, nodded solemnly. They had always believed in the power of the legend, but it was the courage of one young woman that brought it back to life. The legend of the last dragon was no longer just a tale told around the fire. It was a symbol of the village’s enduring spirit — a reminder that the greatest heroes are often those who remain in the shadows of history, waiting to be remembered. As Sofia became known as the Keeper of the Legend, she realized that legends aren’t just about the past — they are the stories that shape the future.
