Houyhnhnm

usgb/ˈhwɪnəm/
noun

A fictional horse-like creature in Jonathan Swift's novel Gulliver's Travels.

In Gulliver's Travels, the wise and rational houyhnhnms illustrate the folly of human nature.
Visual representation of "houyhnhnm" - A fictional horse-like creature in Jonathan Swift's novel Gulliver's Travels.

Often appears as...

  • rational houyhnhnm
  • houyhnhnm society

Usage tips

Formal

Literary

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "houyhnhnm"
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Pronunciation Clue

Pronounced 'hwi-nim,' like 'win' with 'h' at the start and 'nim' at the end.

Illustration for Pronunciation Clue
I had difficulty saying 'houyhnhnm' until I practiced the sound.
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Literary Reference

Used specifically in discussing 'Gulliver's Travels' or comparing to pure rational beings.

Illustration for Literary Reference
Her leadership style was as measured as that of a houyhnhnm.
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Symbolism

Houyhnhnms symbolize an ideal of reason beyond human attainment.

Illustration for Symbolism
In an argument, he is as uncompromising and logical as a houyhnhnm.
Visual representation of the word "Houyhnhnm"

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