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λύκος

lýkos

G3074 noun

SILEX Entry

Definition

Wolf; a large wild canid known for predatory behavior. In literal contexts, refers to the animal (Canis lupus). Figuratively, can describe persons perceived as dangerous, predatory, or threatening to a community, especially in the context of deception or concealed hostility. The primary meaning is the animal itself, with metaphorical usage signifying a person who threatens the wellbeing or cohesion of a group, especially through deceptive or predatory means.

Semantic Range

wolf (animal), predatory or dangerous person (figurative), symbol of treachery or threat to a group

Root / Etymology

From Greek λυκ- (lyk-), meaning 'wolf'. The precise etymology is uncertain, though it may be connected through ancient Indo-European roots; associations with λευκός ('white') are speculative and debated among scholars. The word occurs in classical and Koine Greek.

Historical & Contextual Notes

In classical Greek literature, λύκος primarily designates the literal wolf, an animal often referenced with connotations of danger, cunning, and destructiveness. In Hellenistic and Koine Greek, including the Septuagint and New Testament, λύκος maintains its literal sense but is frequently employed metaphorically. In the New Testament (e.g., Matt 7:15; Luke 10:3), λύκος metaphorically characterizes individuals (often outsiders or false teachers) who threaten the stability of the group (symbolized as a flock). The metaphor draws on common ancient perceptions of wolves as natural enemies of shepherded animals. While English translations often simply use 'wolf,' this may obscure cultural associations of lawlessness, danger, and predation. The word is not used to denote a specific people group or religious function. Its metaphorical application is common in both Jewish and broader Greco-Roman discourse. There is no technical or theological usage distinct to Judean, Israelite, or Christian communities; the image functions as a culturally-shared symbol of threat or predation.

Translation Consistency

primary "wolf" 2 occurrences

The primary and most natural rendering is the animal name “wolf,” which also easily covers the figurative sense of a predatory or treacherous person. It is simple, common English and can be inflected to plural or possessive forms as needed (wolf, wolves).

Alternatives (4 occurrences):
"wolves" (4x)

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

perhaps akin to the base of λευκός (from the whitish hair); a wolf:--wolf.

Root Family

λύκος (lykos) — wolf, to be predatory, to threaten

Root λυκ- wolf, to be predatory, to threaten

Word Forms

3 distinct forms

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G3074-02 λύκων lukon N GEN M PL wolves of wolves of wolves 3
G3074-01 λύκοι lukoi N NOM M PL wolves wolves wolves 2
G3074-03 λύκος lukos N NOM M SG wolf wolf wolf 1

Occurrences in Scripture

6 occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G3074-01 Matthew 7:15 λύκοι lukoi N NOM M PL wolves wolves wolves
G3074-02 Matthew 10:16 λύκων lukon N GEN M PL wolves of wolves of wolves
G3074-02 Luke 10:3 λύκων lukon N GEN M PL wolves of wolves of wolves
G3074-02 John 10:12 λύκον lukon N ACC M SG wolf of wolves wolf
G3074-03 John 10:12 λύκος lukos N NOM M SG wolf wolf wolf
G3074-01 Acts 20:29 λύκοι lukoi N NOM M PL wolves wolves wolves
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