πλάσμα
plásma
G4110 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A thing shaped or molded, especially something formed by hand or crafted by a maker; in broader contexts, anything that is the result of shaping, forming, or creative action. In Greek literature, used of creations of a craftsman, potter, or divine agent (as in living beings created by a deity).
Semantic Range
thing molded, creature formed, crafted object, shaped figure, product of creative action, fabrication (in a metaphorical sense)
Root / Etymology
From the verb πλάσσω (to mold, form), with the suffix -μα denoting the result of an action; thus, πλάσμα means 'that which is formed or molded.'
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical Greek, πλάσμα often referred to a physical object made by an artisan, particularly a statue, image, or any crafted item. In philosophical or literary contexts, it could describe creatures or beings fashioned by a god, i.e., creation as a product of craftsmanship or divine formation. In the Septuagint and New Testament, the term is rare, but when present, it typically denotes something or someone formed by God (as in a human being). In post-biblical and Hellenistic literature, it could be applied metaphorically to inventions or figments of imagination (a fabrication or fiction). Standard English translations as 'thing formed' are literal but may miss the nuance of intentional shaping or artistry inherent in the term.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from πλάσσω; something moulded:--thing formed.
Root Family
πλάσμα (plasma) — that which is formed, molded thing, shaped creation
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4110-01 |
πλάσμα | plasma | N NOM N SG |
thing-formed | formed thing | formed thing | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4110-01 |
Romans 9:20 | πλάσμα | plasma | N NOM N SG |
thing-formed | formed thing | formed thing |