CultureAugust 16, 2026

psychopomp

SY-kuh-pomp

Definition

A mythological figure or entity responsible for escorting the souls of the dead from the world of the living to the afterlife.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'psyche' (soul) and 'pompos' (conductor or guide). It entered English in the 17th century to describe divine or supernatural beings tasked with guiding the souls of the recently deceased.

In the news

In the article, the term describes how internet users reimagined Paddington Bear as a comfort figure helping deceased individuals, including the Queen, transition into the afterlife.

Race hate means 'Paddington politics' Scottish professor is now 'scared to speak'

Read the full article ↗

The Herald

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