The Greek Meaning Behind ‘Arctic’ And ‘Antarctic’ Is Surprisingly Funny

Have you ever wondered about the difference between the Arctic and Antarctica? Many people find it confusing, but there’s a simple way to remember which is which – and it’s hidden right there in the names.

One common way people distinguish between the two regions is by the animals that inhabit them. Polar bears are known to live in the Arctic, located in the Northern Hemisphere, while penguins thrive in the Antarctic, situated in the Southern Hemisphere. The distressing images of polar bears clinging to diminishing ice serve as a reminder that they reside in the Arctic, an ocean covered in ice and surrounded by land, while the Antarctic is a continent covered in a continental glacier.

However, an even easier way to remember the distinction is by delving into the etymology of the words. The word ‘Arctic’ is derived from ‘Arktos’, the Greek term for ‘bear’. On the other hand, the prefix ‘Anti-‘ in ‘Antarctic’ means ‘opposite’, essentially defining a whole continent by its lack of bears.

The name ‘Arctic’ may have been inspired by the actual bears in the region, or it could be linked to the constellation Ursa Major, known as the ‘great bear’ in Latin, which is the largest constellation in the Northern sky. Regardless, if you ever spot a bear, whether it’s a polar bear or a great bear, you’ll know you’re in the Arctic. Conversely, if you find yourself feeling disappointed about the absence of bears in your location, you’re probably in the Antarctic, or perhaps about to encounter a well-camouflaged bear in the Arctic.

It’s fascinating how the etymology of these words sheds light on the geographical and zoological characteristics of the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Next time you find yourself pondering the distinction between the two, just remember the Greek roots of ‘Arctic’ and the ‘opposite’ nature of ‘Antarctic’.