moloch

• Nom désignant toute espèce de lézard du genre Moloch, caractérisé par un corps couvert d'épines et vivant dans les régions arides d'Australie.

A noun referring to any lizard of the genus Moloch, characterized by its spiny body and native to arid Australian regions.

1. Thorny devil lizardB2formalscientific

   Any spiny-bodied lizard of the genus Moloch, native to Australia, known for its camouflage and ant-eating diet.

   Moloch hérissé

   • The moloch lizard uses its spiny body to deter predators.
   • Researchers observed a moloch feeding on ants in the desert.
   • The thorny devil, also known as moloch, can absorb water through its skin.
   • A moloch's color changes depending on the temperature and its surroundings.

2. Pagan deity requiring sacrificeC1formal

   An ancient Ammonite god to whom children were allegedly sacrificed by fire, often referenced in biblical texts.

   Moloch, divinité païenne exigeant des sacrifices

   • Worship of Moloch was condemned by the prophets as an abomination.
   • The cult of Moloch demanded horrific offerings.
   • Archaeologists debate the extent of child sacrifice in Moloch rituals.
   • In literature, Moloch symbolizes absolute demands that destroy human life.

   Synonymesmolech

3. Metaphor for destructive powerC1formal

   Any oppressive system, institution, or force that demands extreme or cruel sacrifices.

   Moloch (force destructrice)

   • In modern discourse, the term 'Moloch' is used to describe an insatiable war machine.
   • The corporation became a Moloch, devouring the lives of its workers.
   • They saw the regime as a Moloch crushing individual freedoms.
   • The city's relentless growth felt like a Moloch consuming the countryside.

   Synonymesbehemothdevourerjuggernautleviathanmonsterogre