409–410
Socrates
Socrates. The word month (μείς) would be properly pronounced μείης, from μειοῦσθαι, to grow less, and I think the stars (ἄστερα) get their name from ἀστραπή (lightning). But ἀστραπή, because it turns our eyes upwards (τὰ ὦπα ἀναστρέθει), would be called ἀναστρωπή, which is now pronounced more prettily ἀστραπή.
15
Hermogenes
Hermogenes. And what of πῦρ (fire) and ὕδωρ (water)?
Socrates
Socrates. Πῦρ is too much for me. It must be that either the muse of Euthyphro has deserted me or this is a very difficult word. Now just note the contrivance I introduce in all cases like this which are too much for me.
Hermogenes
Hermogenes. What contrivance?
Socrates
Socrates. I will tell you. Answer me; can you tell the reason of the word πῦρ?
Hermogenes
Hermogenes. Not I, by Zeus.
20
Socrates
Socrates. See what I suspect about it. I know that many Greeks, especially those who are subject to the barbarians, have adopted many foreign words.
Hermogenes
Hermogenes. What of that?
Socrates
Socrates. If we should try to demonstrate the fitness of those words in accordance with the Greek language, and not in accordance with the language from which they are derived, you know we should get into trouble.
Hermogenes
Hermogenes. Naturally.
Socrates
Socrates. Well, this word πῦρ is probably foreign; for it is difficult to connect it with the Greek language, and besides, the Phrygians have the same word, only slightly altered. The same is the case with ὕδωρ (water), κύων (dog), and many other words.
Hermogenes
Hermogenes. Yes, that is true.
