Eponyms: From César Ritz to a ritzy hotel

An eponym is a word or expression derived from a proper noun. The English language is full of them! Think of the adjective ritzy, which comes from César Ritz (the founder of the famous Ritz hotels) or the Newfoundland dog, which takes its name from the Canadian island where it originated.

In the sentences below, choose the correct meaning of the eponym between square brackets.

After winning the 1500-metre race, the speed skater had to prepare for the 500 metres, which was his [Achilles heel].
I've been invited to my cousin's wedding. I hear that the groom is [an Adonis]!
All that's left to do is to put my [John Hancock] on the paperwork, and I'll be a homeowner!
Marie is [in the arms of Morpheus].
When I plan a project, I always take [Murphy's Law] into account.
In Canada, certain foods, such as milk, must be [pasteurized] before they can be sold.
She appreciates good food; you might describe her as [an epicure].
We have taken every precaution to ensure that this product is not contaminated with [salmonella].
My daughter has to wear a [leotard] to her ballet class.
The group responded by calling for [a boycott of] the conference.

Date modified: 2020-08-27

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Eponyms: From César Ritz to a ritzy hotel

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