oedipal

/ˈɛdɪpəl/
adjective
  1. Relating to the Oedipus complex, a psychoanalytic concept involving a child's unconscious feelings of desire for the opposite-sex parent and rivalry with the same-sex parent.
    • Some literary critics see oedipal themes in the character's relationship with his father.
    • Freud's theory of oedipal conflict remains controversial among modern therapists.
    • The psychologist explained the oedipal stage of development in children.
  2. Relating to the Greek myth of Oedipus, who unknowingly killed his father and married his mother.
    • The play retells the oedipal story of fate and tragedy.
    • The artist's painting depicts the oedipal moment of discovery.
    • Oedipal themes appear in many ancient Greek dramas.
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