Atlas cultural definition

In classical mythology, a Titan famous for his strength. After the defeat of the Titans by Zeus, Atlas was condemned to support the Earth and sky on his shoulders for eternity.

• Since the sixteenth century, pictures of Atlas and his burden have been used as decorations on maps. Accordingly, the word atlas is used for a book of maps.
• An “Atlas” or “atlas” is an incredibly strong person or one who carries an enormous burden.

A bound collection of maps. Atlases are named after the Greek god Atlas.