In Greek mythology, Thoosa (Ancient Greek: Θόωσα, transliterated Thóōsa) is a minor sea‑nymph (often classified as a Phorcid or Haliad). She is described as the daughter of the primordial sea god Phorcys; some later sources also list the sea goddess Ceto as her mother. Thoosa’s primary mythological role is as one of the consorts of Poseidon, with whom she bore the Cyclops Polyphemus.
The earliest literary reference to Thoosa appears in Homer's Odyssey (Book I, lines 70‑72), where she is named as the mother of Polyphemus. The name “Thoosa” is thought to derive from the Greek word θοος (thoos), meaning “swift” or “swift runner,” suggesting an association with rapid currents or the swiftness of the sea.
Because Thoosa is mentioned only briefly in ancient texts and does not play a major role in surviving mythic narratives, most information about her derives from later compilations such as lexica, scholiastic comments, and modern encyclopedic entries (e.g., Wikipedia). She is occasionally included among the Phorcides—a group of sea‑nymphs who are daughters of Phorcys (and sometimes Ceto) and siblings to various other mythological creatures such as the Gorgons and Graeae.
Key points
- Parentage: Daughter of Phorcys; some traditions add Ceto as mother.
- Consort: Poseidon, god of the sea.
- Offspring: Polyphemus, the one‑eyed Cyclops encountered by Odysseus.
- Etymology: Name linked to Greek thoos (“swift”).
Beyond these brief mentions, there are no extensive myths or cultic worship associated with Thoosa; she is primarily a genealogical figure within the larger tapestry of Greek mythological genealogy.
