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Original · left

Epic poetry

A long narrative poem about heroic deeds, such as the Iliad, the Odyssey or Beowulf.

First in use: ancient / pre-modern
Duplicate · right

Epic Games

The American video game and software company behind Fortnite and the Unreal Engine.

First in use: c. 1991

Epic / Epic poetry / Epic Games

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Homer, meet Fortnite.

Which meaning of Epic is the original, and which one is the duplicate riding on its name? Epic poetry came first (ancient / pre-modern). Epic Games arrived in 1991. The data below shows which one owns the word now.

Wikipedia pageviews since 2015

Epic poetryEpic Games
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Duplicate's share of attention

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The case for each meaning

Sourced definitions, usage stats and quotes

Original · ancient / pre-modern

Epic poetry

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Duplicate · c. 1991

Epic Games

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