Pyrrhic

From Pyrrhus (318-272 BC), a king of Epirus whose forces sustained heavy losses in defeating the Romans.

• IPA^(key): /ˈpɪɹɪk/

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Pyrrhic (comparative more Pyrrhic, superlative most Pyrrhic)

1. (not comparable) Of or relating to Pyrrhus (319/318–272 BC), Greek general and statesman.

   The Pyrrhic army lost the Pyrrhic war.

2. Achieved at excessive cost.
   • 1993, Steven Berglas, Roy F. Baumeister, Your Own Worst Enemy: Understanding the Paradox, page 166

     Although this syndrome is thought to resemble patterns of Pyrrhic revenge

• Pyrrhic victory