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A dangerous rock on the Italian coast opposite the whirlpool Charybdis on the coast of Sicily. The passage between Scylla and Charybdis was formerly considered perilous; hence, the saying between Scylla and Charybdis signifies a great peril on either hand. quotations examples
I have never yet been able to steer my lovers through the Scylla of presence, or the Charybdis of absence.
1837, L[etitia] E[lizabeth] L[andon], “Chapter XII. Lady Marchmont’s Journal.”, in Ethel Churchill: Or, The Two Brides. […], volume III, London: Henry Colburn, […], page 85
(Greek mythology) A personification of said rock as a ravenous monster.
(Greek mythology) A princess, daughter of King Nisos of Megara, who fell in love with King Minos and betrayed her city to him. quotations
Ah cease rash Youth! desist e'er 'tis too late, / Fear the just Gods, and think of Scylla′s Fate!
1714, Alexander Pope, The Rape of the Lock, Canto III
(astronomy) The main belt asteroid 155 Scylla. examples