Definition: Myrtilos was a son of Hermes and the charioteer of King Oinomaus of Pisa. Oinomaus had a daughter named Hippodamia with whom Myrtilos may have been in love. Suitors of Hippodamia had to race against Oinomaus. If they lost, their heads would be taken. After 12 men had died, Pelops son of Tantalus decided to try his luck. With the connivance of Myrtilos, possibly persuaded by Hippodamia, the chariot of Oinomaus was sabotaged. Pelops may have promised Myrtilos half his kingdom. As Oinomaus lay dying he recognized Myrtilos' treachery and cursed him. Pelops fulfilled Oinomaus' curse by killing Myrtilos. As he lay dying, Myrtilos cursed Pelops and his family. Hermes fulfilled the curse of his son Myrtilos.
Alternate Spellings: Myrtilus
Examples:
Myrtilos loosened the lynchpins in the quadriga of his master King Oinomaus.
