The Greeks used the proverb "Tantalean punishment" (Ancient Greek: Ταντάλειοι τιμωρίαι: Tantáleioi timōríai) in reference to those who have good things but are not permitted to enjoy them.

His name and punishment are also the source of the English word tantalize, meaning to torment with the sight of something desired but out of reach ; tease by arousing expectations that are repeatedly disappointed