A muse can refer to different things depending on the context. Here are some possible meanings:

• In ancient Greek religion and mythology, the Muses were the inspirational goddesses of literature, science, and the arts. They were considered the source of the knowledge embodied in the poetry, lyric songs, and myths that were related orally for centuries in ancient Greek culture. There were originally three Boeotian Muses, and later nine Olympian Muses.
• In modern figurative usage, a muse is a literal person or supernatural force that serves as someones source of artistic inspiration. An artist or poet about to begin work would call on a particular Muse for inspiration, and a poem itself might begin with such a call.
• As a verb, to muse is to consider something thoughtfully. If you muse about something, youre giving it serious thought.
• A muse can also refer to a person, especially a woman, who is a source of artistic inspiration. Often filmmakers talk about a certain actor being a muse, meaning the actor inspired a movie. Writers, painters, musicians, and other artists have muses.

In summary, a muse can be a goddess from ancient Greek mythology, a source of artistic inspiration, or an act of deep thought.