Demon Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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demon
[ˈdiːmən ]
Definitions
supernatural
A supernatural being, typically associated with evil, prevalent in religion, folklore, and mythology.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| demon |
A supernatural being often associated with evil, torment, or wickedness; used in mythology, religion, and fiction.
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| devil |
Commonly referred to as the primary antagonist in many religions, particularly Christianity and Islam; also used metaphorically to describe someone extremely wicked or malignant.
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| evil spirit |
A general term used for malevolent supernatural entities believed to cause harm or misfortune; used across various cultures and beliefs.
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| demoniac |
Referring to someone or something that is possessed by a demon or exhibits demonic behavior; often used in a dramatic or intense context.
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Examples of usage
- The villagers believed that the demon was responsible for the recent misfortunes.
- The demon was summoned by the sorcerer to carry out his evil deeds.
figurative
A person, habit, or obsession regarded as evil, cruel, or wicked.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| demon |
Used to describe an evil spirit or force, often in supernatural or horror settings.
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Examples of usage
- His addiction to gambling had become a demon that haunted him day and night.
- The fear of failure was a demon that paralyzed her from taking risks.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Representation
- In various cultures, demons take on different forms, from mischievous beings in Japanese folklore to malevolent spirits in Western traditions.
- Literature often depicts demons, such as in Dante's 'Inferno', illustrating the consequences of sin through these creatures.
Psychology
- In psychology, 'demons' symbolize inner struggles or personal fears, often referred to in therapeutic settings when discussing anxiety and depression.
- Carl Jung referred to these 'demons' as aspects of the unconscious that should be understood rather than feared.
Film and Media
- Hollywood horror films frequently utilize demons as main antagonists, often portrayed as entities that possess human characters.
- The movie 'The Exorcist' brought the idea of demonic possession into mainstream culture, influencing how demons are viewed today.
Religious Beliefs
- Many religions contain beliefs about demons, often categorizing them as beings opposed to divine forces or representing evil.
- In Christianity, demons are often viewed as fallen angels, reflecting the struggle between good and evil.
Origin of 'demon'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'daimon', which originally meant 'spirit' or 'divine power', showing a more neutral view.
- In ancient times, demons were not always seen as evil; they represented forces of nature and could be benevolent.
The word 'demon' originated from the Latin word 'daemon', which was derived from the Greek 'daimon', meaning 'divine power' or 'fate'. In ancient Greek religion and philosophy, a daimon was a supernatural being that acted as a spirit guide or intermediary between humans and the gods. Over time, the concept of demons evolved to include malevolent or evil spirits in various cultures and religions.