Mermaid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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mermaid
[ˈmɜːrmeɪd ]
Definition
underwater creature
A mermaid is a legendary aquatic creature with the upper body of a female human and the tail of a fish. Mermaids are often depicted in folklore as beautiful and enchanting beings, capable of luring sailors with their mesmerizing voices and appearance.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mermaid |
Use in general discussions about mythical sea creatures that are half-human and half-fish.
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| siren |
Use when referring to dangerous, captivating sea creatures from Greek mythology that lure sailors to their doom with their singing. This term has a negative connotation.
|
| nymph |
Use when referring to nature spirits or mythical female beings associated with nature, often found in Greek and Roman mythology.
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| sea maiden |
Use as an alternative term for a mermaid, usually in poetic or literary contexts.
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Examples of usage
- They believed they saw a mermaid sitting on a rock combing her hair.
- The sailors were captivated by the mermaid's graceful movements.
Translations
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Origin of 'mermaid'
The concept of mermaids dates back to ancient mythology and folklore from various cultures around the world. Stories of mermaid-like creatures can be found in the folklore of the Greeks, Romans, and many other civilizations. Mermaids have been a popular subject in art, literature, and folklore for centuries, often symbolizing beauty, mystery, and the allure of the sea.