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Necromancer: meaning, definitions and examples

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necromancer

 

[ˈnɛkrəˌmænsər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

dark magic user

A necromancer is a sorcerer who practices the dark art of necromancy, which involves communicating with the dead and raising them from their graves. Necromancers are often depicted as sinister figures with the power to control undead beings.

Synonyms

sorcerer, warlock, wizard.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
necromancer

This term is used when referring to a person who practices magic involving communication with the dead. It often has a negative or eerie connotation.

  • The necromancer summoned spirits from the underworld.
  • Villagers feared the old man, believing he was a necromancer.
sorcerer

A general term for someone who practices magic. It does not necessarily have a negative connotation and can be used in various fantasy settings.

  • The sorcerer cast a powerful spell to protect the kingdom.
  • Legends spoke of a wise sorcerer who lived in the mountains.
wizard

Commonly used to describe a person with magical abilities, often depicted as wise and skilled in magic. This term is neutral or positive and widely popular in fantasy media.

  • The wizard helped the hero on their quest with his wisdom and magic.
  • Young students studied under the great wizard at the academy.
warlock

Typically used to describe a male practitioner of dark or forbidden magic. This term often carries a sinister or malevolent tone.

  • The warlock plotted to take over the world with his dark magic.
  • She avoided the warlock's tower, knowing the dangers within.

Examples of usage

  • The necromancer summoned an army of zombies to do his bidding.
  • She sought the help of a necromancer to speak with her deceased loved ones.
  • The villagers feared the necromancer's power over life and death.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from the Greek 'nekros' meaning dead and 'manteia' meaning divination.
  • It entered the English language around the late 14th century, often associated with dark magic.

History

  • Practices similar to necromancy were found in ancient Egyptian rituals, where priests communicated with the dead for guidance.
  • During the Middle Ages, necromancy was often linked to witchcraft and was outlawed, resulting in many trials.

Pop Culture

  • Necromancers are popular characters in fantasy literature, such as in 'The Wheel of Time' series, where they have magical powers over life and death.
  • Video games like 'Diablo' and 'World of Warcraft' feature necromancers, allowing players to summon the undead.

Mythology

  • In ancient Greece, Orpheus was known for his ability to charm the spirits of the dead, making him an early figure resembling a necromancer.
  • Many cultures have myths involving shamans or priests who communicate with ancestors or spirits to seek wisdom or comfort.

Literature

  • In classic literature, such as Shakespeare's 'Hamlet', themes of communication with the dead are explored, reflecting societal fascinations with necromancy.
  • The character of the necromancer often symbolizes the battle between life and death, appearing in works from Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' to modern fantasy novels.

Translations

Translations of the word "necromancer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 necromante

🇮🇳 तांत्रिक

🇩🇪 Nekromant

🇮🇩 nekromancer

🇺🇦 некромант

🇵🇱 nekromanta

🇯🇵 ネクロマンサー (nekromansā)

🇫🇷 nécromancien

🇪🇸 nigromante

🇹🇷 nekromans

🇰🇷 강령술사 (gangryeongsulsa)

🇸🇦 مستحضر الأرواح

🇨🇿 nekromant

🇸🇰 nekromant

🇨🇳 死灵法师 (sǐlíng fǎshī)

🇸🇮 nekromant

🇮🇸 dauðræður

🇰🇿 некромант

🇬🇪 ნეკრომანტი (nekromanti)

🇦🇿 nekromant

🇲🇽 nigromante

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,790 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.