Shapeshifter: meaning, definitions and examples
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shapeshifter
[ ˈʃeɪpˌʃɪf.tər ]
fantasy character
A shapeshifter is a being or creature that has the ability to change its physical form or appearance at will. This concept is often found in folklore, mythology, and fiction, where such entities can transform into animals, other people, or inanimate objects. Shapeshifters are commonly depicted as cunning and deceptive, utilizing their powers for various purposes, sometimes for good, but often for malevolent reasons.
Synonyms
changer, metamorph, transformer
Examples of usage
- In many legends, the shapeshifter can turn into a wolf at night.
- The story features a shapeshifter who tricks travelers along their journey.
- The protagonist discovers they have shapeshifting abilities inherited from their ancestors.
Etymology
The term 'shapeshifter' is derived from the combination of 'shape' and 'shift'. The word 'shape' comes from the Old English 'sceap', which means 'form' or 'appearance'. The word 'shift' has roots in Old English 'scyftan', meaning 'to divide', 'to move', or 'to exchange'. The concept of beings that can alter their form can be traced back to various mythologies and folklore across the world, with examples appearing in Greek mythology, Native American legends, and various cultures around the globe. Over time, the notion has evolved in literature and pop culture, leading to depictions in fantasy and science fiction genres where shapeshifters play significant roles in storytelling.