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Vampire Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vampire

[ˈvæmpaɪər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

legendary creature

A vampire is a mythical creature that is said to feed on the blood of the living. Vampires are often depicted as pale, nocturnal beings with fangs and the ability to transform into bats. They are commonly associated with immortality, supernatural powers, and a fear of sunlight.

Synonyms

bloodsucker, creature of the night, undead.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vampire

Used in general discussions about folklore or fictional stories about beings that drink blood. Often appears in Gothic literature, horror movies, and supernatural contexts.

  • Bram Stoker's 'Dracula' is a classic novel about a vampire.
  • The vampire emerged from the shadows, his fangs glistening.
bloodsucker

Carries a more negative connotation and is often used metaphorically to describe someone who takes advantage of others or drains their resources. In a literal sense, it refers to an organism that feeds on blood.

  • He's such a bloodsucker, always borrowing money and never paying it back.
  • Leeches are common bloodsuckers found in swamps.
undead

Refers to beings that are dead but have been reanimated. This term is broader than 'vampire' and includes zombies, mummies, and other reanimated beings in horror fiction.

  • The army of the undead approached the fortress, their eyes glowing eerily.
  • As an undead, he wandered the earth, neither fully alive nor completely dead.
creature of the night

Typically used to describe mythical or supernatural beings that are active at night. It is more poetic and can refer to various night-dwelling creatures, not just vampires.

  • The werewolf, like many creatures of the night, roams the streets under the full moon.
  • She felt like a creature of the night, coming alive only when the sun set.

Examples of usage

  • Count Dracula is one of the most famous vampires in literature.
  • The vampire's bite is said to turn its victims into vampires themselves.
  • In some cultures, people believed that placing garlic near doorways could ward off vampires.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The belief in vampires dates back to ancient cultures, including the Greeks and Romans, who had myths about blood-drinking spirits.
  • The term 'vampire' entered the English language in the early 18th century, influenced by Eastern European folklore.
  • Count Dracula, created by Bram Stoker in 1897, solidified the modern image of vampires as charismatic yet terrifying beings.

Pop Culture

  • Movies like 'Nosferatu' and 'Dracula' helped shape the image of vampires as mysterious figures with a gothic allure.
  • Vampires have evolved in popular culture, leading to different portrayals in series like 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' and 'Twilight', appealing to diverse audiences.
  • The 'vampire' genre has sparked numerous books, comics, and TV shows, making it a lasting fascination in entertainment.

Psychological Aspects

  • Vampires often symbolize fears of mortality, the unknown, and the darker aspects of human nature.
  • The allure of vampires can be connected to themes of forbidden desire and the struggle for power in relationships.
  • Many people find vampire tales captivating because they explore complex emotions, such as love, betrayal, and survival.

Literature

  • The first known vampire story is 'The Vampyre' by John Polidori, published in 1819, which introduced the aristocratic vampire trope.
  • Poets like Lord Byron contributed to vampire lore, intertwining romance and horror, influencing the Gothic literary tradition.
  • Vampires in literature often challenge societal norms, reflecting themes such as isolation, death, and the human condition.

Folklore and Beliefs

  • Various cultures have unique interpretations of vampires; for example, the Strigoi in Romania or the Chupacabra in Latin America.
  • Some folklore suggests that vampires can be warded off with garlic, holy water, or mirrors, reflecting cultural superstitions.
  • The rituals and beliefs around vampires often served as explanations for unexplained deaths in pre-scientific societies.

Origin of 'vampire'

The word 'vampire' originated from Eastern European folklore, particularly from Slavic and Romanian traditions. The concept of vampires has existed for centuries, with variations in different cultures. The modern image of vampires, as popularized in literature and film, has evolved from these traditional beliefs.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,706, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.