Warlock: meaning, definitions and examples

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warlock

[ˈwɔː.lɑːk ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

fantasy role-playing games

A warlock is a male witch, sorcerer, or magician in fantasy role-playing games.

Synonyms

magician, sorcerer, wizard.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
warlock	Warlock is often used to describe a male practitioner of dark magic or witchcraft. This term carries a negative connotation and is typically associated with someone who has made a pact with demons or evil forces. The villagers feared the warlock who lived in the haunted forest. He was known as a powerful warlock with dark intentions.
sorcerer	Sorcerer refers to a person, typically male, who uses magic, often of a more mystical or powerful nature. The term doesn't necessarily imply good or evil but does suggest a high level of power and knowledge. The old sorcerer knew spells that could alter the fabric of reality. He sought the advice of a renowned sorcerer to solve his dire problem.
magician	Magician is generally used to describe someone who performs magic tricks for entertainment or someone with magical abilities that aren't necessarily tied to good or evil. This word is neutral and often related to illusionists. The magician amazed the audience with his disappearing act. As a magician, she had a vast knowledge of spells for every occasion.
wizard	Wizard primarily refers to a person who uses magic, often depicted as wise, knowledgeable, and usually good-natured. Wizards are often featured in fantasy stories as mentors or powerful heroes. The legendary wizard helped the hero on his quest. In the world of magic, the old wizard was respected by all.

Examples of usage

The powerful warlock cast a spell to defeat his enemies.
The warlock summoned a dragon to aid him in battle.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

historical context

In historical context, a warlock was believed to be a man who practiced witchcraft, often with malevolent intent.

Synonyms

sorcerer, witch, wizard.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
warlock	Typically used to describe a male practitioner of dark magic or sorcery. It often carries a negative connotation. The warlock cast a powerful spell to summon dark spirits
sorcerer	Refers to a male spellcaster who uses magical powers, often in a more neutral or traditional fantasy setting. The sorcerer used his ancient knowledge to brew a potion that could heal any wound
witch	Generally used for a female who practices magic, often associated with folk tales, Halloween, or Wiccan traditions. It can have both negative and positive connotations depending on context. The villagers accused her of being a witch because of her mysterious herbs and potions
wizard	Refers to a person, often male, who practices magic through study and learning. Commonly used in fantasy genres and can have a more positive or neutral connotation. The wise old wizard lived in a tower filled with magical tomes and artifacts

Examples of usage

The villagers accused the old man of being a warlock and practicing dark magic.
In medieval times, being labeled a warlock could lead to severe punishment.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from Old English 'wǣrloga', meaning 'oathbreaker' or 'deceiver', highlighting a connection to treachery.
In Scottish folklore, 'warlock' often referred to male witches or sorcerers, distinct from the more neutral term 'wizard'.
Historically, 'warlock' was sometimes used to describe a male who had made a pact with malevolent spirits.

Pop Culture

Warlocks are commonly featured in fantasy literature, video games, and movies, often depicted as rivals to wizards or sorceress figures.
In popular media, such as the TV show 'Charmed', warlocks are portrayed with both good and evil traits, blurring the distinction.
The famous role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons has its own distinct version of warlocks with unique abilities related to their patrons.

Folklore

In various traditions, warlocks are often seen as individuals who can summon spirits or manipulate the natural elements.
Folklore from different cultures may see warlocks as male witches, with varied roles from protectors of the community to harmful tricksters.
Some cultures believe warlocks can heal or curse individuals, adding a layer of complexity to their character beyond mere evil.

Psychology

The archetype of the warlock can represent the struggle between good and evil, exploring themes of power and responsibility.
In literary analysis, warlocks often symbolize the fear of the unknown and the consequences of seeking power through forbidden means.
Warlocks can also reflect societal views of masculinity, showcasing traits like strength, cunning, and sometimes, betrayal.

Literature

In Shakespeare's 'Macbeth', the characterization of witches feeds into the warlock archetype, illustrating the fear and fascination with magic.
The warlock figure appears in various fantasy novels, such as ‘The Black Company’ series, where they play pivotal roles in shaping the plot.
'Warlock' is also featured as a character type in Arthurian legends, often portrayed as an antagonist to noble knights.

Translations

Translations of the word "warlock" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bruxo

🇮🇳 जादूगर

🇩🇪 Hexenmeister

🇮🇩 penyihir

🇺🇦 чаклун

🇵🇱 czarodziej

🇯🇵 魔法使い (まほうつかい)

🇫🇷 sorcier

🇪🇸 hechicero

🇹🇷 büyücü

🇰🇷 마법사

🇸🇦 ساحر

🇨🇿 čaroděj

🇸🇰 čarodejník

🇨🇳 术士

🇸🇮 čarovnik

🇮🇸 galdramaður

🇰🇿 сиқыршы

🇬🇪 ჯადოქარი

🇦🇿 cadugər

🇲🇽 hechicero

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,856 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
34853 pinafore
34854 gnomic
34855 chignon
34856 warlock
34857 carouse
34858 eclogue
34859 jovially
...