Wizard Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🧙
wizard
[ˈwɪzərd ]
Definitions
fantasy
A wizard is a person who has magical powers, often depicted in fantasy literature and movies as wearing robes and casting spells.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| wizard |
Typically used to describe a male character with extensive knowledge and magical powers, often wise and old. Common in fantasy literature and games.
|
| sorcerer |
Describes someone who practices dark or forbidden magic. This term is often associated with negative connotations and used in a sinister context in fantasy stories.
|
| magician |
Generally refers to a performer who uses sleight of hand and illusions to entertain people. Can also refer to a person with magical powers, but more often in a non-fantasy context.
|
| warlock |
Typically refers to a male witch or a person who practices witchcraft, often considered more malevolent than a wizard. It carries somewhat negative implications.
|
Examples of usage
- The wizard used his powers to defeat the dragon.
- The young wizard was still learning how to control his magic.
computing
In computing, a wizard is a software program or feature that guides the user through a series of steps to complete a task.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| wizard |
Often used to describe a magical character in stories or a software tool that simplifies complex processes.
|
| guide |
Used when referring to a person who shows the way or explains things, or a document that provides information.
|
| assistant |
Refers to someone or something that helps with tasks or provides support.
|
| tutorial |
Describes a lesson or series of lessons that provide step-by-step instructions on how to do something.
|
Examples of usage
- The installation wizard helped me set up the new software.
- The user interface includes a configuration wizard for easy setup.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- Famous fictional wizards include Merlin from Arthurian legend and Gandalf from J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings.'
- The character Harry Potter, created by J.K. Rowling, has popularized the idea of the young wizard in modern literature.
Mythology
- Many cultures depict wizards or magician-like figures as powerful beings who can control elements or even fate.
- In some African folklore, certain characters have wizard-like abilities then serve as both healers and protectors.
Science Fiction and Fantasy
- Wizards often possess knowledge of ancient texts and spells in fantasy literature, emphasizing the link to intellectualism and mystique.
- In gaming, wizards are a common playable class featuring magical abilities, creating strategic elements in gameplay.
Education
- The portrayal of wizards in education often symbolizes the quest for knowledge and the desire to explore the unknown.
- In many children's stories, wizards serve as mentors, teaching young characters about courage and wisdom.
Origin of 'wizard'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle English term 'wysard,' meaning wise, showing a connection between wisdom and magic.
- In Old English, 'wicca' referred to a male witch, and 'wicce' to a female witch, evolving into the modern use of the term wizard.
The word 'wizard' originated in the 15th century and comes from the Middle English 'wysard', which in turn is derived from the Old English 'wīs', meaning 'wise', and the suffix '-ard', denoting a person. Over time, the term evolved to refer to someone with magical powers or exceptional skill in a particular field.
See also: wiz.