Demon
/ˈdiː.mən/noun
An evil spirit or supernatural being.
Did you know?In ancient Greece, 'daimon' referred to guiding spirits, not inherently evil beings, revealing a shift in perception over centuries.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
δαίμων
“A spirit or divine power, often guiding or influencing human behavior.”
Late Latin
Latin
daemon
“An intermediary spirit, often viewed as either good or evil.”
Old French
Old French
demone
“A malevolent spirit or evil being.”
Middle English
English
demon
“An evil spirit, often associated with hell and malevolence.”
Modern English
English
demon
“A supernatural being often considered to be malevolent or evil.”
Explore more surprising origins